The main elements of kitchen lighting design are as follows: task, ambient and decorative/accent lighting. You should aim as a minimum to put each of these sets on its own circuit so the various elements can be individually controlled and combined as needed. But use as main separate switches as needed, so if for example you need task lighting in three separate areas then have three switches.
Let’s look at each of these categories in turn, starting with task lighting. Kitchens are potentially dangerous places with hot materials, sharp instruments and the need to check the quality of foodstuffs. Bright, focused light that doesn’t cause shadows is a must. The best form of task lighting is always slightly in front of you, directly above where you’re working and not shining in your eyes. The ideal candidate is most cases is therefore under cabinet lighting (and for preference LED cabinet lighting since this stays cool and costs next to nothing to leave on for long periods).
Ambient lighting is what provides the overall background light level. Without it the other lights stand out too much and create pools of bright illumination that contrast heavily with surrounding dark spots. In a kitchen the best form of ambient light is provided by down lights, usually recessed into the ceiling to reduce direct glare from the light source. Of all lighting types it is most important to put these on dimmer switches to control the ambient level.
Decorative and accent lighting is used to add interest and show off particular features. Low heat LED spotlights and strip lights are effective here as they can be easily installed just about anywhere and positioned very close to objects or even set into surfaces.
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