The breakfast bar is a staple feature of modern homes. Gone are the days of the formal dining room being the only space to eat in a home. Today, families prefer the coziness and practicality of a breakfast bar, especially in open-plan living spaces. The breakfast bar is a place to gather, enjoy a meal, and catch up on the day’s news before heading out. However, just like any other room of the house, the breakfast bar must be well-lit, inviting, and practical. This is where breakfast bar lighting comes into play. In this article, we explore how to make the most out of your breakfast bar’s lighting.
First, it’s essential to understand the functions of your breakfast bar. Besides being a space to eat, it’s also a place where people gather to chat, have a drink, or to do some work. Therefore, your lighting should accommodate these functions. Light fixtures over the breakfast bar should be warm, welcoming, and practical. Ideally, there should be a combination of practical and ambient lighting that can be controlled independently.
To make sure that your breakfast bar lighting matches the style of your kitchen, numerous designs are available on the market. From sleek and modern, to rustic and cozy, there is a design for every taste. Pendant lights are a popular choice when it comes to breakfast bar lighting. These lights have adjustable lengths, making them an ideal option for varying ceiling heights. They also provide ambient lighting that can be easily adjusted to suit different needs. The best part is that they come in a variety of styles, from classic to contemporary, so you are sure to find the perfect design for your space.
Another option for breakfast bar lighting is downlights. These lights are perfect for minimalist, clutter-free spaces. They run along the ceiling but do not intrude on the visual field. They create an even, ambient light when used in conjunction with dimmer switches to control light intensity. Downlights are also ideal for those who prefer a no-fuss approach to lighting.
If you enjoy entertaining and want to add a bit of drama to your breakfast bar lighting, why not try incorporating some chandeliers? A chandelier may look like something from a bygone era, but when done right, it can bring a dash of glamour and sophistication to any space. A chandelier can also be used as a statement piece, adding a focal point to the breakfast bar area.
When choosing your breakfast bar lighting, it’s always important to take into account the height of your ceiling. Higher ceilings require larger light fixtures than lower ones to avoid making the space look empty and unsupported. In rooms that are nine feet or higher, hang the fixture so its lower edge is about 75 to 85 inches from the floor. This will create a more intimate atmosphere. When ceilings are lower, use smaller fixtures to avoid overwhelming the space.
Another factor to consider is the color scheme of your kitchen. Breakfast bar lighting should complement the existing palette, rather than clash with it. Warm colors such as white or soft gold are great options for most kitchens.
One thing to avoid is overly bright or harsh lighting. Bright, unflattering lighting can ruin the ambiance and make it uncomfortable for people to sit and relax. If you feel the need for brighter lighting, use a dimmer switch so that you can easily adjust to the desired level of brightness. Choose bulbs that have a warmer, yellower color to them, as harsher, bluer tones can lead to eye strain over time.
In conclusion, breakfast bar lighting is essential in creating a welcoming and practical space for yourself and your guests. Pendants, downlights, and chandeliers are all great options, depending on your style and needs. The color palette of the kitchen should dictate your lighting choices, while brighter bulbs should be avoided in favor of warm, cozy ones. By taking these factors into account, you will undoubtedly create a breakfast bar area that you adore and one that your guests will admire for years to come.
Incorporate Style and Functionality: breakfast bar lighting Ideas