Types of chandeliers for the kitchen. Chandelier for the kitchen: varieties, choice of style and color, real photo examples. How to choose a color

This is primarily modern, hi-tech and minimalism. Distinctive features are a strict color scheme (the absence of colorful colors, etc.), an emphasis on modern artificial materials (glass, metal, plastic), often unusual shapes built on geometric elements. Additional lighting, remote control, motion sensors and some other features can be an additional bonus.

1.2. Classic style

Glass or fabric shades, pendants, brass or gilded frame - these are the most common features of the classics. But often the classics are simplified or diluted with modern elements, so some models can look very eclectic, although they fit perfectly into the classic interior of the kitchen. A truly classic chandelier is quite large, so installing it in a small kitchen will only reduce space.

1.3. Country, Provence

Chandeliers in this style emphasize the general mood of the entire kitchen with the help of wooden and forged elements, the use of aged shades or their absence at all. Instead of plafonds, in this case, decorative light bulbs are installed.

1.4. Tiffany

This style is just beginning to gain popularity. It got its name in honor of the stained glass artist of the same name. Accordingly, the "trick" of this style are ceiling lamps with stained glass decoration.

• It is better to abandon textile lampshades in favor of modern materials - metal, glass, plastic. The benefits of this choice can be appreciated at the first cleaning. If you like wooden chandeliers, then you should pay attention to lacquered or painted models.
• The style of the chandelier should match the entire interior. It is not a subject that should be emphasized, rather, it should complement and complete the entire image. When choosing a color, it is worth remembering a simple rule - no more than three colors in the design. However, this rule does not apply to white - it is universal.
• Dimensions and shape should also not be conspicuous - an overly large lamp will look out of place. In addition, sooner or later it will have to be cleaned - and the more elements there are, the more difficult it will be to clean.

3. Nuances of choice

3.1. Mounting types and location

There are two types of mounting - suspended and ceiling.

Suspended involves placement on chains, cables or other elements, at some distance from the ceiling. Some chandeliers allow you to change the height of the suspension. Hanging chandeliers are usually quite large, so their choice will be more justified for large and spacious rooms.

Ceiling mount involves mounting directly under the ceiling. Such an installation is typical for most modern fixtures, although there are also transitional solutions with a classic design. For a room with low ceilings, it is better to choose a ceiling chandelier. Also, a ceiling chandelier is better than others for a small square kitchen. If the ceiling is suspended, you can even mount a panel for lighting in it.

3.2. Lamps

Today there are 4 types of lamps that are used in the kitchen:

1. LED lamps. Today, this type of lamp can rightly be called the most popular. LED lamps can be presented in the form of a conventional light bulb with a base and in the form of an LED strip. Lamps are characterized by relatively low price, extended service life and low power consumption.

No matter how sophisticated the chandelier is, the cartridge will always be standard, so you can always screw in the lamp you need - incandescent, fluorescent, halogen or LED.

2. Halogen lamps. They are compact in size and have a fairly high brightness. Halogen lamps are most often used for zonal kitchen lighting. There are several varieties of halogen lamps: pendant, spot, wall, recessed, rotary and fixed - this variety allows you to maximize the potential of kitchen lighting.

3. Incandescent lamps. These are all familiar types of lamps, but not the most economical energy consumption and relatively short service life make them not the best choice for lighting the kitchen.

4. Energy saving lamps. Such lamps came into fashion about 5-7 years ago. Pros - low power consumption and bright light. Cons - high cost and long warm-up time. It can take up to two minutes from the moment the light is turned on to bright light.

3.2. Light intensity

The ideal solution for the kitchen is to install a special switch with a light intensity control. It is a small wheel, by turning which the adjustment takes place. Dimmers are convenient for use with any chandelier, regardless of the number of lamps.

If there are two or more light bulbs, you can get by with a conventional separate switch. The most modern and advanced chandeliers can be equipped with a remote control that controls the light: on / off and dimming.

Since the chandelier is the main source of light in the kitchen, it is better to shift the responsibility for creating a pleasant twilight to additional lighting. So, in order for the kitchen to be 10 sq.m. there was enough lighting, the desired total power of incandescent bulbs in the chandelier should be:

• about 120 W for incandescent lamps
• 60 W for halogen lamps
• 30 W for fluorescent
• 25W for energy saving
• 15-20W for LED lamps (LED)

Some models are also equipped with small lamps or diodes for additional illumination. The color of the backlight differs from the normal mode of operation of the chandelier, most often it is blue. It is used, for example, when watching TV - eating and cooking with such lighting, to put it mildly, is inconvenient.

4. Prices

Ceiling or suspension mounts do not affect the cost in any way, but the number of elements is the opposite. The simplest chandelier with one plastic or glass lampshade can be bought for only 15-20 dollars. A metal suspension or other metal elements can instantly raise the cost by $30 or more.

The number of lamps does not directly affect the cost, but each lamp needs a ceiling - and this is another reason to raise the price. The more parts a chandelier consists of, the more expensive it will cost. In general, it is quite realistic for a kitchen to find a chandelier for 20-100 dollars that will satisfy all requests, then the “premium” segment begins, where it is very difficult to follow the pricing logic.

Ceiling chandelier in high-tech style for 8 lamps, total power 320W. The price is about 85 dollars.

Small 2-light ceiling chandelier $25

$90 classic 6-light pendant chandelier

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Spring has come, and many apartment owners have decided to update the interior of their homes. In this regard, many questions arise. What to choose finishing materials? What furniture is suitable for a particular room and how to arrange it correctly? What should be the lighting.

Today we will talk about one of the most visited rooms in any home - the kitchen. More precisely, we will tell you how to choose lamps for the kitchen. Proper lighting of any room in the house is extremely important: it emphasizes the advantages and hides the flaws of the room, divides it into functional areas, and focuses on the necessary details.

So how to choose from a huge number of devices that manufacturers offer today for a kitchen lamp? How many should there be? How to place them correctly so that the kitchen is not only beautiful and cozy, but also functional? We will try to answer these and many other questions in the article.

