Ask Our Designers: Kitchen Lighting

"The phrase 'Let there be light' from Genesis resonates across all forms of design, and it's particularly crucial in the kitchen where tasks like chopping, reading recipes, and plating meals demand optimal illumination. However, there's a lot of confusion about how kitchen lighting functions and its connection to what Laurysen does when designing for clients. To clear up these misconceptions, we reached out to our team of designers to share their insights. They helped distinguish fact from fiction and provided practical tips for effective kitchen lighting design. Here’s what Wael Bakr CKD (Certified Kitchen Designer), Aviva Ben-Choreen CKD, and Sara Edgerton, Design Consultant, had to say. Firstly, there are three distinct types of indoor lighting every kitchen should incorporate: ambient, task, and accent lighting. Ambient lighting creates a general glow throughout the space, task lighting focuses on functional areas like countertops and islands, and accent lighting adds decorative touches by highlighting specific zones. Task lighting is key according to Aviva Ben-Choreen. She emphasizes that it typically starts from the sink area outward since this is the most critical zone for adequate illumination. Task lights positioned beneath cabinets can direct strong beams onto workspaces, ensuring visibility during crucial tasks. While accent lighting, such as within cabinetry or along edges of counters, enhances aesthetics, it plays a secondary role compared to task lighting, which ensures usability. Natural light, though beneficial, shouldn't be relied upon exclusively. As Wael Bakr notes, depending solely on daylight isn't practical in regions like Ottawa where evening cooking is common. Therefore, even the best-placed windows can't replace strategically placed task lights. Color and spatial perception also influence lighting decisions. Smaller kitchens benefit from additional task lighting to create an illusion of greater space. Darker rooms tend to feel cozier, whereas brighter ones appear more expansive—a principle that guides designers in evaluating lighting needs based on kitchen dimensions. Measuring light accurately involves both technical calculations and creative judgment. While experienced designers rely on intuition, precise measurements require tools like lighting tables detailing intensity and color absorption rates. Sara Edgerton humorously acknowledges that achieving exact results involves complex math, blending technical precision with artistic flair. Ultimately, balancing scientific principles with artistic vision allows designers to craft kitchens that seamlessly blend functionality and aesthetics. Neglecting lighting considerations can undermine both the practicality and visual appeal of a kitchen, an oversight easily prevented with thoughtful planning. At the very least, we hope this inspires you to prioritize lighting when envisioning your ideal kitchen. After all, cooking in the dark just isn't feasible!"

Melamine Door

Melamine door is a type of interior door that is made by applying a melamine laminate to a door core. Melamine is a synthetic material that is commonly used as a surface finish for furniture, including doors. Melamine doors are known for their durability, versatility, and ease of maintenance. Here are some key features and benefits of melamine doors:

  1. Durability: Melamine doors are highly durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture. The melamine laminate provides a protective layer that helps to preserve the appearance of the door over time.

  2. Wide range of designs: Melamine doors come in a wide variety of designs, colors, and finishes. They can mimic the look of different materials such as wood, stone, or metallic finishes. This allows for greater design versatility and the ability to match the door to various interior styles.

  3. Easy maintenance: Melamine doors are relatively easy to clean and maintain. The smooth surface of the melamine laminate can be wiped down with a damp cloth or mild cleaning solution to remove dust or dirt. They do not require regular painting or staining.

  4. Cost-effective: Melamine doors are generally more affordable compared to doors made from solid wood or other high-end materials. They offer a cost-effective option for homeowners or builders who want an attractive door at a lower price point.

  5. Resistance to moisture: Melamine doors have good moisture resistance properties, making them suitable for areas with higher humidity, such as bathrooms or laundry rooms. The melamine laminate helps to protect the door core from swelling or warping due to moisture exposure.

  6. Versatility: Melamine doors can be customized to include various features such as glass inserts, grooves, or panels to create different visual effects and match specific design preferences.

It's important to note that melamine doors are primarily designed for interior use and are not suitable for exterior applications where they would be exposed to direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions. Additionally, while melamine doors are resistant to scratches and stains, they may still be susceptible to damage from sharp objects or excessive force. Proper care and maintenance will help ensure the longevity and appearance of melamine doors.

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