Modern Circular Indirect Lighting: Elevating Your Commercial Kitchen Lighting Design

When it comes to designing a commercial kitchen, lighting is often an afterthought. However, proper lighting is crucial for creating a safe and efficient workspace. In recent years, modern circular indirect lighting has emerged as a popular trend in commercial kitchen design. This type of lighting not only provides ample illumination but also creates a sleek and modern aesthetic. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using modern circular indirect lighting in commercial kitchens and provide tips for incorporating it into your lighting design.

1. Understanding the basics of commercial kitchen lighting

Commercial kitchens require a high level of illumination to ensure that tasks are completed safely and efficiently. The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) recommends a minimum of 100 footcandles (FC) for general kitchen lighting. However, areas such as food prep stations and cooking areas may require even higher levels of illumination.

There are three main types of lighting used in commercial kitchens: ambient, task, and accent. Ambient lighting provides overall illumination and is typically achieved using overhead fixtures such as fluorescent or LED lights. Task lighting, as the name suggests, is used to illuminate specific tasks and is often achieved using under-cabinet lighting or pendant lights. Accent lighting is used to highlight specific areas or features of the kitchen and is typically achieved using track lighting or spotlights.

In addition to providing adequate illumination, commercial kitchen lighting must also be durable and easy to maintain. Fixtures should be shatterproof and able to withstand high temperatures and humidity levels. LED lights are a popular choice for commercial kitchens as they are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and require minimal maintenance.

2. The benefits of modern circular indirect lighting

Modern circular indirect lighting is a popular trend in commercial kitchen design. This type of lighting provides a sleek and modern aesthetic while also offering a number of practical benefits.

One of the main benefits of circular indirect lighting is that it provides even illumination without harsh shadows or glare. This is achieved by directing light upwards towards the ceiling, which then reflects downwards to provide a soft and diffused light. This type of lighting is ideal for commercial kitchens as it creates a comfortable and safe working environment.

Another benefit of circular indirect lighting is that it is energy-efficient. LED lights are often used in circular indirect fixtures, which consume significantly less energy than traditional incandescent or fluorescent lights. This not only helps to reduce energy costs but also has a positive impact on the environment.

In addition to being energy-efficient, circular indirect lighting is also long-lasting and requires minimal maintenance. LED lights have a lifespan of up to 25,000 hours, which means that they need to be replaced far less frequently than traditional lights. This not only saves money on replacement costs but also reduces the amount of waste generated by the kitchen.

3. How to choose the right fixtures for your kitchen

When choosing fixtures for your commercial kitchen, there are a number of factors to consider. The size and layout of the kitchen, the tasks being performed, and the overall aesthetic of the space are all important considerations.

For larger kitchens, circular indirect pendant lights can be a great option. These fixtures provide ample illumination and can be hung at different heights to create a more dynamic lighting design. In smaller kitchens, flush mount or recessed fixtures may be more appropriate as they take up less space and provide a more streamlined look.

It’s also important to consider the color temperature of the fixtures. In commercial kitchens, a cooler color temperature of around 4000K to 5000K is typically recommended. This type of lighting closely resembles natural daylight and helps to create a bright and alert working environment.

Finally, consider the overall aesthetic of the kitchen. Modern circular indirect lighting fixtures come in a variety of styles and finishes, so it’s important to choose ones that complement the design of the space. Sleek and minimalist fixtures work well in contemporary kitchens, while more decorative fixtures can add a touch of personality to traditional or rustic kitchens.

4. Tips for incorporating indirect lighting into your design

Incorporating indirect lighting into your commercial kitchen design can be a great way to create a modern and efficient workspace. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Layer your lighting: While circular indirect lighting provides excellent overall illumination, it’s important to also include task lighting for specific work areas. Pendant lights over prep stations or under-cabinet lighting in cooking areas are great options.

2. Consider the layout: The layout of the kitchen will play a big role in determining where to place your fixtures. High-traffic areas such as walkways and doorways should be well-lit to ensure safety.

3. Don’t forget about natural light: If possible, incorporate natural light into your kitchen design. Skylights or large windows can help to reduce energy costs and create a more pleasant working environment.

4. Use dimmers: Installing dimmers on your lighting fixtures can provide greater flexibility and allow you to adjust the lighting levels depending on the tasks being performed.

5. Conclusion

Modern circular indirect lighting is a popular trend in commercial kitchen design and for good reason. This type of lighting provides even illumination, is energy-efficient, and requires minimal maintenance. When choosing fixtures for your kitchen, consider the size and layout of the space, the tasks being performed, and the overall aesthetic. By incorporating indirect lighting into your design, you can create a modern and efficient workspace that meets the needs of your kitchen staff.