Many functional and comfortable kitchens have a layered lighting approach. A series of recessed fixtures provide ambient light. Chandeliers and pendants are popular products for task lighting over an island or seating area. Accent lighting above and below cabinets — or in a glass-front cabinet — highlight special areas of the kitchen.

Having a variety of lighting options lets you instantly convert your kitchen from a functional workspace to an intimate dining space.

Now light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are available for the home. These low-voltage lamps consume less than half as much electricity as fluorescents, and can last 10 times as long. One of the most practical uses for LEDs right now is in under-cabinet lighting.