Rules for choosing fixtures

Choosing a lamp for the kitchen should be based on considerations of its practicality, while not forgetting about its compliance with the overall interior of the room. Before heading to the store, break down your kitchen into functional areas and map out your lighting system. As a rule, the list of all lighting fixtures for the kitchen is as follows:

• ceiling or central lighting (built-in lamps, chandeliers);
• illumination of the dining and working area;
• decorative (LED or spot) lighting around the perimeter of the floor, ceiling, furniture contours.

Based on this, the lamps should be purchased in a certain sequence. First, you need to choose fixtures for the work area, then choose a beautiful chandelier or ceiling lamp for the dining area or bar, and finally, you should think about general lighting and decorative lighting.

Types of lamps for the kitchen

Modern lamps can first of all be divided into groups according to their appearance (wall sconces, chandeliers, built-in models, floor lamps) and according to the type of lamps installed in them. The most familiar to many of us are time-tested incandescent lamps, which are distinguished by a low price, but a rather high level of energy consumption and a short service life. However, many people like their warm, soft, coziness, light.

Halogen lamps are usually used in recessed luminaires that are installed in a false ceiling. Their advantages include long service life, compact size. And of the shortcomings can be called a high price, although it is offset by the long service life of the devices.

Fluorescent lamps are very bright, but do not consume too much power. But they also have a serious drawback - with a voltage drop, as well as with poor contacts, they start flashing.

LED lighting fixtures for the kitchen are used to decorate stretch ceilings. They do not heat up to high temperatures, while they have a long service life. The main advantage of lamps and LED strips is a variety of color options, which allows them to be used to decorate various areas and furniture.

Lights and ceiling decoration

It is important to choose the right fixtures for the ceiling. The kitchen needs a lighting fixture that will be in harmony with the design of the ceiling. It is necessary to take into account not only the design of the room, but also the design of the ceiling and the height of the room. For example, multi-tiered heavy chandeliers are not suitable for a multi-level ceiling - they will only overload the space. It is more expedient in this case to use elegant shades or spotlights. The same applies to too low ceilings.

Do not forget about the overall interior of the kitchen, the design of lighting fixtures also depends on it. Properly selected spotlights visually increase the space. To do this, they are mounted behind the eaves, and the luminous flux is directed to the ceiling.

LED kitchen lighting

LED lamps, often referred to as light-emitting diodes, are a unique type of lighting that allows you to illuminate any part of the kitchen. It is important that the operation of such lighting is safe, since the voltage in LED lamps is much lower than in other types.

It should be noted that LED lamps for the kitchen are durable. Manufacturers claim that with proper installation and operation, they operate smoothly for 10 years. A variety of colors allow you to create a magnificent play of light in the room. Remote control for such lighting is very convenient: it allows you to effortlessly change the colors and shades of the backlight, creating the necessary atmosphere in the room.

Such lamps in the kitchen have a number of undeniable advantages. Among them:

• profitability;
• low heat dissipation (LED lamps are also attractive because they practically do not heat up in working condition);
• small dimensions that allow the use of these lamps to illuminate even the smallest and most secluded areas of the room;
• a large selection of colors and shades, allowing you to realize the most daring ideas in interior design.

Hanging lamps for the kitchen

Today, when decorating the interior of a kitchen, designers are trying to highlight some of its area with the help of lighting fixtures. Manufacturers produce a variety of lamps that can illuminate every part of the room. You can install pendant lights above each work surface.

Pendant lamps for the kitchen (chandeliers, separately hanging ceiling lamps) have the following advantages:

• functionality;
• variety of variations;
• modern design;
• affordable prices.

Ceiling lights

This group of lamps can be used both as the only lighting in the kitchen, and in combination with other lighting fixtures. For example, a lamp on the ceiling in the kitchen (6-8 sq. M) looks quite organic, and for a more spacious room, a few more points of lighting from the ceiling should be added to the central chandelier.

Ceiling lamps for the kitchen can have a wide variety of shapes and designs. It all depends on your imagination, the chosen style of the room, the height of the ceilings. For example, a chandelier or lamp on a long cord would be out of place in a kitchen with low ceilings. In this case, it is more expedient to use flat luminaires, mounted directly on the ceiling.

Traditionally, the interiors used central lamps for the kitchen. Ceiling models today have changed significantly, and they can be selected for any interior. For a spacious kitchen, the choice of ceiling lights is much wider. You can pick up a beautiful chandelier made of glass or crystal (depending on the style of the interior).

It is worth paying attention to the lamps that freely rotate in several directions. In this case, it is not necessary to use stationary lighting fixtures, you can use a tension system and turn the spotlights in the required direction or move them to the right place. The main thing is that such a system does not interfere with free movement around the kitchen and opening all the cabinets.

Overhead lamps

Today, overhead lamps for the kitchen are available in a universal form - a small washer. They can have a wire for connection or batteries, as well as Velcro, a magnet for fastening. This is a kind of backlight. For ease of installation, these lighting fixtures are located between recessed fixtures and LED strip.

Such a lamp for the kitchen is truly universal. Under the cabinets (on the lower walls) they are superimposed to illuminate the work surfaces. In addition, they can be mounted on the inner shelves of cabinets, illuminating their cavities from the inside.

Now you know how to choose the right lamp for the kitchen, it's time to figure out which lighting fixtures are used in certain areas of the room.

Work zone

The kitchen is a room in which additional lighting is not only desirable, it is necessary. And, of course, the work area, which consists of a cooking surface, a stove and a sink, needs it. In this case, lighting solves several problems at once. In addition to the main function, such lighting is one of the decorative elements of the kitchen interior.

Most often, spotlights are used for this, which are built into a multi-level ceiling or into the upper tier of kitchen furniture. Recently, more and more people began to use LED strip, which is much easier to install.

