Use Statement Lighting To Bring Character To An Otherwise Boring Kitchen

Is your kitchen looking a little blah and sad? Sometimes all you need is a new light fixture or two to zhuzh it up. In other words, it's time to ditch those builder-grade lights (we're talking about you, boob lights!) that do nothing but drag a space down. Yep, even if you upgrade everything else in your kitchen, your eyes will inevitably go to that plain old ugly fixture clinging to the ceiling — so you might as well make it pretty.

Whether that's a set of pendants hanging above your kitchen island or a wall sconce illuminating your countertops, statement lighting is easily one of the best hacks to make your kitchen more aesthetic. Think of it this way: It adds a wow factor by day and sets an inviting mood when lit at night. Renter or renovator, we've got just the tips and top picks to give the heart of your home a whole new character.

To get technical for just a bit, you'll first need to decide whether you want to install a new light source or work with what you already have. The second option is obviously the easiest to do. However, if you can barely see what you're doing in the kitchen, you're better off layering your lighting. This may involve calling an electrician to do some rewiring, so you can place elegant wall sconces near the sink, a nice chandelier over your breakfast nook, and sleek track lights above your food prep area.

Or, why not hack your statement lighting (the renter-friendly way) by using battery-operated and plug-in alternatives? These can be super-stylish, too. Exhibit A: this $90 Nekhung Rattan Pendant Light on Amazon. It's cordless and rechargeable; therefore you can hang it anywhere you want in the kitchen. Exhibit B: NookNova's $45 Industrial Wall Light Set at Walmart for task lighting with no cords in sight. Don't forget neon signs are also a great way to add a funky attitude and color to a bland kitchen scheme without hardwiring.

While there are heaps of light fixtures to brighten up your kitchen in style, always pick one that's proportionate to your space. You wouldn't want to dominate a teeny-tiny kitchen with an oversized fixture. Likewise, a too-small pendant would get lost in an open kitchen, so try hanging your lights in groups for more impact.

If you don't feel like splurging on additional lights just yet, you could simply replace an existing one, or add a new shade or cover. Let's say your kitchen is furnished with an ordinary flush-mount fixture. In this case, look for a similar (but chicer) light for an easy swap. Something like Arren's $139 Brass and Glass Bubble Ceiling Light from Crate and Barrel would make a stunning replacement. Whatever type of light you have, you can bet there's a statement-making version out there.

Our word of advice when planning your kitchen's lighting layout: Choose a style that complements your kitchen if you want your light to bring a little pizzazz without completely stealing the show. A fail-safe option is to match the fixture's finish with your other kitchen hardware. If not, feel free to introduce new textures and colors so that the piece stands out on its own. For instance, clear glass lights would catch the eye in an all-wood kitchen; the same goes for a colorful light shade in a white space.