Stylish and Functional Lighting Options for Your Kitchen Island Bench

Kitchen island benches are often the focal point of any kitchen and for a good reason. With their stunning benchtops, chic cabinetry and striking designs, it’s easy to see why. But these are the elements we often get caught up thinking about, when there are so many other things to consider, such as lighting. Good lighting is vital when it comes to complementing your kitchen space, especially your kitchen island bench. There’s no point in having the most gorgeous island yet the lighting is letting you down functionally, aesthetically, or even both. 

We know how important this topic is, so we wanted to cover both the functionality and aesthetics of kitchen island bench lighting, so, that when it comes time for your kitchen project, you’ll know exactly what to choose.

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Image credit: Polina Radchenko Interiors | Cathy Schusler  

Types of Lighting: Task, Ambient, and Accent

First things first, to achieve effective lighting, it’s good to aim for a mix of task, ambient, and accent. Each serves a unique function, and when blended together, you can create a space that feels warm and inviting while still allowing you to carry out tasks properly. 

Task Lighting: Focuses light where it’s most needed, facilitating efficient food preparation and cooking activities (or even after-school homework!)

Ambient Lighting: Provides a soft glow that fills the room, enhancing the general atmosphere and making the space welcoming.

Accent Lighting: Highlights specific architectural features or items within the kitchen, adding depth and visual interest.

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Image credit: Paradigm New | Hap & Co | Nira Creative       

Layering Lighting Within a Kitchen

Layering lighting is a strategic approach that combines these different types of lighting to create a flexible and visually dynamic environment. It ensures that the kitchen is not only functional but also inviting, adjusting to the required mood and activity. This balanced lighting can adapt from a bright, clear working environment during meal prep to a softly lit, cosy gathering space in the evening. It’s the best of both worlds, need we say more?

Image credit: @projectcoastal | Simon Whitbread Photography 

Image credit: @projectcoastal | Simon Whitbread Photography 

Kitchen Island Bench Lighting Ideas

1. Minimalist Modern Pendant Light

For modern minimalist interiors, a linear black pendant light provides both style and functionality. Positioned directly above the island, it casts a concentrated beam of light that is perfect for preparing meals while its sleek, understated design complements the simplicity and clean lines of modern decor.

Discover the kitchen splashback tiles we’re currently loving.

Japandi Kitchen mood board created by Maddy Jade Interiors on Style Sourcebook.

Gem Residence mood board created by Blanco Interiors on Style Sourcebook.

2. Single Point Pendant Light

A single-point pendant light is incredibly versatile and suitable for both small and large kitchen island benchtops. It can act as a statement piece or be subtly integrated into the decor. This type of lighting is particularly effective when used to spotlight a specific area of the island, such as a prep station or dining spot, adding not just light but also a focal point of aesthetic interest. 

Image credit: McShane Studio | Anne Stroud Photography 

3. Minimal Black Down Lights

Minimal black downlights are the epitome of modern kitchen lighting, blending seamlessly into the ceiling and providing widespread illumination. They are particularly effective for kitchens with dark colour palettes or high ceilings where they can cast ample light without becoming a visual distraction.

Needing more inspiration for your kitchen island bench? We’ve got you covered with 13 kitchen island bench ideas that are sure to make a statement.

Image credit: @studio.mchugh | Jessica Harris 

4. Coastal Style Pendant Light

Coastal style pendant lights bring a light, airy vibe to the kitchen, perfect for spaces with natural materials and pale colour palettes. These lights often incorporate elements like wicker or textured materials, providing not just illumination but also adding a piece of art to the kitchen.

Image credit: Hennessy Building Projects | Kristian van der Beek 

5. Chandelier Pendant Light

Chandelier pendant lights infuse a sense of luxury and grandeur, ideal for larger kitchens with spacious island benches. These fixtures can be ornate, with crystals or intricate metal work, or more subdued with modern designs that provide a large amount of light while also serving as a centrepiece.

Love pendant lights? Explore how to bring them into your home beyond your kitchen space.

Image credit: The Designory | Simon Hunter Photography 

6. LED Light Strip For Your Kitchen Space

An LED light strip offers a subtle yet effective way to light up the underside of the kitchen island or along the edges, creating an ambient glow that can change the mood of the space. This option is particularly appealing in modern kitchens where a discreet lighting solution is preferred that also offers energy efficiency.

Image credit: Cotter Builders | Beauty Focus Photography 

Image credit: Cotter Builders | Beauty Focus Photography 

7. Cabinetry Lighting

Cabinet lighting is crucial for functionality, allowing you to find items in your island storage easily, but it also plays a significant aesthetic role. Whether using LED strips or puck lights, this lighting can turn kitchen island cabinetry into a display feature at night, enhancing the ambience of the entire kitchen.

Heaney House // Kitchen mood board created by Project Four Interiors on Style Sourcebook.

Sophisticated Kitchen Design mood board created by K A N L A P E R L A on Style Sourcebook.

Tips for Bringing Additional Light into Your Kitchen Space

1. Large Windows: Maximising natural light through large windows or skylights near the kitchen island can dramatically reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day, saving energy and enhancing the natural beauty of the kitchen.
    
2. Reflective Surfaces: Incorporating materials such as marble, polished stone, or gloss tiles in the splashback or even countertops can effectively amplify light, making the kitchen feel brighter and more spacious.
    
3. Adjustable Lighting: Incorporate adjustable lighting solutions such as dimmers or lights with adjustable heights. This allows you to control the intensity and focus of the lighting based on the time of day or the task at hand. For instance, brighter light for food prep and a dimmer ambience for dining or socialising. Adjustable fixtures also offer the flexibility to change the mood and functionality of the space effortlessly.
    
4. Smart Lighting Controls: Implement smart lighting systems that can be controlled via a smartphone app or a home automation system. These systems offer the convenience of adjusting light settings remotely, setting schedules for automatic adjustments, and even syncing your lights with other smart home devices. Smart lighting can enhance the functionality of the kitchen by allowing you to create custom lighting scenes for cooking, entertaining, or relaxing.

 Needing more inspiration? Begin creating your dream kitchen space, complete with lighting solutions, on the Style Sourcebook mood board tool.

Image credit: The Designory | The Quarter Acre  

Image credit: The Designory | The Quarter Acre  

Frequently Asked Questions 

What type of lighting is best for a kitchen island?

The best type of lighting for a kitchen island combines task, ambient, and accent lighting. This mix ensures that the island is functional for cooking and food preparation, provides a welcoming glow for general use, and highlights architectural features or decor items. Specific fixtures might include pendant lights, downlights, and LED strips, depending on the size of the island and the overall style of the kitchen.

What is the trend in pendant lighting in 2025?

In 2025, the trend in pendant lighting is leaning towards bold yet minimal designs that complement both modern and traditional decors. Linear and geometric shapes are popular, offering clean lines and a sleek look. Materials like black matte metal, glass, and mixed elements such as wood and metal are also trending, providing versatility and style. Additionally, there is a growing preference for eco-friendly and energy-efficient lighting solutions, including LED pendants that combine aesthetic appeal with functionality.

What kind of light bulbs are best for kitchen island pendants?

The best light bulbs for kitchen island pendants are LEDs due to their energy efficiency and long lifespan. LEDs offer excellent colour rendering and come in a range of colour temperatures, allowing for customization according to the desired ambience (warmer yellows for a cozy feel or cooler whites for a more natural daylight effect). They are also available in dimmable versions, giving you the flexibility to adjust the lighting intensity based on the time of day or the activity being performed. Additionally, LEDs do not emit as much heat as traditional bulbs, making them safer for areas where food is prepared.