Ordinary lamps can also be used in the work area, but when choosing, you should think about their practicality. Of all the kitchen areas, the work area is the most polluted. Neither the most powerful hood nor the cleanliness of the hostess will save you from accidental splashes of water, fat, crumbs. For this reason, luminaires above the work area should be made of easily washable materials and ideally have at least IP44 protection.

With an island layout of the kitchen, the working area can be illuminated with pendant lights. Today, designers offer to use more original solutions. For example, you can make a kitchen apron from light panels. Consider the option of installing a motion sensor, according to its signal, the light will turn on in the desired area of ​​​​the kitchen.

Dinner Zone

How to choose a lamp for the dining area in the kitchen? The lighting in this part of the room should be softer than the light in other areas. The most common option is a pendant lamp lowered low above the table. A fringed fabric lampshade or more original options that can bring some extravagance to the interior will give a special atmosphere of comfort.

But this option is not suitable if the table is near the wall. In this case, various sconces, floor lamps or table lamps, which are less common in such a room, are used for lighting. It is desirable that the lampshades are dense, in which case they will dim the light well.

If your kitchen has a multi-level ceiling, you can illuminate the dining area with a group of spotlights: in addition to performing their direct function, they will highlight the dining area.

decorative lighting

LED illumination of furniture contours, wall niches, cabinet shelves, ceiling and floor can become an original interior decoration. Such lighting is justified if the room is decorated in dark colors. In addition, use overhead lights that will help create an original interior.

Summing up

As you can see, today it is not difficult to choose lamps for the kitchen. The photos posted in this article will help you choose the right lighting option. It is important to consider that whatever lamp you choose above the eating area, its light should not distort the appearance of the dishes served so that they look natural and appetizing.

is an indispensable condition for a comfortable and safe cooking process. Some require additional illumination of work areas, but most users are not yet ready to give up the central chandelier. It is worth considering in detail all the features of choosing a chandelier for the kitchen.

Peculiarities

Which chandelier design for this room to choose depends on the finished interior solution or the planned design project. According to experts, the style of lighting and its type must be thought out in advance, while the repair in the room has not yet been made. At the same time, it will not work to refuse local lighting even in a small kitchen. You can use recessed spotlights.

This lighting device should provide the necessary flow of light and be an attractive element in the interior, because the hostess spends a lot of time here. It has long been known that the taste of the food depends on the mood of the one who prepares the food.

Important! The light from the chandelier should not be too bright, it can rather be described as warm, not irritating to the eyes.

Also, the kitchen chandelier must be selected based on:

• Kitchen size.
• Room configurations - square or elongated.
• Locations of functional areas.
• Hits of natural light and its volume.

1. Textile lampshades, although they look cozy, beautiful and homely, but it is in this room in the house that it is better to refuse them. Preference - metal, glass, plastic. We need those materials that are easier to care for. Fat and soot, which will certainly be in the kitchen, will settle on different surfaces, including the chandelier, even with the most powerful hood. It is worth taking a closer look at a wooden chandelier, but it should have varnish or paint on it.
2. The style of the device fits into the design of the room. It should not be emphasized, let alone made the main decorative element, the kitchen is a place for cooking and certainly not for the implementation of bold design decisions.
3. When choosing its color, it is worth remembering the golden rule of design - no more than 3 colors in one room.
4. Size and shape. Too large a lamp looks out of place, and caring for it will become a real problem.

Styles

Choosing the right chandelier style for the kitchen is not an easy task, because you need to take into account the key features of the style. The difference between a chandelier and other lighting fixtures is the ceiling mount and the presence of 2 or more lamps.

When choosing, you need to pay attention to the style in which the kitchen set is made, the walls and floor are finished, and do not forget about the dimensions of the room.

Classic chandeliers

This is the case when the classic never goes out of style. A classic chandelier is a pendant lamp that is made from different materials. They are neat, elegant and will be a great addition to any interior.

The popular variety is crystal. The model is voluminous, most often hanging low, so it can only be placed in a large kitchen with high ceilings. In an average kitchen in an apartment, it will look alien.

Expert opinion

Alexey Bartosh

The classic style includes floral chandeliers, which are the most in stores. Floral motifs appear:

1. On plafonds.
2. In other decorative hanging elements.

Modern

Such lighting fixtures differ from the models presented above. They have a non-standard look, sometimes they are even called pretentious and pretentious, and some options are extremely simple, though intricate shapes and combinations. The materials used in the manufacture are different.

There are modern chandeliers, made in a concise version, these are suitable for modern interiors in the style of minimalism.

This is the option when the chandelier becomes the central element of the interior, its highlight. This also includes chandeliers in the style of avant-garde, vintage, creative designer pendants.

Eco

Already by the name it is clear that such models are made of natural, safe, environmentally friendly materials. Often homemade chandeliers are made in such a style. For example, from snags, dry branches, paper, textiles.

Such products are original, but at the same time they are suitable for almost any kitchen, as they emphasize naturalness and naturalness. It's like being close to nature. Even modern style directions are able to "accept" such chandeliers. This combination brings a touch of charm and elegance.

Other styles

Separately, it is necessary to say about such styles:

1. Hi-tech, techno. Ceiling models that seem to come from the world of the future. They are created in strict shapes and colors, a clear geometry of lines can be traced. Materials for them: plastic, glass, metal.

   
   High-tech chandelier

2. Floristics. These are not only models that are presented in a classic style, but also a separate direction. Mandatory elements: flowers, buds, leaves, branches. All this is made of wood, metal, glass, plastic. A suitable solution for a kitchen that is made in the style of Provence, Country, Shabby Chic.

   
   Chandelier with floral motifs

3. Tiffany. These luxurious models are made of glass and contain stained glass elements. It becomes a bright spot in the interior, so the rest of the decoration and furniture will have to be selected specifically for it.

   
   Tiffany style chandelier

4. Loft. It would seem that the simplest chandeliers, because they imitate street lights, but at the same time they are quite expensive. Often you can find artificial aging on them, deliberately rough execution of individual elements. Most often made of metal or high quality plastic.

