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Lighting Design Dilemma

kitchen lighting problem

4 years ago

The kitchen in my 100 year old home has cabinets and stove in the area where the original pantry stood. This area is slightly framed in on the top and sides. There are two pendant lights over the counter which are sufficient for task lighting in that space. The remaining portion of the room is an eat-in kitchen with more cabinetry. That area is approximately 10 x 11. The ceiling light is set in the center that space. This entire space is dependent on lighting from the center fixture. The table is up against a wall. The center of the table is about 3 feet from the center of the fixture. I understand the light fixture should be centered over the table. If I swag the center fixture over the table, then I'm concerned the rest of the kitchen will not have sufficient lighting. I use the table for tasks as well. What is the best option in order to have good lighting in the whole kitchen?

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Comments (3)

PRO
Build Beautiful
4 years ago
Hi J T,

The more intrusive option is to add ceiling lights - that'd require and electrician for anothet switch, a handyman for the ceiling patch and paint.

The easiest solution (maybe I'm missing something) is to move the table, not swag the light.

The middle-est solution could be to get a small task lamp for the table.

Another middle solution could be to swag the lamp, and possibly do a floor lamp in the opposite corner - or add some art on the opposite wall and do an wall mounted art lamp above so the space isn't too dark.

Hope that helps,
-frank
https://www.buildbeautifulhomes.com/
PRO
Lights Online
4 years ago
I agree with Build Beautiful that if you can move the table so it is centered under the light, that would be best. If the table is immovable for whatever reason, swag the light but look for one that will provide lots of illumination.

A while ago, I helped my mom purchase a new light for her dining area. It actually needed to be swagged because of the placement of things in her home, so I picked out this one, the Savoy House Grove, since it uses chain along with a small bit of downrod.

It uses 3 lights and gives off LOTS of bright illumination--sometimes she dims it, but sometimes she uses it at 100% brightness.

Something like that, with an opaque shade so you don't have to worry about glare from the bulbs, could be a great idea for you if you're looking for a new fixture.

I can offer more item recommendations if you are interested. Let me know!
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apple_pie_order
4 years ago
Have an electrician add a light over the table with a new junction box. You need the central fixture where it is. If current budget doesn't stretch to electrical work, buy a new hanging lamp with a cord that you can plug in a wall outlet, then put the hook for the swag directly over the table.

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