As the task centre of the home, your kitchen needs lighting that’s spot on. We shine a light on kitchen task lighting, and compare the different options, functionality and looks in contemporary kitchen lighting.

Excellent task lighting that highlights the sink, cooktop, benches and other work areas is essential in good kitchen design – after all, you don’t want to end up seasoning your coffee and sweetening your gravy! Getting kitchen task lighting right also balances the overall level of light so that shadows are reduced and harsh glare is minimised.

Options for task lighting in the kitchen include under-cabinet or shelf lights, downlights, fluorescent lights above the splashback, and spotlights. Overhang lights above the kitchen bench are another alternative that provide good directional light and are available in many different types.

Lighting retailer David Darbinian, says there are a number of ways to achieve good kitchen task lighting. "Recessed halogen downlights and recessed low-voltage, surface-mounted cabinet lights are popular choices," he says. "However, normal halogen downlights aren’t energy efficient, so choose one of the newer versions. New-generation compact fluorescent lamps are very energy efficient and are compatible with low-voltage halogen downlight fittings, making it easy to replace the lamps." Be wary of cheap downlights, as they’re more likely to generate glare. Recessing them 10-15mm into the ceiling will help avoid problems with glare.

As kitchen lights are the most used in a home, energy efficiency is a must. "The new range of LEDs are very energy efficient and last more than 10 years – longer than most people stay in one home," David says. "They can be concealed under kitchen benches or miniature versions can be positioned inside glass cabinets for improved visibility." The kitchen also requires the brightest level of light in the home, so positioning of kitchen lighting is paramount. "Incorrect placement is a common mistake," David says. "For example, if the light source is behind you, your working area will be in a shadow. I recommend that people co-ordinate their cabinet-maker, designer, electrician and builder and work together to design kitchen lighting that’s correctly positioned. Also, remember that installation of kitchen lighting is last in the construction process."

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