Stylish & Practical Ideas for Above-the-Kitchen-Sink Lighting
Illuminate your kitchen sink.
Your kitchen should be a welcoming space where loved ones can gather together while preparing food, eating meals, or enjoying some casual conversation. One of the fastest and easiest ways to introduce a warm and welcoming feeling is by using above-the-kitchen-sink lighting. Not only will one of these budget-friendly additions help create a cozy atmosphere, but they will also help illuminate your food prep and dish-cleaning area. So keep reading to find the inspiration you need to light up your food prep space.
1. Angle Your Lights
In decorating, the practice of grouping objects in odd numbers is used for a visually appealing effect that helps create a sense of balance. This set of three swing-arm wall sconces above the sink does just that. They also help distribute the glow across the entire surface, which is ideal if you prepare your meals in the same area. In this image, their placement also helps emphasize the large window, creating an unobstructed view to the outside.
Another way to keep your above-the-kitchen-sink lighting grouped together is by choosing clustered ceiling lights. They come in an array of designs, ranging from strings that can be draped around mounted bars to asymmetrically hung collections of globes that will create a unique focal point for everyone to enjoy. To learn more about the different types of lighting we have to offer, read Your Ultimate Guide to Types of Lighting for more information.
It's totally possible to select your lighting for both functional and aesthetic purposes. Try establishing a theme to use throughout the kitchen by matching your fixture finishes. Something sleek and sophisticated like gold and white wall sconces can work well to match your cabinet hardware to bring the space together. Go all out with a gilded faucet to fully lean into that metallic theme.
The primary goal of your above-kitchen-sink lighting is practicality, like adding task lighting above prep spaces or more light into the space. This is especially true for a scullery, butler’s pantry, or any type of overflow area from the kitchen. If you are looking for something simple to do the job, a set of small wall sconces will do the trick, easily casting light where you need it.
Do you have cabinets over your sink? Don't worry, you can still add lighting to them. In fact, it's possible you'll need the extra illumination in that space. Under-cabinet lights will provide you with task lighting to help when you are chopping ingredients, washing dishes, or enjoying a cup of coffee. The best part is it won't take up any counter space! To avoid any DIY installation, the most hassle-free options include puck lights or tape lights, which come with adhesive for easy, nonpermanent mounting.
Tip!
Our guide How to Install Under-Cabinet Lighting: Your DIY Guide will give you the step-by-step instructions you need.
Pick a sink light with rustic charm to match your eclectic boho kitchen. An earthy, textured finish on an angular shade fits together nicely with the vibrant green patterned backsplash tiles. There are plenty of unique pendant lights to choose from, so you can opt for a design that best showcases your personality while complementing your decor style.
Speaking of geometry, try a pair of oversized minimalist gold lanterns above your kitchen island. Their streamlined look will add a touch of elegance without being overwhelming – lighting up the counters without blocking the view of anyone sitting on the opposite side (something that is especially helpful if you entertain frequently). In the image above, the linear pendant above the dining table matches the ones installed in the kitchen for a cohesive look that flows from one space to the next.
Recessed lighting allows you to provide a warm ambience throughout the kitchen, particularly if you install dimmers switches too. Dotting the bulbs around the room will help brighten the areas above the sink, stove, and countertop and provide general illumination in the space. You'll have the option to dim them for a more moody feeling (particularly when eating and entertaining) or bring the lights up for cooking and cleaning tasks.
Tip!
Considering adding a dimmer to your lighting? Read How to Install a Dimmer Switch.
A muted white and gray color palette doesn’t mean you should shy away from a little dramatic flair – in fact, you have even more opportunities to include an eye-catching piece over the sink. Stick to a lampshade in a simple white tone but opt for a fluted design for some casual elegance. By picking statement items like the star-patterned tile above but keeping them in neutral hues, allows you to make an impact without overwhelming the space.
Choose a single glass pendant over the sink for a bright and airy look. The clear lampshade won't impede the view through a window or detract from the rest of the kitchen. Instead, the exposed bulb will cast a more diffused glow that softens the space and makes it feel all that more inviting.
Even if your layout keeps your above-the-kitchen-sink lighting from being installed directly overhead, a single light will still be an improvement in brightness. A sleek glass wall sconce spotlight will banish shadows from any dark corners, providing enough illumination for you to perform any necessary tasks you may need.
Pendant lighting is the most common choice for above-the-sink lighting over an island. A set of symmetrical pendant lights will balance the illumination, providing optimal visibility when you are both prepping and entertaining. This image combines a smooth, retro-inspired shape with the varied lines of the herringbone, mosaic, and hexagonal tiles for a striking effect. The different shades of turquoise, navy, and teal combined with orange touches make for a naturally appealing complementary color scheme that turns the kitchen into an alluring gathering spot.
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Picking your above-the-kitchen-sink lightning won't be too hard now you have all this inspiration to go by. So start shopping now to light up your home.