   
   Retro Chandelier in Loft style

5. Minimalism. It will be possible to characterize with the following words: rigor, a minimum of decor (more often its complete absence), strict geometry, restrained colors.

   
   Ascetic chandelier in the style of minimalism

Types of suitable chandeliers

There are only 2 options for the design of a chandelier for the kitchen - ceiling and pendant.

The peculiarity of ceiling models is that they are attached directly to the ceiling, so they can be successfully used in kitchens with low ceilings, such as in standard panel houses. Ceiling chandeliers can have many decorative elements or be made in a minimalist style. A feature of operation is the need to remove the cover every time you replace a light bulb. Although if you use energy-saving lamps, such a need arises quite rarely. They are relatively inexpensive.

Ceiling chandeliers are controlled by standard switches or remote control. In the second case, the light source is LEDs. Often these chandeliers have multi-colored lighting effects. Although it is for the kitchen - this is superfluous.

Suspended contains 2 or more shades, which are fixed on a single structure, which is suspended by a chain or rod from the ceiling. They basically have a height-adjustable suspension, which helps in adjusting the lighting of the kitchen. Variations of hanging models are numerous, here there is a place for designer imagination to roam. Available in different sizes, shapes, colors and styles.

Note! The latest trend is the manufacture of such models from natural materials - rattan, dry branches, etc. Hand-made models are especially valued.

Plafonds can also be made of metal, plastic, glass, sometimes paper. The last option for the kitchen is inconvenient, since wet cleaning will not work.

When choosing a particular model, you should consider which ceiling in the kitchen. So, for a tension one, you need to carefully select a chandelier, and even before the start of repairs in the kitchen, since after the installation of the canvas, it will not work to hang any chandelier.

Chandelier and kitchen size

The style of the chandelier must necessarily fit into the dimensions of the room. So in the kitchen of Khrushchev it is unlikely that it will be possible to place a crystal suspension. Tips for choosing based on the dimensions of the kitchen:

• Small with low ceilings. It is better to select ceiling models, suspended ones will clutter up the usable space, make the ceilings visually lower.
• Narrow, elongated rooms. Here you need long pendant models with small shades. At the same time, it is important to choose such that the number of light bulbs in them is sufficient to illuminate such a non-standard space.
• Large. Classic chandeliers, massive pendants are simply needed here. Ceiling appliances look quite harmonious. Large kitchens with high ceilings - a place for multi-level suspensions.

Chandelier color and material

Often the choice of color is dictated by the decoration of the room and the stylistic decision of the chandelier. So, transparent, or rather, with transparent shades, chandeliers can be called universal. They adapt to the lighting solution of the kitchen: they are a soft, unobtrusive decor. They look great against the background of bright wallpapers, the facade of a kitchen set.

Models with dark shades will help to realize the design idea of ​​​​creating a contrasting kitchen. They look especially original against the background of a white headset. Bright models will become a central element, although they are difficult to fit into the interior. You will have to select the remaining elements under them.

The materials that are used for kitchen chandeliers should be chosen carefully. Designers recommend being especially scrupulous about the quality of the material if the device is located quite low. Details can be seen clearly. As for the ceiling structures, they are quite high, so you should not overpay too much.

Other requirements:

1. The material should not be easily soiled, which is why glass, plastic and metal are preferable to fabric.
2. Wooden - varnished or painted, metal - mastic.
3. The material must withstand the effects of detergents, you definitely can’t do without them.
4. It is convenient and easy to take care of forged chandeliers, shades can be made of plastic or glass.

Which lamp to choose?

In ceiling lights for the kitchen, you can use any of the lamps that are on the market today. Options:

1. Incandescent lamp. Familiar models that have a relatively short service life, but the lowest price. Since the hostess spends a lot of time in the kitchen, which means that the light will be on for a long time, the electricity bills will be large.
2. Halogen. Compact and durable light bulbs. They give a bright light, which is important for the kitchen. That is why they are often used to illuminate work areas; for chandeliers, these are used less often.
3. Energy saving or luminescent. They became in demand about 5–7 years ago, they are economical, they give bright light. Their cost is higher than the previous two options. Another problem - it takes time to warm up, about 2 minutes. In addition, they require special disposal.
4. LED. These lamps can be classified as "Most", namely the most durable, the most economical and the most expensive. In chandeliers, they can be used in the form of light bulbs with standard sockets, as individual LEDs. It is better to select models of chandeliers that are designed for a standard base, in which case the LED lamp can be replaced with any other.

Important! The choice of one or another lamp option depends on the budget and the type of chandelier selected.

Light intensity

It is believed that it is convenient for the kitchen to install lighting intensity controls - dimmers, but they may not work with all types of lamps. For example, incandescent lamps can work with any regulator. As for LED and energy-saving, special lamps are needed, with the appropriate marking. It is rational to use regulators for chandeliers if they use 2 light bulbs, if more, then it is more convenient to install a separate multi-key switch.

It is also required to calculate the illumination. The kitchen should be light, again, only the central chandelier will not give the desired effect. The calculation of the light intensity for central lighting can be done based on the formula - for every 10 square meters. m:

• Incandescent lamps - 120 W in total.
• Halogen - 60 W.
• Fluorescent - 30 watts.
• Energy saving - 25 watts.
• Led-lamps (LED) - 15–20 W.

Accommodation features

An important point is the correct location of the chandelier, while taking into account the following points:

1. If the chandelier is the main source of light in the kitchen, then it should be placed in the center of the room. This is especially true for small kitchens. If the room is large, then it is worth placing such a lighting item above the dining area.
2. The chandelier should not be placed lower than 1.2–1.4 m from the dining table, otherwise such lighting will cause discomfort.
3. For a studio apartment, where there is no separate kitchen space as such, it is better to use not one large, but several identical small chandeliers.
4. An option for the kitchen is a chandelier of an elongated, oblong model. Two, three, or even more lamps provide uniform illumination.

Expert opinion

Alexey Bartosh

Specialist in the repair, maintenance of electrical equipment and industrial electronics.

