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How to design a kitchen lighting plan

A bright, modern kitchen with natural sunlight features light wood cabinetry, a large island with white countertops, and a window

Overview

The kitchen isn’t just where meals are made - it’s a hub of activity for everything from family catch-ups to schoolwork and even working from home. That’s why a well-thought-out lighting plan is essential. The key to great kitchen lighting design is layering different types of light to suit how you use the space throughout the day. Whether you’re renovating or updating kitchen lighting, here’s how to create a lighting plan that’s practical, stylish and flexible.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

  1. 1

    Start with a plan

    Before choosing kitchen light fittings, take the time to map out your kitchen. A bit of planning up front can save you time, money and hassle later. Use graph paper or a simple floor planner app to sketch the layout. Include all key features - kitchen benchtops, the island, major appliances, sink, doors, windows and power points. This gives you a clear, top-down view of how your kitchen flows and helps you work out where different lighting types will be most effective.

    A person is making a sketch of a kitchen layout on paper using a ruler and pen
  2. 2

    Map your general lighting

    General lighting is your base layer. It’s the one that gives the whole room its overall brightness. Downlights are a reliable choice for most kitchens because they spread light evenly across the space. When positioning downlights, avoid placing them only in the centre of the ceiling. Instead, make sure they’re spaced to provide light over benchtops, walkways and corners so the whole kitchen is well-lit and shadow-free.

    A person uses 3D kitchen design software to create a general lighting plan.
  3. 3

    Highlight your task zones

    Next, take a look at the main work zones in your kitchen. These include the sink, cooktop, food prep areas and any other space where you regularly focus on tasks, like doing homework or working from home. These areas need more concentrated lighting that helps you see clearly and work safely. LED strip lights installed underneath overhead cupboards are ideal. They’re sleek, energy-efficient and shine light directly onto your benchtops without casting shadows. For island benches, consider directional downlights or adjustable fittings that can be angled to focus light exactly where you need it. This is especially useful in larger kitchens or open-plan layouts.

    A person holds a box of energy- efficient LED strip light in warm white, designed for indoor use.
  4. 4

    Add accent lighting

    Accent lighting is where you can inject some personality into your space and highlight your favourite features. Pendant lights over the island, dining table or breakfast bar create a stylish focal point and help define different zones within an open-plan space. You can also use LED strip lighting inside glass-front cabinets or under the kitchen island to create a floating effect. These touches not only improve visibility but also add ambience and depth to your design.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: We have a selection of battery-operated sensor lights that you can install yourself.
    A pendant light hangs over a wooden dining table with vases, complemented by soft wall lighting and a colorful portrait for visual interest.
  5. 5

    Set up lighting control

    To get the most from your kitchen lighting plan, it’s important to set up your switches so you can control each lighting layer independently. Having separate switches for general, task and accent lighting gives you more flexibility throughout the day. Adding dimmers can help you adjust brightness levels to match your mood or activity. From prepping dinner to entertaining guests. If you’re after even more convenience, consider installing a smart lighting system. This allows you to create presets or “scenes” for different times of day or tasks, all adjustable from your phone or smart device.
    To make your kitchen lighting more flexible, use different switches for main lights, work lights, and feature lights
  6. 6

    Make the most of natural light

    Don’t overlook the power of daylight. If you’re renovating or building new, consider ways to bring more natural light into your kitchen. Enlarging a window or installing a skylight can dramatically brighten the space during the day and reduce your reliance on artificial lighting. Taking advantage of daylight not only improves energy efficiency but also creates a more pleasant environment to cook, work and relax in.

     

    A bright kitchen with natural sunlight features wood cabinets, a gold faucet, a large window, and a clean white countertop with decorative items.
  7. 7

    Choose safe and suitable fittings

    Finally, make sure all your light fittings are appropriate for use in a kitchen environment. Areas near heat, steam or moisture require fittings that are rated for safety in those conditions. If you’re ever unsure which fittings to use or how to install them, it’s best to call in a licensed electrician. Professional advice can help you get the safest and most effective result.

     

    : A modern kitchen with light wood cabinets, a large island, and a window over the sink that lets in natural light, complemented by kitchen-suitable lighting fixtures.
  8. 8

    Now that you’ve designed your kitchen lighting plan

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.