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Properly lighting your kitchen is essential for creating a functional and pleasant space. But how do you determine the ideal amount of light? As an interior design specialist, I know that calculating lumens per square meter is essential for optimal lighting. Throughout this article, I'll guide you through the different aspects to consider to perfectly illuminate your kitchen.
Understanding lighting concepts for your kitchen
Before diving into the calculations, it's important to understand the units of measurement used in lighting. Lumens represent the total amount of light emitted by a light source, while lux measures the light intensity per square meter. These two units are closely related and essential for determining the proper lighting for your kitchen.
For a well-lit kitchen, it is generally recommended:
- 200 to 300 lux for general lighting
- 300 to 500 lux for work surfaces and preparation areas
- 35 lumens per square foot (approximately 380 lumens/m²) for overall ambiance
- 70 lumens per square foot (approximately 750 lumens/m²) for workspaces
Color temperature also plays an important role in the atmosphere of your kitchen. I generally recommend a temperature between 3000 and 4000K, which corresponds to a warm to neutral white, ideal for creating a welcoming atmosphere while still allowing good visibility.
Calculating the lumens needed for your kitchen space
To determine the amount of lumens you need, use this simple formula: lumens = lux x area in m² . For example, for a 15 m² kitchen with 300 lux of general lighting, the calculation would be: 300 lux x 15 m² = 4500 lumens total.
Here is a summary table of lumen requirements for different areas of your kitchen:
| Area | Recommended lumens |
|---|---|
| General lighting | 3000 - 5500 lumens |
| Above the sink | 500 - 700 lumens |
| Above the stove | 700 - 900 lumens |
| Kitchen island | 800 - 1000 lumens |
Keep in mind that these numbers are general recommendations. You may need to adjust them based on your specific needs and kitchen layout.
Optimizing your kitchen lighting: practical advice
As a home design writer, I know there's more to good lighting than just numbers. Here are some tips for optimizing the illumination in your kitchen space:
1. Multiply your light sources : Combine general, task, and ambient lighting to create a versatile kitchen. For example, use a kitchen ceiling light for general lighting, directional spotlights for work areas, and LED strips under the cabinets for a touch of ambiance. If you have an open-plan kitchen, you can also install a ceiling light for the dining area .
2. Use dimmer switches : Install dimmer switches to adjust the brightness based on your activity. This is especially useful for transitioning from intense cooking to a more intimate dinner party.
3. Consider surfaces : The color of your walls and surfaces influences light reflection. Light surfaces reflect more light, potentially requiring fewer lumens, while dark surfaces absorb more.
4. Under-cabinet lighting : Don't forget to illuminate the worktop under wall units. LED strips with 200 to 500 lumens per meter are ideal for this application.
5. Respect safety standards : For luminaires near water points, choose an ingress protection (IP) rating of at least 4 or 5 to ensure electrical safety.
Tips for a bright and functional kitchen
Over my years of experience in interior design, I have noticed that certain tricks can really make a difference in kitchen lighting:
Lighting Positioning : The height of lighting fixtures above a table or island should be 60-70 cm for optimal glare-free lighting. This rule, established by lighting experts, helps create a pleasant atmosphere while ensuring good visibility.
Accent lighting : Don't hesitate to add point light sources. Lighting with 500-700 lumens over the sink will make washing dishes easier, while 700-900 lumens over the stove will improve your comfort during meal preparation.
Play with color temperatures : While I generally recommend a temperature of 3000-4000K for the kitchen, feel free to vary depending on the area. Cooler lighting (4000-5000K) can be beneficial for work areas, while warmer light (2700-3000K) will create a cozy ambiance for dining.
By applying these principles, you'll create a kitchen space that's both functional and enjoyable. Remember, the perfect lighting is one that fits your needs and lifestyle. Feel free to experiment and adjust until you find the perfect combination for your kitchen.
Also find out how to calculate the number of lumens per m2 required per room :
