Bobby Berk reveals exactly where to hang your kitchen light – for an ambient yet practical space

Bobby Berk has made a name for himself as one of the world’s top designers following his show Queer Eye – where he reshapes interiors across the US. However, Bobby’s latest tip focuses exclusively on the most practical space in the home: the kitchen. 

Sharing his modern kitchen ideas via his blog, Bobby explained that the key to a stylish yet functional space is in the position of your lighting. But how can you get the balance right? The Netflix personality recommends keeping things central. 

‘Lighting should be centered on an island or counter and not extend past the edge,’ Bobby says.

He emphasizes that above all else, the kitchen is a functional space, and so you should consider this practicality when considering lighting ideas. He recommends dangling the light with at least 30-36 inches between the bottom of a fixture and the top of a counter.

‘This will provide enough room for you to work – without your head awkwardly running into any lighting,’ he adds. 

However, while Bobby Berk offers specific measurements on where the light should hang, the designer explains there is no exact fitting for the correct size of the pendant. 

‘The larger your kitchen (and island), the larger your pendants can be,’ he says. ‘Kitchens with higher ceilings can also accommodate fixtures that have a larger or heavier visual feel.’

Plus, to emphasize your space further, esteemed kitchen designer Tom Howley suggests pairing the power of a pendant with reflective work surfaces that will bounce light around the kitchen. 

‘To keep an open feel, choose light paint colors and reflective materials such as bright quartz or a mirrored splashback,’ Tom says whilst sharing his small kitchen ideas. When choosing the best pendants for the job, the designer recommends sticking to a theme or a core tone that brings the kitchen together visually. 

‘Pendant lighting can draw the eye to an impressive dining room table or a social seating area. However, avoid placing your accent lighting in places you don’t want to draw attention to, such as sinks or preparation areas,’ he says. Because, as always, placement is key.

Our Bobby Berk-approved kitchen redesign begins now.