The main contributing factors to a lack of light in a kitchen are low ceilings, thick uneven walls, light marauding surfaces and imposing architectural features. Often in older properties windows can be small and some even removed entirely (see window tax).
If you can’t add more openings or knock down walls all is not lost, here are some useful tips from the Papilio kitchens designers that will light up your life!
As a bespoke kitchen company based in rural Somerset, we have worked on many barn conversions and a great way to increase space and light in these types of properties is to open up the ceiling exposing the eaves.
In the ‘Marble Kitchen’ pictured above the entire space was painted white which increased the light in the room dramatically. Enhanced by a Rako lighting system and light refracting surfaces.
Plan to Succeed– The Papilio kitchens designers always start with a detailed lighting plan marking out main, task and ambient (decorative) light requirements from the outset as old properties are notoriously tricky to retro fit wiring and services.
Getting the lighting plan in at the beginning of a project is as vital as the kitchen layout. A good Bespoke Kitchen Company will be talking about lighting and usage of light as in a task driven space this is a huge factor on the end result.
Perfect Placement– As a rule its good to place task areas at the source of natural light. Prep areas and tea stations would be better by a window for instance. Furniture needs to be considered to ensure light is unobstructed by tall imposing cabinetry.
In some instances openings can be increased, the Papilio kitchens designers recently worked on a project in which the old windows had been removed and replaced with crittal which is a much more delicate frame and therefore increases the amount of light in a space.
It’s all Material–Hard matt surfaces are multi-faceted and can actually bounce the light around a room more effectively than super shiny which can create glare. Marble and quarts are great surface choices as is stainless steel.
A good kitchens designer will be able to identify the best surface for your space, there are some fantastic options out there and more new materials available all the time, Corian and Neolith in particular have a range of finishes that will do the job.
Colour up– As usual colour can play a big part so keep it light on walls if furniture is dark and vice versa. Textured finishes and dark colours will absorb light, it’s important to have a balance.
Using reflective splash backs such as antique mirrors also helps in maximizing the light you have in a space. A good bespoke kitchen company will assist you in all aspects of your kitchen design including complimentary wall colours and interior design.