Important! For the kitchen, it is required to select models of chandeliers with increased protection against moisture and dust.

Mounting methods

There are 2 mounting options - suspended and ceiling. Suspended is used for hanging chandeliers, installation is done with a hook. It may already be installed in the ceiling or it may need to be reinstalled.

As for the ceiling mount, it is carried out by means of brackets (slats). The advantage of this installation is the minimal overhang of the chandelier design. Each of the fastener options, with the right selection of hardware, can withstand heavy chandelier models.

Kitchen- the most popular place in an apartment or house. It is customary for the whole family to gather here for a joint evening dinner. Yes, and during the day, households now and then intersect in the kitchen for a cup of morning tea or during lunch. Friendly gatherings until midnight are also often held in this room.

Such a demand for this room creates increased requirements for every detail of the interior - decor, functionality of furniture or ease of placement of household electrical appliances. This fully applies to lighting, which simply has to solve several problems at once: provide a sufficient level of light for cooking and eating and effectively complement the finished kitchen design. In this article, we will tell you how to choose a chandelier for the kitchen.

Chandelier, not a lamp

Why a chandelier, you ask? Why not the usual lamp? The fact is that a chandelier is a more presentable lighting device. If you compare it with a lamp, then it will fit more harmoniously into some styles. It will adequately complement an exclusive or luxurious interior, and in a more democratic kitchen it will become a bright and “tasty” zest.

Before proceeding with specific recommendations, it is necessary to answer one fairly frequently asked question: “How is a chandelier different from a lamp?” In fact, this question was asked by everyone who at least once faced the task of choosing a main light fixture for a room or kitchen.

Surely the answer will surprise you, but there are no cardinal, absolute differences between lamps and chandeliers. From time to time there is information that chandeliers have more horns and shades, they are larger in size, more refined in design, have a different type of attachment. In fact, among the thousands of models on the lighting equipment market today, there is everything. There are chandeliers that are smaller, simpler or cheaper than other fixtures. Therefore, it is better to trust the manufacturer's label.

Now that we've got the wording out a bit, let's take a look at some specific advice.

Height

If the ceiling chandelier is attached directly to the ceiling by the base, then the ceiling lamps are still at some distance from it. Such a design feature of ceiling lights obliges owners of apartments with low ceilings to be careful in choosing lighting fixtures and pay close attention to their height.

The main thing to remember: the height of the chandelier (calculated at the extreme points) should be no more than 1/4 of the height of the ceiling. Thus, we get that for a kitchen with a ceiling of 3 meters, models with a height of no more than 75 centimeters are suitable. But the owners of "Khrushchev", in which the ceiling is only 2.5 meters high, will have a harder time. They will have to look for a chandelier that will be no more than 62.5 centimeters from the base to the lower edge of the shades. We are convinced that similar models can be found in the catalogs of many manufacturers. But the search in this case will take more time.

Width (diameter)

When choosing a chandelier for the kitchen, we recommend paying attention to its diameter. It should be no more than 1/3 of the width of the ceiling, minus the area occupied by the built-in kitchen furniture. If the kitchen has a rectangular shape, then the shorter side is taken.

Thus, for a square kitchen with a side length of 4 meters, a chandelier with a diameter of no more than 133 centimeters would be ideal. For rectangular - with sides of 7 and 5 meters, select a model with a diameter of up to 166 centimeters.

The good news is that choosing a model in width is much easier. Therefore, if the device you like meets the requirements for height, then most likely it will fit in the second parameter.

Location

By and large, in the kitchen there are only two zones where a chandelier is hung - above the kitchen table and in the geometric center of the room.

Above the dining table is the most common place for a chandelier. In this zone, it is customary to gather with the whole family, here the hostesses delight guests with their culinary talents. But if the kitchen has an impressive area, and the table itself is located far from the center, the remaining zones will need to be “supported” by additional lighting. As we wrote above, sconces, recessed spotlights, all kinds of lights will cope with this task.

Mounting the device above the dining table has one condition: the light bulbs should not shine too brightly so as not to blind the diners. It is better to do this: if the maximum lamp power of 60 W is indicated in the instruction manual for the model, then it is better to use 45-watt ones. And if their total power is not enough for the entire room, then it is better to purchase additional sconces or install recessed lighting. In this case, without blinding light, dinners will become much more pleasant.

Placing a chandelier in the geometric center of the ceiling is justified for small kitchens, in which there is enough main light for each zone.

Another distinguishing point: suspended and ceiling chandeliers in compact kitchens are usually placed ONLY in the center of the ceiling. Off-center devices are allowed only in spacious rooms with several zones. In these cases, you can use not only one lamp and additional lights, but two or even three identical chandeliers.

Mount type

Chandeliers can be attached to the ceiling in one of four ways - using:

• ceiling hook;
• bracket (mounting plate);
• cross mounting plate (differs from the bracket only in a large number of attachment points;
• I-beam platform - designed for mounting huge heavy lamps, so we will not dwell on this type of mounting.

• on the type of chandelier (pendant or ceiling);
• on the type of ceiling (concrete, stretch, suspended).

Only models with a special type of fastening that clings to this hook can be hung on a hook. Such devices are the only ones that can be used if the ceiling is stretched. They are hung on a hook located on a solid concrete ceiling and hidden by a stretch ceiling PVC film.

Mounting strips are used if it is necessary to reduce the mechanical load on the false ceiling materials.

All calculations to determine the level of load and the choice of type of fastening must be carried out by a specialist. Otherwise, there remains the risk of a collapse of a suspended ceiling, a breakthrough of a stretch ceiling, or a fall of the lighting fixture itself.

It should also be noted that it is not recommended to use incandescent lamps in chandeliers on stretch ceilings. The fact is that such ceilings are quite sensitive to high temperatures, and incandescent bulbs can lead to their deformation or even fire.

A matter of style

Having dealt with some of the technical issues, we can finally move on to choosing the design of the kitchen chandelier. After all, despite the importance of mounting types or model dimensions, design is what buyers pay the most attention to.

