Kitchen lighting is so crucial and should be one of the first things people think about when theyre designing or remodeling a kitchen, but it often gets last priority, says lighting consultant and interior designer Lisa Duncan. People spend tens of thousands on their kitchens, but then you cant see the new improvements or what youre doing if the lighting isnt right.But instead of starting over you can transform your kitchen with updated lighting. Key areas to look at areOver the sink - this is a focal point in the kitchen both for style and function. Why not add a statement light as well over the area, one that throws plenty of light down over the sink so you can see what you are doing.Under the cabinets - lighting here is important for task lighting, and also for ambient light for entertaining. Install under-cabinet lights toward the front of the bottom of a cabinet. Lights installed at the back creates uneven light with bright spots and shadows on the work surface.Plinth lighting - highlight your floor and create more ambience with lights in the plinth panel. This creates a subtle effect and low light levels for that middle of night drink.Ceiling lighting - create clean lines with recessed downlights ensuring you have enough to light the room brightly for cooking etc. If you install them in banks you can alter the light levels for the activity or function. LED lighting will reduce costs and enable you to install more lighting while spending less on energy.