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The Canadian Home Builders ’
Association is a non-profit organization
dedicated to education, professionalism, and Question: Could you please give me some suggests on how to light my kitchen? Answer: Now that spring is on its way, a lot of people are considering home improvement projects, but you don’t have to tear down walls or rearrange the furniture to make a statement. In most cases, reworking the lighting is all it will take to transform a room. The kitchen is a perfect example of a room that can really benefit from this. The kitchen has turned into the primary gathering place of the home, and with all the multi-tasking going on, a single 100 watt fixture just doesn’t cut it any more. A lot depends on the size and complexity of the room. Small kitchens may require only a central ceiling fixture and task lighting tucked under a cabinet. Consider a semi-flush fixture that holds three bulbs. This gives better general illumination than a track which concentrates light. This focused beam of light would be used more effectively when directed at upper cabinets. Pot lights, placed correctly, are one of the best options for more elaborate kitchens. Install them on each side of the sink and stove areas to minimize shadows and create adequate task lighting. To illuminate counter tops, place the pot light above the front edge of the counter to avoid having the viewer standing in their own shadow. For overall lighting space them approximately 3-4 feet apart in an 8-foot ceiling. Halogen track lights are also a great source of light. However, it’s important that both these styles are placed above the work area. Under-cabinet lights have become an essential tool. With their slim design, energy efficiency and colour quality of incandescence, it’s definitely one of the best task lights. These can also be used in over-cabinet lighting which helps emphasize tall ceilings. No matter what style you choose, be sure to light all corners of the kitchen. Position the fixtures so that the light spills into all areas of the room. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact us through our website: www.gemiller.ca. Winner of 18 Awards during 2005 for both excellence in craftsmanship and customer service, including CHBA’s National SAM Award, a BBB Torch Award , and the Silver Grand Georgie Award “Best Renovator in B.C.”
Greg Miller , President Professional home building and renovating is not a hobby. Protect your investment and hire a trained professional at www.chbavictoria.com. Look for "Ask a Home Building Professional" every Wednesday in the Times Colonist. |
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CHBA Victoria #1-3690 Carey Road, Victoria, BC,
V8Z 4C2 |