The modern design library includes dozens of styles. However, the vast majority of lighting fixtures are made within four main areas:

• traditional styles;
• modern;
• modern;
• ethnic styles.

It is possible to carry the directions which are also referred to as "classics" to traditional. These are Baroque, Gothic, Empire, Classicism, Rococo, Victorian, Romanesque and others. Their main difference is the exact adherence to the canons of well-known historical styles that prevailed in different eras.

Modern styles are simple forms, increased attention to functionality, it is a bet on utility and freedom. This category includes cold high-tech, business Bauhaus, dreamy futurism, laconic minimalism, relaxed loft.

Modern styles combine the features of traditional and modern design trends. In them, refined baroque forms are complemented by unexpected broken lines of modern styles, and warm natural materials are combined with the cold sheen of metal. These areas include: art nouveau, art deco, modern.

Ethnic styles carry design elements created under the influence of different cultures. This is Moroccan, Mediterranean, colonial, Scandinavian style, country and its extreme embodiment - rustic.

When choosing a kitchen chandelier, be sure to consider the style of the furniture and decor present in it. Of course, one can object and recall such an interior style as eclecticism. Yes, it implies the skillful use of furniture, materials and decor in several design areas at once. But the main thing in this sentence is the phrase “skillful use”. Therefore, we do not recommend creating an eclectic interior without the guidance or advice of an experienced qualified designer.

In all other cases, along with the selection of style, try to also choose a chandelier:

• according to the colors available in the interior;
• invoices;
• materials;
• forms.

Of course, it is impossible to find a lighting model that will simultaneously reflect the design of kitchen furniture, a soft corner, and also a table. Therefore, you need to focus on some common feature that is inherent in all or most of the elements.

For example, the pride of the hostess is snow-white furniture with curved facades and golden decor. Excellent! You just need to find a chandelier with white lampshades on each arm and golden metal construction.

If the kitchen interior is built on a combination of black, white and pink colors. Then the chandelier must be found in one of the colors of this range.

And if the owners rely on natural materials, then a model with ceramics and natural wood details will be just right!

If you like the option, but you are not completely sure of its compliance with the interior, contact the designers of the VamSvet online store for help. Our experts have deep knowledge and extensive experience, so they can easily help you decide on the model.

Light level

We already wrote that the kitchen (especially combined with the dining room) is a universal room where they cook, dine, communicate, receive guests, read over a cup of coffee, watch TV. Therefore, a kitchen chandelier should be designed to provide a comfortable level of lighting for all occasions.

The design of the chandelier requires the presence of at least three light sources. In this case, the model can have one common ceiling. The maximum power of each light bulb is prescribed by the manufacturer in the instruction manual and depends on the materials used in the construction. Thus, this information helps the user to determine whether the model can provide a comfortable level of lighting in a kitchen of a certain area.

Let's look at an example. The buyer chose a chandelier for a room of 20 square meters. m. The model has a five-arm design, and the manufacturer's operating instructions indicate the maximum power of an incandescent bulb for this model is 60 watts. This means that the total power of the chandelier is 300W (60W x 5 horns).

Now we need to refer to the information below to help us understand if 300 watts will be enough to light up 20 sqm. kitchens. According to this list, to create bright lighting, 1 sq.m. area needed 20 watts of power. 20 sq.m. We multiply the rooms by 20 W, and we get the result - 400 W. This means that the selected chandelier with a total power of 300 W will not be able to provide bright basic lighting for a particular room.

The dependence of the area of ​​illumination on the power of light bulbs of different types

• incandescent bulbs - 10 W;
• halogen lamps - 7 W;
• energy-saving fluorescent lamps - 2 W.

• incandescent lamps - 15 W;
• halogen lamps - 10 W;
• energy-saving fluorescent lamps - 3 watts.

• incandescent bulbs - 20 W;
• halogen lamps - 13 W;
• energy-saving fluorescent lamps - 4 watts.
• LED lamps -2.5 - 3 W.

Ways to solve this problem

It's a shame if the thing you like cannot fully solve the tasks facing it. But here we must remember that every problem has a solution. Or maybe not even one. So if the chandelier you've chosen doesn't provide enough light, try one of the following tips.

Option 1: Additional lighting

Remember: the chandelier is the source of the main lighting. And if its light is not enough, we recommend resorting to the help of additional lamps. We are talking about wall sconces, a floor lamp in the dining area, recessed ceiling light, furniture lighting. A spotlight above the work surface, in the hood, will also help here. If the kitchen has a pronounced rectangular shape, you can cope with the task by buying a second chandelier.

Option 2: Selecting a different lamp type

Calculating the maximum power of the lighting device and the illuminated area, we took information about incandescent lamps. This information is also indicated by the manufacturer himself, when he writes in the operating instructions about the maximum allowable power of light bulbs in the ceiling lamps of a particular model. The limitation itself is explained by safety issues - incandescent bulbs noticeably heat up, which can lead to deformation of the ceiling or even to a fire.

But, fortunately, other types of light bulbs have been created! And most of them, with the same power, heat up less, and illuminate a large area.

Therefore, if you install energy-saving light bulbs of the maximum power allowed by the manufacturer in the chandelier from the example given here, they will illuminate every corner of the room.

Option 3: buying a model with a large number of horns

Apparently, this option is the simplest solution to the problem. Therefore, if you like a five-arm chandelier, but its light is not enough, find a six- or seven-arm model in the catalog of the same manufacturer. The main thing here is that it fits you in size.

light quality

Brightness, degree of heating are not the only factors by which the buyer should choose the type of lamp. The quality of their light is also important. We call quality the level of light comfort for human eyes. And in this matter, incandescent bulbs are considered the undisputed leader. Their light is warm and most pleasing to the eye. It does not cause tension and fatigue.

Light of halogen lamps gives a color temperature approximately equal to 3000 K. It is slightly colder (whiter) than the usual light of incandescent bulbs. Visually, it will be hardly noticeable, but the eyes will still get tired faster.

