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Photo by: Courtesy of Venegas and Company
Designed by: Venegas and Company

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One of the hardest working rooms in the house, the kitchen requires a certain amount of technical know-how when it comes to lighting.  An antique chandelier may be like an exquisite piece of jewelry for a room, but well-considered, functional fixtures go a long way toward making a kitchen both practical and beautiful around the clock. We turned to artist-turned-interior designer Kathleen Monroe for tips on how she approaches kitchen lighting, which she says can’t be tackled until the other major details (overall space planning, appliances, countertops, and cabinetry design) are in place. When it comes to choosing light, keep this essential rule in mind: Functionality comes first, then aesthetics.

Next section: First Things First

Really? I have to disagree with you about the overhead lighting in your Gissler link. It reminded me of a runway on the ceiling. Recessed cans would have been a better choice.

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