What is the best lighting for a Café?
Lighting is vital for creating an inviting atmosphere within the café. Whether you want ceiling lighting for over the counter or wall lights to illuminate the tables, we have many different types of lighting available.
How to design a café lighting scheme
When designing a lighting scheme, one of the first things to consider is the purpose of lighting. In a commercial space, such as a café, there may be work zones where the baristas prepare the delicious coffees, which will require dedicated task lighting. Task lighting can include pendant lights over the counter and wall sconces, which will ensure optimal visibility when handling hot liquids.
You should also consider the customer experience and choose lighting that welcomes your guests to enjoy spending time in the space. Incorporating fixtures such as clusters and chandeliers can act as statement lighting, providing visitors with a visual spectacle as they sit back and enjoy their delicious coffee and cake.
The position of the café lights can significantly impact the ambience. For seating areas, it is recommended that lighting be positioned above or beside. This should help to minimise any shadows or glares that may make it difficult to sit back and enjoy a spot of light reading.
For cosy seating areas, diffused lighting can be used to create an inviting atmosphere. This can be achieved by using light fixtures, such as chandeliers or cluster lighting, to provide the space with a warming glow.
It is a great idea to consider the style of the café lighting you will choose. From vintage pendants that enhance a unique or retro style, to cluster lights that create a clean contemporary feel.
A consistent lighting style throughout the café can help to form a cohesive space. However, you could make use of unique lighting fixtures in spaces such as a snug. A stylish light feature could be used as a conversation starter, or just something for customers to sit back and admire.
What are some popular Cafe lighting ideas?
The right lighting for the café is the perfect mix between functionality and style. Consider, for example, whether you want the cafe lighting to accommodate avid readers or offer more of a relaxing ambience. This should determine how much light you need and guide you in creating the layout for your coffee shop lighting fixtures. Once you’ve ticked all the functional boxes, think about how the café lights will make customers feel. You want to select cafe lighting that leaves a lasting impression and gives visitors an idea of your brand identity at a glance.
The most successful cafe lighting concepts are ones that make a statement about the character of your café, while also welcoming new and returning customers inside. Here are some ways to effectively achieve that:
Lounge Area
If you’re looking to create a lounge atmosphere with your café lighting, we suggest a light fixture such as a cluster light combined with decorative warm colour temperature bulbs, will help to produce a relaxing space that will keep customers coming back.
Above the Counter
The counter is an important part of a café. This is where you will greet guests and serve refreshments, so getting this part of the café lighting right is key to creating your desired space. Decorative pendant lights make fantastic café counter lighting – just picture those beautifully illuminated food displays!
Seating areas
For customers who love a good book with their coffee, you will need lighting that will provide sufficient light for reading. What’s more, be extra generous with the placement of your café lighting fixtures – place at least one above each piece of furniture (armchairs, sofas, lounge chairs) to ensure readers have plenty of choice when it comes to seating.
need a little help?
If you are struggling to choose café lighting, get in touch. Our team will be happy to discuss your lighting options and the best positioning and style for your space.