Light of fluorescent lamps(including "energy saving") has a bright white color. It helps to see the smallest details, but causes increased eye fatigue, which makes it uncomfortable to be in a room with such light for several hours in a row.

LED light bulbs today represented by all sorts of color temperatures. Thanks to this, the buyer can choose the one that is needed in specific conditions. The usual incandescent light bulb has a color temperature of 2200 K to 2700 K, so LED models should be selected based on these values. The main thing is not to forget to ask the seller about it.

Another important point

We want to tell you about one more little-known, but rather important point. It is associated with the concept "color rendering". Its essence lies in the fact that the light of different types of light bulbs can “present” the color of things in different ways. This also applies to food.

Incandescent bulbs have the best color rendering today - halogen bulbs perfectly convey the color of meat, fish and other products. Their color reproduction is also 100 percent.

Things are a little worse for fluorescent light bulbs (color rendering quality from 80 percent).

Regarding LED light sources, it should be noted that everything here will depend on the color temperature of the sample. Warm colors are preferred.

In practice, color reproduction can distort the natural appearance of food. For example, in cold-colored LED lighting, the meat may seem underdone to the hostess. As a result, she can simply overcook it.

In warm shades of lighting, meat, fruits, vegetables, and fish look much more appetizing. Therefore, the dishes themselves will surely attract more attention from home or guests.

Summing up

We have given you detailed information on how to choose a chandelier for the kitchen. We also really hope that all the information provided will be useful and help you buy the perfect chandelier for your kitchen. If you have any questions, please contact us! We will always help!

The key to good lighting in the kitchen is to find a balance between task and main lighting. The key to a stylish kitchen is to find a chandelier that is neither too small nor too large, and that blends in with other fixtures and with the interior as a whole. Here's how to choose the perfect chandelier for your kitchen by design, size, and material, and how to plan a lighting scheme for comfortable cooking and cozy meals.

How to choose a chandelier for your kitchen in 5 steps

Step 1: Some Math

Going to the store with the thought “I want a chandelier with five arms” is quite risky. Lighting may be too bright or dim. To understand what lamp power you need and how many of them should be in a future chandelier, you can:

• Use special online calculators like Dialux (they are free). They require a lot of input, but give the most accurate recommendations for lighting power.
• You can do the calculations yourself, focusing on the norms recommended by SanPin. The calculation is done in two stages.

Stage 1. Calculate the required amount of luminous flux (in Lumens)

This indicator is calculated by the formula = X * Y * Z, where:

• X is the norm of illumination of the object. For kitchens and dining rooms, SanPin recommends a standard light level of 150 lux.
• Y - kitchen area in sq. meters.
• Z - correction factor for the height of the ceilings. If the ceiling height is 2.5 -2.7 m, then the coefficient is equal to one, if 2.7-3 m, then the coefficient is 1.2; if 3-3.5 m, then the coefficient is 1.5.

• So for kitchen area of ​​12 sq. m and a ceiling of 2.7 m, a luminous flux of 1800 l is required.

Stage 2. We find out the required number of lamps and their power

Now, knowing the amount of luminous flux required for your kitchen, you can calculate the required number and power of lamps. The table below shows the power values ​​​​of all types of lamps and their equivalent luminous flux values. We divide the value of the luminous flux obtained at the first stage by the value of the luminous flux in lumens for the selected lamp. As a result, we get the required number of lamps of a specific power for your kitchen.

Please note that when choosing a chandelier, you need to focus on Lumens, and not on power in Watts. Manufacturers usually indicate this indicator on the packaging of lamps.

Of course, this calculation is not perfectly accurate. Moreover, there is a widespread opinion that the kitchen needs more light than SanPin recommends - about 200-250 lux. In addition, it must be borne in mind that the table contains very approximate values, since the luminous flux of two lamps of the same type and power can vary greatly depending on the manufacturer.

• Our advice: a little extra light doesn't hurt and is even desirable.
• Keep in mind that the darker the interior of the kitchen, the more powerful lamps are needed to illuminate the room.

Step 2. Decide on the size and type of chandelier

• For low ceiling kitchens(2.4-2.6 m) you should not buy high hanging chandeliers. It is better to bet on ceiling lights, spotlights, wall sconces, floor lamps and even table lamps.

In a kitchen with low ceilings, it is good to use wall sconces or floor lamps, the light of which is directed upwards.

By the way, the ceiling lamp should not be small. A flat, but sweeping chandelier, as in the photo below, will look much more harmonious.

• If the ceiling height is from 2.7 m, then the chandelier should be the main dominant in the interior.
• The most common mistake in choosing a chandelier for the kitchen is the fear of large sizes. When choosing between a slightly larger and slightly smaller chandelier, you should not be shy - a larger model always looks more harmonious.
• For a kitchen with high ceilings, you should choose massive chandeliers or very high pendants.

Step 3. Looking for where to hang the chandelier

The size of a chandelier largely depends on its location. For example, if the lamp hangs over a table, island or bar, then it can be large and tall, because in this place no one can hit it with their heads. The main thing is that its light does not hit the eyes of those sitting at the table.

• Chandeliers are usually hung above the table at a distance of 70-90 cm.

It is especially appropriate to place a chandelier above the table in the kitchen-living room, the kitchen in the studio apartment or in the spacious kitchen-dining room. Here are some photo examples of such a solution.

A small kitchen will seem more spacious if you place several lamps along the walls around the perimeter of the room. It can be any lamps: floor lamps, sconces, table lamps, spotlights. With light walls, the trick will work most effectively.

To visually expand a narrow kitchen, you need to install wall sconces or spotlights along one wall. Lamps lined up in the middle of the ceiling will further narrow the space.

Tip: The arrangement of the chandelier and lamps should be treated as ... prioritization in the interior.

Step 4. Choose the design and style of the chandelier

The choice of chandelier design depends on the style of the interior and the atmosphere you want to create.

