Lighting Tips from Pros

Lighting Tips from Pros


My kitchen renovation includes an island with a main sink on one side and barstools on the other side. Should we center the pendants on the center of the island or move them more toward the sink?

In most applications where pendants are placed above islands, it is more common to place the pendants in a symmetrical configuration centered directly on both the long and short sides. However, this is ultimately a personal decision that is dependent on your priorities and on the visual relationship of the pendants to the space.

If the island is going to be used for reading or working, then placing the pendants closer to the bar stools will be useful. However, if persons seated at the island will be there mostly for eating and conversation, it will be less important to move the pendants closer to the seating.

What kinds of bulbs can be used in the recessed can lights in my kitchen? My electrician says I must only use Halogen bulbs (50 watts max), and others tell me I can use any bulbs, including LEDs.

There are LED bulbs that are designed to be replacements for halogen bulbs. It is fine to use the LED replacement bulbs, because they have very low wattage. As long as you are not exceeding the 50-watt limit of your fixtures, it is fine to install LEDs. To see the best LED replacement bulbs, you should take one of your existing bulbs to a lighting professional at your local ALA-member lighting showroom.