Light Over Kitchen Sink: A Detailed Guide 2024

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Many lighting fixtures have likely been used to illuminate your kitchen, from the island, and cabinets to the countertops. However, what about your sink? Have you contemplated putting a light over kitchen sink? While ambient and natural illumination generally suffice, a good light fixture is still required over the sink.

To begin with, the sink handles the bulk of all kitchen chores, including dirty dishes, meal bowls, cooking spatulas, and other items.

Additionally, a beautiful lighting fixture installed over the sink will add to the overall aesthetic of your kitchen and make a good impression. This is a sign to make things right and use your kitchen sink to its full potential.

What type of light fixture over kitchen sink?

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Below are kitchen sink lighting ideas to consider.

Wall sconces

Wall sconces 1

Wall sconces are yet another kitchen sink lighting option for introducing elegance and visual appeal into your kitchen space, as they offer both functionality and style. You can simply choose a wall sconce that matches your kitchen’s decor because these space-saving fixtures are available in a broad variety of shapes, sizes, and finishes.

Wall sconces 2

The usefulness and elegance of sconce lights are complementary. Wall sconces offer you the flexibility to place your lighting exactly where it is most required to provide the ideal task lighting that will make it easier for you to see what you are doing.

Recessed lighting

Recessed lighting 1

Recessed lighting, commonly known as сan lights, is a fantastic option if you have a small kitchen. The ceiling lights give the kitchen space a soft glow.  They are about six inches wide and circle-shaped.

Recessed lighting 2

Recessed lighting is a suitable option if you’re searching for subtle and ambient light. Even though recessed lights give off a soft glow, these downlights are powerful enough to lighten the area above the sink for your day-to-day kitchen chores. 

Pendant lights

Pendant lights1

Regardless of where your kitchen sink is located, pendant lights, sometimes referred to as pendant lamps, are a great option. The downlights add a certain charm to the space while also being useful for chores like dishwashing.

There are different pendant lamps available in a variety of colors, forms, and materials. Endeavor to make an effort to match your pendants to your drawer knobs, stainless steel appliances, cupboards, countertops, and/or faucets.

Consider choosing a light fixture made of iron or one with black accents if, for example, your cabinets are white and your drawer pulls are black. A glass pendant light with gold accents would look lovely if your drawer knobs are gold and your counters are white.

You have a lot of freedom for creativity and experimentation when using pendant lights. Low-hanging pendant lights may act as a fantastic focal point and add visual flair to your kitchen.

Pendant lights 2

I suggest hanging your pendant lights 33 to 38 inches above your kitchen counter or sink area to get the most elegant appearance.

Flush mount lights

Flush mount lights

Flush mount lighting is perfect for a visually appealing look. They serve their purpose while not taking up excessive space. They can safeguard against overpowering lighting despite being more conventional compared to pendant lights. You may even install a dimmer switch to adjust the brightness of the sink lights to your preferences

Flush mount lights 2

Flush mounts are the best option for over-the-sink lighting when your ceiling is low. You may choose the best style to match your kitchen design without going over budget because these generally inexpensive lights are available in several forms and sizes.

Things to consider when purchasing light fixtures

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Keep the following in mind before deciding on kitchen lighting options.

Sizing is important

When installing fixtures over your sink, make sure the light hangs between 30 and 40 inches above the counter. You should follow this rule regardless of the size of your kitchen sink. You should also consider the sink area’s height, style, and size about each other. Otherwise, you won’t achieve the proper fit, which can undermine the overhead fixture’s original purpose.

Sizing is important

Therefore, either ask appropriate questions or let an expert handle it.

Prioritize water-safe and rust-resistant light fixtures

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Regular lighting shouldn’t be installed over the sink since they’ll be in constant contact with water.

Fortunately, you can get sink lighting made to withstand water exposure. For example, certain light fixtures include powder coating to lessen the damage caused by moisture and prevent rust. These fixtures retain their quality for a very long time, unlike regular sink lighting, which rusts the moment they are exposed to water. Therefore, bear this in mind when purchasing kitchen sink lighting.

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FAQ

What type of light is best over a sink?

Choosing the ideal over-the-sink kitchen lighting depends on a variety of factors overall. Kitchen lighting may make a significant difference not only in terms of usefulness but also in terms of the overall appearance of your kitchen area.

The following are the most suitable kitchen sink lighting.

Soft white

They offer the same pleasant, yellow glow as incandescent bulbs. This kind of light bulb is an excellent choice for mood lighting and is also ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and other places where you frequently unwind. The 40–60 watt bulbs produce adequate illumination. These light bulbs are easily a favorite since they appear the most natural in a household setting.

