Functional American Classic Kitchen Design

The American Classic kitchen: a timeless blend of practicality and aesthetic charm. This design philosophy, rooted in historical influences and refined over decades, prioritizes functionality without sacrificing elegance. We will explore the core principles of this style, delving into optimal layouts, material selections, storage solutions, and the strategic integration of modern technology, all while preserving the enduring appeal of the classic aesthetic.

From the meticulous placement of appliances to the careful consideration of lighting and color palettes, each element contributes to a cohesive and highly functional space. This exploration will provide a comprehensive guide to crafting a kitchen that is both beautiful and efficient, a true testament to timeless design principles.

This investigation will dissect the elements that define a functional American Classic kitchen, contrasting it with contemporary styles like modern and farmhouse designs. We’ll examine the historical context, analyzing the evolution of this design aesthetic and its enduring relevance in today’s homes. The exploration will extend to detailed layout planning, including space optimization techniques for kitchens of varying sizes.

We will delve into the science of the work triangle, a cornerstone of efficient kitchen design, and explore the best materials and finishes for durability and visual appeal. Finally, we will address the integration of modern technology and smart appliances within the framework of a classic design, ensuring a harmonious blend of old-world charm and contemporary convenience.

Defining “Functional American Classic Kitchen Design”

The American Classic kitchen style, while evoking a sense of timeless elegance, is fundamentally defined by its prioritization of both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. This design philosophy blends traditional elements with a focus on efficient workflow and user-friendly ergonomics, creating a space that is both visually pleasing and highly effective for culinary activities. Its enduring popularity stems from its adaptability to various home sizes and lifestyles, making it a versatile choice for modern homeowners.

Core characteristics of the American Classic kitchen style include a commitment to quality materials, such as solid wood cabinetry and durable countertops (often granite or butcher block). Clean lines and symmetrical layouts are prevalent, often incorporating elements of Shaker or Georgian design. A neutral color palette, frequently featuring creamy whites, warm beiges, and soft grays, creates a sense of calm and sophistication.

The incorporation of stainless steel appliances, while a relatively modern addition, seamlessly integrates with the classic aesthetic, enhancing the kitchen’s functional capabilities.

Key Functional Elements in American Classic Kitchen Design

Functionality in an American Classic kitchen is achieved through a thoughtful arrangement of elements designed to optimize workflow. This involves the strategic placement of appliances, ample counter space, and sufficient storage solutions. The “work triangle,” a fundamental principle of kitchen design, is meticulously observed, ensuring that the sink, stove, and refrigerator are positioned to minimize unnecessary movement during food preparation.

Well-organized cabinetry, often featuring both upper and lower units with pull-out drawers and shelves, maximizes storage capacity and accessibility. Good lighting, both ambient and task-specific, further enhances the functionality of the space.

Comparison with Other Kitchen Styles

The American Classic kitchen differs significantly from modern and farmhouse styles. Modern kitchens prioritize minimalism and sleek lines, often featuring stainless steel and glass, while lacking the warmth and traditional detailing of the American Classic. Farmhouse kitchens, conversely, emphasize rustic charm with exposed beams, reclaimed wood, and vintage-inspired fixtures. While both modern and farmhouse styles can be functional, they lack the balanced blend of elegance and practicality that defines the American Classic.

The American Classic avoids the starkness of the modern and the sometimes overwhelming rusticity of the farmhouse, offering a sophisticated yet user-friendly environment.

Historical Influences on American Classic Kitchen Design

The American Classic kitchen design draws inspiration from various historical periods and cultural influences. Elements of Shaker simplicity, with its clean lines and unadorned cabinetry, are often incorporated. Georgian architecture, known for its symmetry and graceful proportions, also contributes to the overall aesthetic. The rise of mass-produced appliances in the mid-20th century significantly impacted kitchen design, enabling the integration of functionality without sacrificing style.

The evolution of the American Classic kitchen reflects a continuous adaptation of traditional principles to accommodate modern conveniences and lifestyles, resulting in a timeless and enduring design.