For classic and neoclassical cuisine. For a solemn classic kitchen, especially spacious and with high ceilings, a crystal chandelier is suitable. The more pendants on it, the more elegant the interior will turn out.

If the classics are not strict, then you can pick up a chandelier with soft lampshades or in the Flemish style, possibly made of wood or aged metal.

Tip: For a classic kitchen, you can choose a chandelier and sconces or other additional lamps from the same collection.

For a rustic kitchen. For a Provence and country style kitchen, forged chandeliers or chandeliers with ceramic shades, aged bronze or brass chandeliers with crystal pendants and lanterns are suitable. For a country-style interior, a Tiffany-style chandelier is also suitable.

Tip: It is desirable that the lamps in the rustic kitchen be varied, but combined with each other.

For a kitchen in the style of a Russian dacha, a lampshade is suitable.

For modern kitchen. For a modern kitchen, you can choose a chandelier with a laconic design - with smooth or, conversely, strict geometric lines made of metal, glass and / or plastic.

A modern-style chandelier can resemble a real art object or be very modest in shape, but bright in color.

In a minimalist kitchen, you can play on the contrast and choose a luxurious crystal chandelier.

For a loft style kitchen. Chandeliers with incandescent bulbs without shades, as well as any ceiling or wall lamps made of metal (except gold, perhaps) will perfectly fit into the loft-style interior. Lights with a directional light and an adjustable tripod are also well suited.

Tip: When choosing a chandelier for the kitchen, try to consider the style of fixtures in other rooms as well. They do not have to be the same or selected from the same collection, but it is better that they have something in common. For example, all the lighting fixtures in the house can have bronze details to match the door handles.

Step 5. Consider materials

• When choosing a chandelier, keep in mind that the lower it hangs, the better the materials, parts and fittings from which it is made should be. A low-hanging chandelier should look good on the outside as well as on the inside. If it hangs high, then buying a model from expensive materials is not necessary. For example, a crystal chandelier can be replaced with a chandelier with glass or even plastic pendants. Plastic hanging on the ceiling will not get scratched, but it will not age beautifully like real crystal.
• The chandelier in the kitchen, of course, should be practical and easy to maintain, because periodically it needs to be cleaned from the inevitable greasy coating and dust. Therefore, a glass or plastic model is preferable to a fabric one. Paper lamps are the most impractical, as they cannot be cleaned without damaging them. A wooden chandelier will do, but it should be varnished, and a metal chandelier with mastic. But forged lamps are difficult to wipe from dust, as they have many bends and curls. Simple ceiling lights made of glass or plastic in geometric shapes are great for the kitchen: they are easy to care for.

7 things to know about kitchen lighting planning

1. Planning a kitchen lighting scheme is necessary before repair. It is best to do this at a stage when the location of the work area, dining table and storage area has already been determined.
2. The secret to pleasant lighting in the kitchen is to use more than one light source at different levels. A single central chandelier on the ceiling casts harsh shadows, shrinking the space and making it feel uncomfortable. Add to it at least one sconce, floor lamp or work area lighting, and the interior will change before our eyes.

1. The kitchen must have work area lighting and basic lighting. Additional lighting - optional. 1. Illumination of the working area, that is, countertops and / or islands, is created by spotlights or LED lighting. They are installed on the ceiling (right above the countertop) or under wall cabinets as in the photo below. 2. The main lighting is created either by spotlights around the perimeter / the entire area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe ceiling and / or a chandelier / pendant lights / wall sconces.

What else can be highlighted in the kitchen? Here are a few options: lighting wall decor, a mini-garden on the windowsill, cabinets with glass doors in a suite or sideboard, as well as lighting a plinth or cornice headset. Any local lighting will only make the main light softer and more interesting.

1. The light temperature in the working and non-working areas should be different. LED bulbs can produce warm, neutral or cool light. The ideal light for the work area is neutral white (it is as close as possible to natural daylight) or slightly cold. Too cold shade should not be chosen, as under it the food will seem unappetizing. For lighting the dining area and general lighting, it is better to choose yellowish or warm white light.
2. Energy can be saved with LED lamps and dimmers. LED lamps reduce energy consumption by up to 90% and last up to 20 years. Dimmers also allow you to smoothly adjust the degree of illumination and, thereby, save energy costs.
3. It is important to respect the technical distances. Few numbers:

• Any lamps, sockets, switches and wires must be at least 60 cm away from the sink and water communications.
• Recessed ceiling lights should be installed at least 30–40 cm apart.
• A distance of at least 20 cm must be maintained from the corner of the wall to the lamp.

1. When choosing a lamp for the kitchen, consider what lamps it is designed for. There are several types of lamps, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages.

• Incandescent lamps. Their advantages include a low price and pleasant warm light, their disadvantages are a short service life (1000-1200 hours), low efficiency (80% of electricity is converted into heat).
• Compact fluorescent (CCL). Pros: bright light, economical (only LEDs are more economical), long service life. Cons: rough look of lamps, non-environmental (their disposal must be carried out in accordance with certain rules), the light of fluorescent lamps can be tiring for the eyes. In addition, sometimes such lamps noticeably "blink" due to voltage drops.
• Halogen. Pros: Lamps last a very long time. Cons: they get very hot, they are expensive, in addition, their disposal must be carried out in accordance with certain rules. If there are children in the house, then buying a chandelier with halogen lamps is undesirable.
• LED. Cons: high price. Pros: increased strength, economical energy consumption, variety of shades, environmental friendliness, versatility (can be used both for lamps and as independent sources of light and illumination), resistance to heat, service life of 10-20 years.

In the kitchen with stretch PVC ceilings, you can install chandeliers with any LED lamps. For other types of lamps, there are restrictions: halogen lamps must have a power of no more than 35 W, and incandescent lamps - 60 W. This is due to the properties of the material, which can melt from too high temperatures.

Here are a couple more tips for choosing lamps:

• Lamps with a wide beam give general light, with a narrow beam - local illumination.
• Candle lamps give a more directional light.