Warm white

They are among the most commonly used kinds of lighting in homes. They produce a yellowish-white glow that is ideal for making an area feel cozier, inviting, and appealing. these bulbs are usually used in, kitchens, bathrooms, and dining rooms. If you need a little bit more light, warm white bulbs between 3000 and 4000K are the best choice because they are brighter than soft whites.

Bright white

They add soft blue and white hues to the kitchen space. Other ideal places for these lights are working areas such as a home office or the garage since they still offer a nice, tranquil ambiance while also having an active feel to them.

Daylight-colored bulbs

They produce a bluish tone that enhances color contrast. These lights are perfect for washing, reading, working, and even doing makeup since they keep you focused and attentive.

Should there be a light over kitchen sink?

To make your kitchen as functional as possible when designing and renovating it, you must consider several factors. Task lights should be positioned correctly, island lights should be selected wisely, and accent lights should be accurately set.
You will undoubtedly require lighting to illuminate your kitchen sink if it is in a corner and there isn’t a window there.

Where do you put pendant lights over a sink?

The usage of pendant lights over sinks is incredible since they simply provide task lighting and add decoration to the room. It is crucial to choose the best spot for a pendant light and to position it so that it is proportionate to the sink.

Generally speaking, it is ideal to hang the pendant light between 28-34 inches over the sink. This height usually feels comfortable and guarantees good kitchen sink lighting. Furthermore, it’s critical to check that the pendant light is hung in an area where it won’t prevent cabinet doors from closing.

The pendant light may be hung higher in a kitchen with a very tall sink, but it’s vital to watch that it doesn’t become too high because that could make the user experience an uncomfortable glare.

Furthermore, to create a balanced appearance, it is crucial to ensure the pendant light is hung in the center over the sink. This also guarantees that the room has a good aesthetic appearance.

How about an island sink? Choose pendant lights that hang 12 to 20 inches below an eight-foot ceiling if you’re hanging them above an island sink.

How far should a light switch be from the sink?

The maximum distance from the sink to a light switch should be 2 feet in either direction.

Are recessed lights old-fashioned?

The recessed lighting isn’t out of date. In reality, it is still a common and classic lighting option. It can be used to create a soft, comfortable touch in addition to lighting up the sink area space. It works best in compact spaces because it typically has a low profile.

Furthermore, the range of bulb choices currently offered, including LED lights, makes the effectiveness of recessed lighting even more appealing. Overall, recessed lighting is a cost-efficient yet effective option for kitchen lighting, making it a smart decision.

What is the most ideal light temperature over a kitchen sink?

4000k is the Kelvin temperature that is most frequently used in kitchens. Therefore, a light temperature of less than 3500k would be ideal for usage above a kitchen sink.

Are LED lights suitable for kitchens?

Yes, LED lighting is a great option for a kitchen. They are energy-saving, durable, and incredibly versatile. They are an excellent tool for changing the lighting in your kitchen because they are available in a wide range of designs, shades, and intensities.

In addition to providing brighter light for tasks and accent lighting in workstations, LEDs may be used to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere in living spaces. Furthermore, LEDs provide automated and remote options for lighting, enabling comfort and simplicity in your kitchen.

LED lighting is a fantastic investment for kitchen lighting.

Conclusion

There are various alternatives available for installing light over your kitchen sink. Several homeowners pay too little attention to the lighting design around their kitchen sinks.

Natural light from the window is a simple way to increase the amount of light in your kitchen. However, your modern farmhouse kitchen, for instance, needs adequate lighting once the sun has set. And this is where adding a sink light fixture or undercabinet lighting, could be beneficial. Install a dimmer switch in your farmhouse kitchen if you worry there may be an excessive amount of lighting.

Interior design is about you and your personality, as we’ve already stated. However, the requirement for adequate illumination in your kitchen space cannot be disputed. Opt for a rich visual texture when planning your kitchen setup.

The fixture should blend well with the rest of the kitchen’s decor in terms of overall appearance. A pendant light with a sleek, contemporary style is popular among buyers. Fixtures with a brass or bronze finish are good options if you’re looking to add a touch of luxury.

 If you’re seeking something a bit bright and more conventional, consider a task light with a built-in shade or go with a fixture that has multiple bulbs that complement the other decor in the kitchen.

I hope this guide is of immense help to you.

Randy

I am an electrician since 2003. As someone who’s worked in the Electrical industry, I have had the pleasure of speaking to thousands of lighting users over the years. I made lot of indoor and outdoor projects.

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