Layout and Space Optimization

Efficient kitchen design hinges on thoughtful layout and space optimization. The American Classic style, characterized by its blend of functionality and timeless aesthetics, necessitates a careful consideration of workflow, storage, and appliance placement to maximize both efficiency and visual appeal. Ergonomics and the principles of the work triangle play crucial roles in achieving a truly functional space.

Optimizing space in an American Classic kitchen requires understanding the principles of workflow and applying them to various kitchen sizes. A well-planned layout minimizes unnecessary movement, ensuring smooth transitions between food preparation, cooking, and cleaning. The work triangle, connecting the sink, stovetop, and refrigerator, is a key element in this optimization process.

American Classic Kitchen Layouts

Three distinct layouts cater to different kitchen sizes, each prioritizing the work triangle and efficient storage solutions within the constraints of the American Classic aesthetic. These designs emphasize functionality without sacrificing the style’s inherent charm.

Layout	Appliance Placement	Work Triangle	Storage Solutions
Small Kitchen (Galley)	Refrigerator on one side, stovetop and sink opposite, maximizing linear space. Microwave above the stovetop or in a dedicated cabinet.	Linear work triangle, minimizing steps between appliances.	Maximize vertical space with tall cabinets and drawers. Utilize narrow, deep cabinets for efficient storage. Pot rack above the island or counter.
Medium Kitchen (L-Shaped)	Refrigerator in one corner, sink in another, stovetop forming the third point of the L. This layout provides ample counter space.	L-shaped work triangle, promoting efficient movement between key areas.	Base cabinets with drawers and doors. Upper cabinets with glass doors for showcasing china or glassware. Corner pantry for additional storage.
Large Kitchen (Island)	Refrigerator along one wall, stovetop and sink on a counter run, with an island incorporating a secondary sink or prep area.	Multiple work triangles, enabling simultaneous food preparation and cooking.	Extensive cabinetry, including a built-in pantry. Island provides additional storage and counter space. Open shelving for displaying cookbooks or decorative items.

The Importance of the Work Triangle

The work triangle, formed by the refrigerator, sink, and stovetop, is a fundamental principle of kitchen design. The ideal distance between each point should be between 4 and 9 feet to minimize wasted steps and maximize efficiency. A well-designed work triangle promotes a smooth workflow, reducing the time and energy spent on cooking and cleaning. An inefficient work triangle can lead to congestion and unnecessary movement.

The sum of the three sides of the work triangle should ideally be between 13 and 26 feet.

Space-Saving Techniques for American Classic Kitchens

Space optimization in an American Classic kitchen often requires creative solutions that maintain the style’s integrity. Several techniques help maximize available space without compromising the aesthetic appeal.

• Pull-out shelving and drawers: These maximize accessibility in deep cabinets.
• Vertical storage: Tall cabinets and ceiling-height shelving utilize otherwise wasted vertical space.
• Multi-functional appliances: An appliance that performs multiple functions, such as a microwave-convection oven combination, saves valuable counter and cabinet space.
• Built-in appliances: Seamlessly integrating appliances into the cabinetry creates a clean, streamlined look while saving space.
• Slim-profile appliances: Choosing appliances with a smaller footprint allows for more counter space.

Essential Appliances and Optimal Placement

Selecting and placing essential appliances strategically is critical to kitchen functionality. Careful consideration of both appliance size and workflow is essential for maximizing efficiency within the American Classic design.

• Refrigerator: Typically placed along a wall, away from heat sources.
• Stovetop/Oven: Located near the sink and prep area for easy access to water and countertops.
• Sink: Positioned for efficient workflow between the stovetop and refrigerator.
• Dishwasher: Ideally placed next to the sink for easy loading and unloading.
• Microwave: Can be above the stovetop, built into a cabinet, or placed on a counter.

Materials and Finishes

The selection of materials and finishes is paramount in achieving the timeless elegance and enduring functionality characteristic of an American Classic kitchen design. These choices directly impact not only the aesthetic appeal but also the longevity, maintenance requirements, and overall user experience of the space. The careful consideration of material properties, alongside a keen eye for color and texture coordination, is crucial to realizing a truly successful design.

