2. Pullman Kitchen

Pullman-style kitchens get their name from their resemblance to the elongated sleeping cars found on the Pullman Company’s passenger trains from the 1800s, and they’re still popular in today’s homes and lofts. These distinct kitchen layouts are typically comprised of a single wall that includes the refrigerator, sink, and stove, which means they can feel a little short on elbow room. If your Pullman-style kitchen has only one wall, consider adding a kitchen cart or island to the area in order to maximize your workspace. Pendants are an ideal lighting option to keep things balanced, and they’re a great fit over an island.

Pro Tip: If your Pullman kitchen shares the same general space as your primary eating area, then a track lighting system (rather than pendants) can help you illuminate the entire room. These sprawling fixtures have the ability to double as a source of ambient light and task light, and they come in a range of styles and finishes to help you decorate your space as you please. If you have your heart set on pendant lighting, linear pendants are an option for substituting with track lighting while still covering a wide area in direct light.

3. L-Shaped Kitchen

One of the most popular layouts, the L-shaped kitchen affords plenty of workspace and elbow room for all of your culinary endeavors. Its general openness demands ample overhead lighting, while its countertops and coordinating island require task lighting. Go for a combination of a pendant lights and either a semi-flush or flush mount fixture for the perfect amount of light layering. Also, consider under-cabinet lights that can further illuminate your countertops with little fuss.

Pro Tip: One consideration you’ll want to keep in mind when choosing light fixtures for any kitchen layout is the overall color scheme of the room as well as its dimensions. Kitchens with dark cabinetry and appliances will likely require more light (i.e., more fixtures) to brighten the look and feel of the room. Spacious kitchens with high ceilings need extra illumination, as well.

4. Horseshoe Kitchen

Horseshoe or U-shaped kitchens are designed just as their name suggests with two parallel countertops connected with each on either side. Similar to the peninsula but with even sides, this layout offers a generous amount of countertop space and provides a convenient place to entertain guests while you cook. For this type of kitchen, overhead illumination from a primary chandelier, pendant, or series of recessed lighting is essential.

Pro Tip: Flush mount fixtures keep this layout looking particularly streamlined and are ideal for fans of minimalistic decor. Three mini pendants in a row are another strong option for evenly lighting the peninsula. Consider clear shades and nostalgic bulbs for style points and an open look. For a more directional pooling of light, pendants with opaque shades will also be a visual draw.

5. Galley Kitchen

Similar to Pullman kitchens and horseshoe kitchens, galley layouts are typically small in size and feature two sections divided by a hallway. This style requires a mix of overhead lighting and task lighting for optimal illumination, but your options are surprisingly versatile. Go for track lighting throughout the entirety of the kitchen, place two chandeliers on both ends of the hallway for ample overhead light, or hang a series of pendants throughout the hallway instead.

Pro Tip: Because galley kitchens can look cramped, focus on keeping your lighting balanced and proportioned. Try clear glass shades and caged frames to help open up the area.

6. Center-Island Kitchen

When it comes to contemporary kitchens, islands take center stage. Shine a light on this focal point with either island lights or pendant lights, depending on your personal preferences and lighting needs. Island fixtures are made to enhance these areas with multiple bulbs spaced evenly in a linear or circular silhouette. Pendants, on the other hand, can be grouped together in imaginative or even asymmetrical ways to showcase your personal sense of style.

Pro Tip: Consider using lights with different finishes for a creative way to mix metals. Our advice? Choose a combination of no more than two tones, and make one metal more dominant than the other.

As you can see, there are countless ways to brighten up any kind of kitchen layout with a variety of lighting solutions. Check out “Light Your Kitchen for Delicious Activity” for other bright ideas, and read “Swoon-Worthy Farmhouse Pendant Lighting for Your Kitchen” for light fixtures with plenty of character and charm.

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