Lighting Mistakes That Will Make Your Kitchen Look Dull And Tired.

By Deirdre Mundorf   March 28, 2025 8:15 am EST

Not installing enough accent lighting

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Remember, task lighting and ambient lighting are just two of the three essential layers in a kitchen. According to Elissa Hall, the lead designer at Awning, it is also easy to make a mistake with the space's accent lighting. A "lack of accent lighting — like sconces above the sink or a statement pendant — can make a kitchen seem just practical, therefore depriving it of character and visual interest."

Instead, you can embrace this particular lighting as an opportunity to enhance your design. "Accent or decorative lighting should certainly be included in the design not only to highlight unique design features but to be a part of the unique design features themselves," Laura Tribbett, the principal and founder of Outline Interiors, tells House Digest. For example, if you want your space to feel earthy, weave in some handmade ceramic sconces with loads of texture, cinching your theme. Or, if you really want to highlight the Calcutta marble that is the star of your design, install large pendents above the island to not only give it a spotlight but also draw the eye to that particular feature. This will ensure your kitchen isn't just utilitarian, but also thoughtfully designed and artfully put together.

Installing pendants too high

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If you don't want your kitchen's lighting to look flat, adding some pendants over the island can go a long way in improving the aesthetics of the space. However, you don't want to make a mistake when hanging them by positioning them at the wrong height. Tribbett says, "Installing pendants too high over a counter is one of my pet peeves that makes a kitchen design look 'off.' The bottom of the fixtures should be about 32 to 36 inches above the countertop surface." 

Keeping builder-grade lighting

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If you recently purchased a new home — or even purchased one that was built several years ago — it may still have builder-grade lighting. If you're not familiar with the term, builder-grade lights are basic, budget-friendly models that are commonly installed by home builders just to serve their purpose. And, while they often come in different styles and finishes, they're typically made from cheap materials. "I see a lot of homeowners who buy new construction forget about swapping out the builder-grade light fixtures. That's an easy opportunity to add your own personal spin to your kitchen," Tribbett explains.