Countertop Materials: Durability and Maintenance

Countertops form the functional heart of any kitchen, enduring daily wear and tear. The choice of material significantly impacts both durability and maintenance needs. Granite, a natural stone, boasts exceptional hardness and resistance to scratches and heat. However, it requires regular sealing to prevent staining and etching, and its porous nature necessitates careful cleaning to avoid harboring bacteria. Butcher block, crafted from hardwood, offers a warm, rustic aesthetic and is naturally antimicrobial.

Its resilience to cuts makes it ideal for food preparation, but it requires regular oiling to maintain its integrity and prevent drying. Quartz, an engineered stone, combines the beauty of natural stone with enhanced durability and low maintenance. It is non-porous, resistant to stains and scratches, and requires minimal upkeep, making it a popular choice for busy households.

A comparison of these three materials highlights the trade-offs between aesthetic appeal, practical functionality, and maintenance demands. For example, while granite offers a luxurious look, its maintenance demands exceed those of quartz. Butcher block’s inherent warmth and practicality are balanced by its need for consistent oiling.

Cabinetry Materials and Finishes

Cabinetry forms the structural backbone of the kitchen, defining its character and storage capacity. Solid wood cabinetry, often made from maple, cherry, or oak, provides exceptional durability and a classic aesthetic. Its inherent warmth and ability to age gracefully make it a prized material in American Classic design. However, solid wood requires regular care and is susceptible to moisture damage.

Painted cabinetry, on the other hand, offers a wider range of color options and is easier to maintain. A high-quality paint finish provides excellent protection against scratches and moisture. The choice between solid wood and painted cabinetry hinges on balancing aesthetic preference with practical considerations, such as budget and maintenance commitment.

Color Palettes and Finishes

The American Classic kitchen style frequently employs a restrained color palette, often featuring neutral tones such as creamy whites, warm beiges, and soft grays. These serve as a backdrop for accent colors, which might include subtle blues, greens, or yellows, found in backsplashes or accessories. Finishes tend towards matte or satin, avoiding high-gloss which can appear too modern.

The use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, further enhances the timeless appeal of the design. Examples include a kitchen with creamy white cabinetry, granite countertops in a soft gray, and a pale blue backsplash, or a kitchen with warm beige cabinetry, butcher block countertops, and yellow-toned accessories. These choices work in harmony to create a space that is both elegant and functional.

Mood Board: A Visual Representation

Imagine a mood board showcasing the textures and colors of a functional American Classic kitchen. The central element is a swatch of creamy white paint, representing the cabinetry. Next to it lies a sample of honed granite, its subtle veining hinting at the natural beauty of the material. A piece of light oak butcher block, its grain clearly visible, adds a touch of rustic warmth.

Smaller swatches of pale blue and soft gray represent the backsplash and accent colors. Finally, a piece of textured linen fabric, reminiscent of a classic kitchen towel, adds a touch of tactile warmth and reinforces the overall sense of refined simplicity. The overall effect is a cohesive and balanced visual narrative, illustrating the careful interplay of materials, colors, and textures that defines the American Classic style.

Storage and Organization

Efficient storage is paramount in any kitchen, but especially crucial in an American Classic design where aesthetics and functionality must coexist seamlessly. The principles of ergonomics and space optimization are key to creating a kitchen that is both beautiful and highly usable, minimizing wasted movement and maximizing workflow efficiency. A well-organized kitchen reduces stress and enhances the overall cooking experience.

Smart storage solutions in an American Classic kitchen leverage a combination of traditional design elements with modern organizational techniques. This involves thoughtful consideration of cabinet layouts, pantry design, and appliance placement to create a space that is both visually appealing and highly functional. The goal is to maximize storage capacity while maintaining the timeless elegance characteristic of this style.

Cabinet Organization Ideas

Cabinet organization is foundational to a functional American Classic kitchen. The strategic use of interior cabinet organizers dramatically increases storage capacity and accessibility. This goes beyond simply stacking dishes; it involves a systematic approach to maximizing vertical and horizontal space.

