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An island is a beautiful and functional addition to any kitchen. Much time and thought goes into the island design, placement and features. Many items should be considered. You want the island to be the right distance away from the rest of the cabinets in your kitchen to allow easy movement. You want the right features, for example, cabinets, cutting boards, a sink etc. However, one thing many people forget to consider when installing an island is lighting.

Because lighting isn't physically connected to the island it is often forgotten during the planning stage. The amount of light shining upon your island counter space is something that will affect you everyday. Remember to include lighting in your kitchen island plans and budget.

Many options can be considered for above island lights:

Pot Lights - Pot lights are great for providing directed light to an area. One great feature about potlights is their subtle nature. They sit receded into the ceiling and won't detract from any featured lighting fixtures you may already have. They won't ruin the landscape of your ceiling; they won't compete for attention in the room.

Track Lighting - If you have room on your ceiling, track lighting can be a good option. Unlike pot lights, track lighting can be adjusted at any time to focus light in different places. For example, if you decide you need more light directed to the sink area of your island, you can easily adjust and point more lights towards that area. Track lights are noticeable and need to be worked into the ceiling landscape in a way that will work. Track lighting has come a long way from the ugly single straight track versions. Many contemporary and stylish varieties are available in a huge variety of finishes.

Single Hanging Light - For a distinct focal point in your kitchen, a single hanging light is a good option. Placed centered over the island, a hanging light will provide a large amount of light to the countertop area.

Hanging Pots and Pans Rack - You'll need to approach lighting differently if you have a hanging pot rack above your island. Anything above the rack will cause shadows to be cast onto the counter. Some hanging racks actually have lighting incorporated into the design. If not, track lighting a small distance beside the rack can work well.

Whichever type of lights you choose, with some planning and attention you will surely enjoy your island area that little bit more with the right lighting.

You might enjoy other articles on kitchen island ideas.