Over Kitchen Sink Lighting

As part of my ongoing (never ending?) kitchen update, I recently upgraded the light over the kitchen sink. Changing out lights is one of my favorite easy upgrades that have a big impact in any space. As part of this remodel, I knew I wanted something simple, black, and modern to keep with the minimalist vibes. There were so many kitchen lighting options, I rounded up 7 of my favorite light fixtures here that would all look great above the sink! And because there was a boring can light here before, read below to see how I easily replaced that out and changed the whole look of this kitchen space.

One question that has come up is whether you should put a light over the kitchen sink window at all? For me, this was an easy choice, not only is it functional as a task light but it really filled that space.

So, this kitchen has seen a lot of changes. Replacing the light was one of my little updates that made a big difference (along with a complete remodel). In fact, changing out the light above the sink made such a big impact, I included this diy project as one of my Easy Home Updates Under $200 list!

Here’s a reminder of this space before the remodel started! Obviously there are some big changes with countertops, tile, and cabinets but also notice the boring can light that doesn’t really do much for this wide area. It would’ve been just fine to keep it as is, but I thought adding a pendant light over the kitchen sink would add more design interest and contrast.

Above the Sink Kitchen Lights

I chose this kitchen pendant light because I wanted something that would break up some of this wide space. Of course, I love the big window and the pendant light only comes down slightly below it. In choosing the fixture color, I went for matte black because I really like contrast against the woven wood shades and white tile.

Speaking of these woven wood shades , they are some of my favorite and the same ones I used in my last home. I created an entire post on the Best Woven Wood Shades with more details. I love how the add texture and layer to the kitchen.

Now, as I mentioned, I did some serious searching for fixtures that would work well as over kitchen sink lighting. They all have a modern, minimal vibe and made my favorites list.

1. Dome Shade Pendant Light – Classic and timeless, great for soft ambient lighting
2. Flush Mount Ball Light Fixture – Ideal for lower ceilings, adds a subtle modern touch
3. Small Flush Mount Light – Simple, sleek, and great for small spaces – used this in my last kitchen
4. Black Pendant Light with Glass Shade (I chose this one!) – Glass shade is great in front of a window
5. Modern Metal Shade Hanging Pendant Light – A bold statement piece for modern kitchens
6. Black Flush Mount Cone Light – A mix of industrial and modern design
7. Flush Mount Bell Light – Compact and perfect for mid century or modern kitchens

How to Change Out Can Lights?

Since there was an existing can light over the kitchen sink, it wasn’t as simple as swapping one fixture pfor another. Normally, replacing a recessed light requires an electrician or someone more knowledgeable to install a proper fixture box and patch up the drywall.

Well, I wasn’t about to do all that. To keep things simple and budget-friendly, I used a Recessed Light Converter Kit. This made the process super easy—it covered the existing hole and used the same wiring. If you’re dealing with a can light and don’t want to get into major electrical work, I highly recommend this option.

One thing though – The converter kit only comes in white (at least that I could find), and since I wanted a seamless look, I spray-painted it matte black before installation.

If you’re swapping out one basic ceiling light for another, it’s usually pretty simple. I’ve included this diy project on my Updates You Can Do in 10 Minutes or Less list – high impact, low effort.

For safety, you don’t want lights too close to water. There’s not US building code regulations but you might check building codes in your area. Typically, kitchen pendant lights are about 36-40″ above the counter. Of course, if you’re choosing one of the smaller, semi flush mount options, this isn’t an issue.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I’m really happy with this pendant light update – it was a small detail in this big ol remodel but made a world of difference. Replacing the can light immediately added some modern vibes and took about 30 minutes total. Hopefully this gives you some ideas for over kitchen sink lighting updates you can easily do in your home.