• Pull-out shelves and drawers: These allow for easy access to items stored at the back of deep cabinets, eliminating the need to rummage through piles of cookware or dishes. Imagine a pull-out spice rack neatly organizing your collection, instantly accessible instead of hidden in the back of a cabinet.
• Adjustable shelving: Customizable shelving adapts to various item heights and sizes, optimizing space for pots, pans, and other items of varying dimensions. A system allowing for adjustable shelves lets you customize the height to accommodate a large stand mixer or a collection of cookie sheets, without wasted space above or below.
• Drawer dividers: These keep utensils, cutlery, and other small items organized and easily accessible. Imagine neatly separated drawers, with each utensil having its own dedicated space, preventing clutter and improving efficiency.
• Vertical dividers: These maximize vertical space in cabinets by creating sections for plates, bowls, or other items that can be stacked vertically. A system of vertical dividers transforms a single cabinet into a space-efficient storage solution for multiple plate sizes.

Pantry Solutions

The pantry is the heart of efficient food storage. Designing a highly functional pantry within the context of an American Classic kitchen requires a blend of aesthetics and practicality. Careful planning ensures easy access to all stored items while maintaining the overall design harmony.

1. Pull-out pantry shelves: These provide full visibility and accessibility to all stored items, eliminating the frustration of searching for hidden ingredients. Imagine a pantry with smooth-gliding shelves, offering a complete view of all canned goods, spices, and dry goods.
2. Designated zones: Organize the pantry by food category (canned goods, baking supplies, snacks, etc.) to streamline retrieval. This method reduces search time and makes it easy to find specific items.
3. Clear containers: Using clear containers allows for easy identification of contents, reducing waste from forgotten items. This not only improves organization but also minimizes food spoilage.
4. Labeling system: A clear and consistent labeling system further enhances organization and simplifies the process of locating specific items. A consistent labeling system prevents confusion and ensures quick identification of stored items.

Appliance Storage

Integrating appliances seamlessly into the American Classic kitchen design requires careful consideration of both functionality and aesthetics. Hidden appliance storage maintains the clean lines of the design while ensuring efficient use of space.

• Built-in appliance garages: These conceal smaller appliances like toasters, blenders, and coffee makers, maintaining a clutter-free countertop. Imagine a sleek, built-in cabinet concealing small appliances, creating a clean and uncluttered countertop.
• Designated appliance drawers: These provide dedicated storage for items like cutting boards and baking sheets, keeping them readily accessible. This approach improves organization and workflow efficiency.
• Under-counter refrigerator drawers: These maximize space efficiency and provide easy access to frequently used items. A compact, under-counter refrigerator drawer provides additional cold storage without compromising the kitchen’s design.

Custom Cabinetry Features Enhancing Functionality

Custom cabinetry offers unparalleled opportunities to tailor storage solutions to specific needs and preferences. By incorporating specific features, one can optimize storage capacity and enhance the overall functionality of the kitchen.

• Deep drawers for pots and pans: These accommodate large cookware while maintaining easy accessibility. Imagine deep, smoothly gliding drawers that comfortably hold your largest pots and pans, readily accessible without having to rummage through stacked items.
• Corner cabinet solutions: Lazy Susans or pull-out corner shelves eliminate wasted space in often-unused corner cabinets. A well-designed corner cabinet system maximizes space utilization and prevents items from being lost in the back of the cabinet.
• Built-in spice racks: These provide easy access to frequently used spices while keeping them neatly organized. A dedicated spice rack integrated into the cabinetry keeps spices readily available without cluttering the countertops.

Designing a Highly Functional Pantry: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a highly functional pantry involves a methodical approach, balancing aesthetic appeal with practical considerations. The following steps Artikel a process for designing an optimal pantry within an American Classic kitchen.

1. Assess needs and inventory: Begin by taking stock of existing pantry items and anticipating future needs. This inventory informs the design of the pantry’s storage capacity and configuration.
2. Measure the space: Accurate measurements are crucial for planning the layout and selecting appropriate storage solutions. Accurate measurements ensure the pantry design fits the available space perfectly.
3. Choose storage solutions: Select storage solutions (shelves, drawers, containers) that maximize space and accessibility while maintaining the American Classic aesthetic. The choice of storage solutions should complement the overall kitchen design.
4. Plan the layout: Arrange storage solutions to create distinct zones for different food categories. A well-planned layout ensures easy access to all stored items.
5. Install and organize: Install the chosen storage solutions and organize items according to the planned layout. Careful installation and organization ensure the pantry functions efficiently.

