Aside from style and storage, lighting is the most important design aspect of a contemporary kitchen. Getting it right means your kitchen is practical and a joy to spend time in. Embracing the latest lighting innovations makes this easier to do.

With smart lighting you can change and personalise your space at the touch of a button. Dimmable smart bulbs not only alter brightness levels but also the tone. So, you can slowly transition between bright white for tasks and a warm orange for ambience. It also gives you app and motion control options. So, you no longer need to walk to the light switch.

Flexible strips have improved lighting too. COB technology means LEDs are closely packed in to create a more uniform light. They’re ideal for contouring cabinets or highlighting decorative features, recesses and plinths to add drama. They can also be practical, highlighting drawer openings on clean-lined, handless cabinets and lighting your path around the kitchen.

Shadows cast by traditional kitchen lights not only darken the space but make tasks more of a challenge. There are multiple ways to banish shadows in contemporary kitchens. New slimline under-cabinet LEDs won’t disrupt your clean lines and 120° beams spread light out to fully illuminate your worktops. You’ll find the latest options are compatible with voice controls, leaving you free do the task in hand.

High-output LED spotlights make a good replacement for inefficient halogen spotlights. But if you’re yet to design your kitchen lighting, resist the temptation to use a grid of ceiling spotlights. Instead use low glare, directional lights such as those on a well-designed track system.

Track systems are really customisable and adaptable, so it’s no wonder they’re having a revival. Longer tracks with more contemporary designs mean they’re no longer just functional. Sleek black tracks against a bright white ceiling creates an eye-catching contrast. Decorative bulbs, pendants and glass shade options mean you can really make a statement with your track design. If you’re sticking with bare bulbs though, choose a CRI level that’s 80 or above to give you a more natural light.

Extending your lighting beyond the kitchen creates a bigger space. If you’re lucky enough to have glass doors leading outside, then light your garden at night. The night-time scenery increases the sense of depth and makes a stunning feature.

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John McCallister - lighting expert: John is a qualified electrician and lighting expert with over fifteen years' experience. John specialises in intricate lighting projects for home extensions and loft conversions.