30 Modern Kitchen Lighting Ideas You Should Really Consider

Looking to add some new modern lighting to your kitchen? It's not as hard as you might think. While many homes come with built-in fixtures, we are major proponents of changing them up to update the aesthetic of your space. Lighting is not only one of the most important elements of a kitchen to help you cook efficiently, but it can easily take your space from adequate to stylish by just switching around a pendant or two.

If you're unsure how to pull this off, don't sweat it. We have plenty of ideas to take your kitchen lighting to the next level. But before you start shopping, we recommend that you take a good look at your kitchen and ask yourself a few questions. Where are there already lighting elements? What parts of your kitchen need the most direct illumination? Can you feasibly remove a light fixture and replace it DIY style or do you need professional help? Additionally, you should also access your budget for both installation and a fixture.

After figuring out your limitations and needs, you can go ahead and start looking for inspiration. Fortunately, there are plenty of beautiful kitchens that can give you inspiration. From Nancy Meyers movies to Lonny home tours, it's easy to find cool cuisines to serve up amazing lighting looks. All you have to do is figure out which one will feel the best in your space.

Since you want amazing modern kitchen lighting ideas all in one place, we did the heavy lifting for you. We rounded up 30 stylish spaces that show off multiple ways to illuminate your cuisine. From chandelier to pendants to track lighting, these kitchens are sure to help you on your path to finding the perfect way to brighten up your design. Read ahead to see them all.

Modern Lighting Idea #1: Modern Statement

Choose a modern statement light like this amazing chandelier to really make an impact in your space. While this look isn't the typical one you might regularly find in the average kitchen, you can't deny that it takes this cuisine to the next level. Try to find modern chandeliers with multiple bulbs to maximize lighting.

Modern Lighting Idea #2: Section Off

To strategically make the most of your space, you should section off where you need any targeted lighting. In this kitchen, two pendants give extra illumination to the island, while another sconce provides direct light to the coffee maker and toaster (which is very much appreciated during a morning routine).

Modern Lighting Idea #3: Fun Flush Mounts

There are such things as fun flush mounts. In this beachside California kitchen, a more minimalist approach to design calls for more blank spaces. While the aesthetic feels clean and streamlined, a gold flush mount with an exposed bulb adds a hint of glitz to the look. We love how the pair bookend the oven hood.

Modern Lighting Idea #4: Central Chandelier

While placing two pendant lights over a kitchen island is the norm, why not mix it up by placing a central chandelier instead? We like how it still provides excellent task lighting over the areas you use most, but also allows you to get creative with a more angular or modern design. This kitchen by designer Nicole Hollis is a perfect example how to pull it off.

Modern Lighting Idea #5: Go For Glass

For a more antiqued look in your kitchen, go for glass pendants with a soft matte patina. Mixed with modern metal accents, the lighting can feel at once retro and forward thinking. Amber Interiors does a great job at using these pendants to help give the design a Cali-cool meets farmhouse aesthetic.

Modern Lighting Idea #6: Work With Woven

Going for a bohemian beach house vibe? Then you should definitely consider working with woven pendants in your kitchen design. These pieces can give your space a fun and carefree feel while also providing necessary lighting to keep you cooking. Plus you can also find these designs for some pretty great price points.

Modern Lighting Idea #7: Search Unique Designs

Don't let your home just have any old pendant lighting. Search for unique designs that feel like a work of art in themselves. We are digging these black lights sourced from a New Zealand-based desginer. that almost look like moon craters in author Pierce Brown's cool L.A. bachelor pad.

Modern Lighting Idea #8: Think Antique

While you might not think a classic antique chandelier would feel like the appropriate piece for a kitchen, we would like to argue otherwise. Case in point? This cool kitchen in Venice Beach. While the rest of the design feels modern, the chandelier gives gravitas to the lighting in the small space.

Modern Lighting Idea #9: Cloud-Like Creation

Want a dreamy kitchen? Why not add in a light fixture that feels like a cloud. A cool modern creation like this can give your home the elevated piece it needs to step up to the next level. Plus it is an effective item to keep your countertops well lit around dinnertime.

Modern Lighting Idea #10: Perfect Trio

Add in a perfect trio of pendant lights so you can effectively provide lighting to your kitchen countertops. We like these pieces in brass metal because it adds a hint of modern glam to the otherwise neutral-toned room. It also pairs nicely with the set of three stools at the counter.

Modern Lighting Idea #11: Think Big

Don't be afraid to think big with your kitchen lighting designs. These oversized pendants are definitely not small in scale and can make a grand impact on your space. Not only will they help the room stay well lit, but it also brings the eyes up to showcase high ceilings. We like how this kitchen takes a monochromatic approach to keep things consistent.

Modern Lighting Idea #12: Illuminate Your Shelves

In this pre-war NYC apartment, we learn the importance of illuminating your open shelving. A series of three sconces are strategically placed to provide task lighting to make grabbing dishes a little bit easier. It's also conveniently above the sink to give the homeowner a clear path for cleaning up after dinner.

Modern Lighting Idea #13: Warm Glass

***Photographed by Caroline Sharpnack.***

Exposed bulbs and a warm amber glass shell pair together to create a set of pendants that are begging to be noticed. In a more maximalist kitchen like the one in this Nashville home, choosing a fun design for your lighting is a great way to add an extra pop of personality.