Lighting and Ambiance

The American Classic kitchen, with its emphasis on functionality and timeless elegance, demands a lighting plan that seamlessly integrates form and function. Proper illumination not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also significantly improves task performance and overall user experience within the space. A layered approach, incorporating ambient, task, and accent lighting, is crucial for achieving this balance.

The interplay of natural and artificial light sources is paramount in creating a welcoming and efficient culinary environment. Natural light, when maximized, reduces the need for artificial illumination during daytime hours, saving energy and promoting a connection with the outdoors. However, strategic placement of artificial lighting is essential for compensating for shadows and providing focused illumination for specific tasks.

Ambient Lighting in the American Classic Kitchen

Ambient lighting provides general illumination, setting the overall mood and brightness level of the kitchen. In an American Classic kitchen, this could be achieved through a combination of recessed lighting and a central pendant fixture. Recessed lights, strategically positioned across the ceiling, ensure even distribution of light, minimizing harsh shadows. A large, antique-style pendant light above the kitchen island acts as a focal point, adding a touch of classic charm.

The warm, soft light emitted by these fixtures creates a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for casual gatherings and family meals. The color temperature of the bulbs should be considered; warmer tones (2700-3000K) are generally preferred for creating a cozy and inviting ambiance.

Task Lighting for Enhanced Functionality

Task lighting focuses light directly onto work areas, minimizing eye strain and improving efficiency. Under-cabinet lighting is essential for illuminating countertops and sinks, making food preparation and cleanup easier. These lights can be integrated seamlessly into the cabinetry, maintaining a clean and uncluttered aesthetic. Additionally, adjustable swing-arm lights mounted to the wall provide focused illumination for specific tasks like chopping vegetables or reading recipes.

These fixtures offer flexibility, allowing users to direct the light precisely where it’s needed. For increased visibility, consider LED strip lights beneath upper cabinets, providing soft, diffused illumination across the work surfaces.

Accent Lighting to Highlight Architectural Details

Accent lighting is used to highlight architectural details and decorative elements, adding depth and visual interest to the space. In an American Classic kitchen, this could involve installing track lighting to showcase open shelving filled with vintage cookbooks or decorative pottery. Similarly, strategically placed spotlights can emphasize the beautiful grain of wooden cabinetry or the intricate detailing of a backsplash.

The use of dimmers allows for adjusting the intensity of accent lighting, creating different moods depending on the occasion. Consider using warmer-toned bulbs for accent lighting to create a more inviting and intimate atmosphere.

The Influence of Natural Light

Natural light is a crucial element in kitchen design, influencing both functionality and ambiance. Large windows, positioned strategically to maximize daylight exposure, contribute to a brighter, more cheerful kitchen. This abundant natural light reduces the reliance on artificial lighting, promoting energy efficiency and improving visibility during daylight hours. Furthermore, natural light improves mood and well-being, creating a more pleasant cooking environment.

However, careful consideration should be given to managing excessive sunlight to prevent glare and heat buildup, possibly incorporating window treatments like blinds or curtains.

Lighting Fixtures that Complement the American Classic Style

Several lighting fixtures complement the American Classic kitchen style. These include antique brass or nickel pendant lights with glass shades, reminiscent of vintage designs. Recessed lighting with brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze trims blends seamlessly into the ceiling, maintaining a clean aesthetic. Swing-arm wall lights with a classic design and adjustable arms provide both functionality and visual appeal.

Finally, the incorporation of decorative elements such as frosted glass shades or antique-style bulbs adds a touch of sophistication and elegance, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the kitchen. Choosing fixtures with a consistent finish, such as brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze, creates a cohesive and polished look.

Appliances and Technology

The heart of any functional kitchen, regardless of style, lies in its appliances. An American Classic kitchen, while emphasizing timeless aesthetics, benefits significantly from the incorporation of both essential and desirable appliances, thoughtfully integrated to enhance functionality without compromising its inherent charm. The careful selection and placement of these appliances, coupled with the strategic use of modern technology, elevates the kitchen’s efficiency and user experience.The integration of modern technology into a classic kitchen requires a delicate balance.

