Light Up Your Kitchen, Light Up Your Life

Lighting can completely transform the way your kitchen looks and feels. It’s one of the most overlooked yet impactful upgrades you can make—boosting both functionality and style.

Do you struggle to read recipes, help with homework, or even spot crumbs on your counter? Poor lighting could be the culprit. Whether your space feels dim, outdated, or simply uninspiring, updating your kitchen lighting can make a dramatic difference in how your kitchen looks and functions.

Luckily, there are countless lighting options available today—many of which are DIY-friendly, allowing you to save on the cost of hiring an electrician. From energy-efficient LED upgrades and stylish pendant fixtures to easy-install puck lights and under-cabinet strips, there are solutions for every skill level, budget, and design style. Better lighting not only enhances your kitchen’s aesthetic, but also improves visibility, cleanliness, and your overall enjoyment of the space.

Brighten Up Your Home With These Kitchen Lighting Updates

1. Replace Your Overhead Lights

Consider swapping out your current overhead kitchen lights for a fresh look. Older incandescent bulbs do not put out as much light (lumens) as newer forms of light do.  They also tend to use a lot more energy. So, if you have older kitchen lighting, consider replacing it with fixtures that use newer CFL or LED bulbs.

2. Install Task Lighting

Consider adding task lighting if the lighting is dim over the spaces where you work the most. A light over your counter or stove can help you see better when cooking. A light over your sink can help you see better, too. As an added benefit, more light also enables you to keep things cleaner.

3. Use LED Strips or Pucks

If you don’t want to invest in light installation, many fun and easy DIY options are available now. You can buy inexpensive LED strips or Puck Lights that are easy to install. Most of these lights can be installed with adhesive designed to be removable. You can even play with colored lighting to change the mood!

4. Use Reflective Surfaces

Another tip for maximizing the lighting in your kitchen is to use reflective surfaces. Stainless steel appliances reflect more light than white or black appliances. Chrome fixtures are also a good option for maximizing your lighting. You can even hang a mirror instead of art in your kitchen to help reflect light throughout the room. If you're thinking of a total kitchen re-do, consider lighter color cabinetry and counters. Glass subway tile backsplash is also a great way to increase light in the kitchen.

Thinking of Selling?

Thinking of selling your home? Updated, well-planned kitchen lighting can significantly boost your home’s appeal by creating a bright, welcoming atmosphere that attracts buyers. Reach out to our team—we’ll share expert tips on how to light up your kitchen to showcase its best features and help your home stand out on the market.

As a leading Andover realtor, Tom Carroll and his expert team at The Carroll Group at RE/MAX Partners offers exceptional service to help navigate the market with ease to buy or sell your home.