How Many Lumens Does Your Kitchen Need: The Ultimate Lighting Guide

Kitchen lighting is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also of practicality. The right amount of light can completely transform a space, making it more functional, pleasant and safe for everyday activities. In this guide, we will help you understand how many lumens your kitchen needs, which types of lighting are ideal and how to combine them correctly.

What are Lumens and why are they important?

Lumens are the unit of measurement for the brightness produced by a lamp or fixture . The more lumens, the brighter the light. They should not be confused with watts, which indicate power consumption and not the amount of light.

When choosing kitchen lighting , choosing based on lumens is crucial, as this space requires strong and targeted lighting for safe and comfortable cooking.

How Many Lumens Does Your Kitchen Need?

The general recommendation for kitchen lighting is around 3,000 to 8,000 lumens total, depending on the size and layout of the space. This number includes both general lighting and ergonomic task lighting (e.g. above counters or islands).

For example:

• Small kitchens can operate with around 3,000-4,000 lumens.
• Medium kitchens need 4,000-6,000 lumens.
• Larger or open plan kitchens may need 6,000-8,000 lumens or more.

Types of Lighting You Should Combine in the Kitchen

Ideal kitchen lighting does not come from a single light fixture . Instead, it requires a combination of different light sources:

1. Ambient Lighting

It is the main light source in the space. It usually comes from ceiling lights or spotlights . Here, enough lumens are required to evenly illuminate the entire kitchen .

2. Task Lighting

It is the targeted lighting above countertops, stoves or sinks. It is recommended to use under-cabinet lights or spotlights , which add an additional 700 to 1,200 lumens per surface.

3. Decorative Lighting (Accent Lighting)

It is used to highlight decorative elements or create atmosphere. It does not require many lumens, but plays an important role in the overall feel of the space.

Color Temperature: How "Warm" Should Light Be?

For the kitchen , we recommend a neutral to cool light temperature, i.e. 3,000K to 4,000K (Kelvin). This ensures a clean and pleasant light that helps you concentrate while preparing food.

Practical Tips for Choosing Lighting Fixtures

• Choose high-quality LED bulbs for maximum brightness with low consumption.
• Don't rely on a single centerpiece . Proper design includes layered lighting.
• Consider the location of cabinets : shady spots need additional lighting .
• If you have an island, prefer column or pendant lights for ergonomics and style.

Conclusion

Choosing the right number of lumens for your kitchen is not a simple task, but an important step in creating a comfortable, functional and aesthetically beautiful space. Calculate your needs based on the size of the space, its use, and your aesthetic.

If you are looking for kitchen lighting that combines performance, design and quality, check out our collection and renew your space in the smartest and most stylish way.