Modern Lighting Idea #14: Take Up Space

***Photographed by Gaelle Le Boulicault.***

While pendants and track lighting are the norm, this Parisian kitchen takes it a step further with a modern piece that's not afraid to take up space. A collection of exposed cords work together to make the fixtures feel like a piece of art rather than a nuisance. Plus, the design allows for multiple areas to be well lit in the kitchen.

Modern Lighting Idea #15: Along The Curve

***Photographed by Genevieve Garruppo.***

Have an island that takes a more rounded approach? You can still have pendants that work along the curve. Be strategic with your lighting placement to be able to be serve your space. Interior designer Leanne Ford made sure to get the positioning just right in this boho Venice home.

Modern Lighting Idea #16: Mixed Metals

***Photographed by Alec Hemer for Timothy Godbold.***

Choosing your kitchen fixtures? Get on trend and pick a selection with mixed metals. Whether you go for silver and gold or brass and matte black, these combinations not only let you get a bit more creative with your color schemes but also make for more interesting modern lighting designs.

Modern Lighting Idea #17: Back To Black

Another trend we are loving? A step away from the classic all-white kitchen. That means cabinets, fixtures, and appliances are going back to black. Search out pendants in darker hues to add some drama to your lighting. We're digging how this kitchen has them positioned at varying heights to add a fun dynamic to the design.

Modern Lighting Idea #18: Mushroom-Shaped Fixtures

Haven't you heard? Mushroom-shaped fixtures are all the rage these days. These curvy designs are a great way to add personality and some necessary lighting to your kitchen. If you're doing a reno and want to add a modern touch to your space, we recommend leaning into this shapely trend seen in this kitchen.

Modern Lighting Idea #19: Break Out The Bubbles

Bubble chandeliers can always add a pop of fun to a room. So why not add them to your kitchen? This space designed by Homepolish takes advantage of its high ceilings by placing in a pair to provide ample lighting and style to the cuisine. Plus with the neutral glassy hue, it doesn't distract too much from the rest of the kitchen.

Modern Lighting Idea #20: Match Up

***Photographed by Claire Esparros for Homepolish.***

Is your kitchen just adjacent to your home's dining area? If you have statement lighting over where you eat, you should make sure to match up your lighting designs between the two spaces. While the pair doesn't have to be exactly the same (and honestly, they shouldn't be), try to find styles that compliment each other.

Modern Lighting Idea #21: Don't Nix Track Lighting

***Photographed by Jessica Glynn Photography.***

One of our favorite interior designers Hannah Collins once advised us to not nix track lighting from your design. “Believe me I have seen my fair share of ugly track lighting,” shares Collins. “But for kitchens, it can be extremely useful and a great lighting source. The flexibility you get with track is hard to beat. If you hate even the beautiful modern versions, try to find a soffit or beam you can sneak it behind.”

Modern Lighting Idea #22: Create Space

If you're wondering where to position your light fixtures, you should know that they don't have to be side by side. If you have bright bulbs that can project a lot of light as well as lighting designs that maximize range, you can place your pendants further away from each other.

Modern Lighting Idea #23: Work Your Rental

If you're in a rental, it might feel like an impossible task to update your lighting. However that's not necessarily the case. While you might be stuck with some unfortunate ceiling lights, chat with your landlord to see if you can update a pendant. You may have to pay for an electrician yourself, but a more modern fixture is worth it.

Modern Lighting Idea #24: Sleek Silver

If you want to go for a minimalist, all-white kitchen, one of our favorite lighting options to keep with a streamlined look is sleek silver pendants. While they might not be the boldest look out there, it's a great way to help your space stay on palette and add a hint of sheen.

Modern Lighting Idea #25: Bulb It

If you want to give your kitchen a modern touch, forgo pendants and install a few exposed light bulbs hanging on cords from the ceiling instead. It's a fun touch that can definitely still give your space adequate lighting. If you need more, you can also include a pendant as well.

Modern Lighting Idea #26: Keep It Clear

Using bolder colors for your cabinets, island, and seating? Then it might be a good idea to keep your lighting clear. This pair of pendants have a fun spherical shape with a brass band that helps them stand out without overpowering the design scheme. We love how they are worked into the kitchen of this cute Austin bungalow.

Modern Lighting Idea #27: Vintage Feel

You don't necessarily need new lighting in your space. In this amazing Brooklyn reno, pendants with a vintage feel were added to the kitchen to help curate a classic yet modern feel. Peek around flea markets, antique stores, or Chairish to scout out some quality finds that can enhance your space.

Modern Lighting Idea #28: Ornate Options

Don't rule out any ornate options when it comes to your kitchen. If you want to curate a more bohemian space or incorporate a cool pendant found on travels, you can easily add them into your kitchen. Just be sure to supplement with extra task lighting if it's needed.

Modern Lighting Idea #29: Let It Glow

Globe pendants are a great way to let it glow in your kitchen. We like how these provide a soft matte light that feels fresh and modern while also not overpowering the space. If you're looking for a simply chic lighting option, these are definitely a great option to consider.

Modern Lighting Idea #30: Go Big Or Go Home

While simple is nice, oversized pendants are also great if you're looking to make a statement. In this dramatic kitchen, huge dark lighting fixtures are an excellent solution to keep the large island well lit and also provide a fun element to the design. Just be sure they are proportional to your space.