Smart appliances, while offering convenience and efficiency through features like remote control and automated functions, must be carefully chosen to complement, not clash with, the overall design. Subtle integration, such as seamlessly concealed control panels or appliances with classic styling, is key to preserving the timeless aesthetic. This approach ensures the technology enhances functionality without sacrificing the visual appeal of the traditional design.

Essential and Desirable Appliances for a Functional American Classic Kitchen

A functional American Classic kitchen requires a core set of appliances to support everyday cooking and food preparation. Essential appliances include a refrigerator, a range (oven and cooktop), a dishwasher, and a microwave. Desirable additions, enhancing convenience and culinary possibilities, include a garbage disposal, a built-in coffee maker, and a warming drawer. The selection of these appliances should consider factors such as size, energy efficiency, and their ability to seamlessly integrate into the classic design scheme.

For example, a refrigerator with panel-ready doors can be customized to match the cabinetry, maintaining a cohesive and unified look.

Integration of Modern Technology While Maintaining Classic Aesthetic

Smart appliances offer features that enhance convenience and efficiency, such as remote monitoring, automated scheduling, and voice control. However, their integration requires careful consideration to maintain the classic aesthetic. Appliances with classic styling, such as those featuring brushed nickel or stainless steel finishes with understated designs, are ideal. Concealing smart features, such as control panels within cabinetry or behind custom panels, can further enhance the seamless integration.

For instance, a smart refrigerator with a hidden control panel behind a custom wood panel maintains the classic aesthetic while still providing the benefits of smart technology. This approach ensures the modern technology enhances the functionality of the kitchen without sacrificing the charm of its traditional design.

Range and Oven Types Suitable for an American Classic Kitchen

The range and oven are central to an American Classic kitchen. Gas ranges, with their immediate responsiveness and precise temperature control, are a popular choice, often associated with a more traditional feel. Electric ranges offer ease of cleaning and consistent heat distribution. Dual-fuel ranges combine the benefits of both, featuring a gas cooktop for precise heat control and an electric oven for even baking.

The choice depends on personal preference and the overall design scheme. For instance, a freestanding gas range with a porcelain enamel finish can add a touch of classic elegance, while a built-in electric oven with a sleek stainless steel finish can seamlessly integrate into custom cabinetry. The style of the range and oven should complement the overall aesthetic of the kitchen.

Must-Have Kitchen Gadgets that Enhance Functionality Without Disrupting Classic Design

Certain kitchen gadgets can significantly enhance functionality without compromising the classic design aesthetic. A stand mixer, for example, is a versatile tool for baking and other culinary tasks, but it should be chosen in a classic design, perhaps in a cream or white color to complement the overall scheme. High-quality knives, stored in a magnetic strip or a classic knife block, are essential for efficient food preparation.

A well-designed cutting board, made from durable materials like wood or marble, adds both functionality and aesthetic appeal. These elements enhance the functionality of the kitchen without disrupting the classic design language, ensuring a seamless blend of form and function.

Closing Summary

Designing a functional American Classic kitchen is a journey into the harmonious blend of historical elegance and modern practicality. By carefully considering layout, material choices, storage solutions, and lighting, one can create a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly efficient. The careful integration of technology enhances functionality without compromising the timeless appeal of the classic style. Ultimately, the result is a kitchen that is not just a space for cooking, but a heart of the home—a testament to thoughtful design and enduring style.

The principles Artikeld here provide a roadmap for creating a kitchen that stands the test of time, a space where functionality and beauty coexist in perfect harmony.

Common Queries

What are some common challenges in designing a functional American Classic kitchen?

Balancing the desire for a classic aesthetic with the need for modern appliances and storage solutions can be challenging. Maintaining a cohesive design while incorporating updated technology requires careful planning and material selection.

How can I incorporate sustainable practices into my American Classic kitchen design?

Choose sustainable materials like reclaimed wood for cabinetry, bamboo countertops, and recycled glass tiles for backsplashes. Opt for energy-efficient appliances and consider water-saving fixtures.

What are the current trends in American Classic kitchen design?

Current trends include a blend of traditional and modern elements, incorporating updated hardware, sleek appliances, and a focus on natural light and open shelving while maintaining the core characteristics of the classic style.

How do I choose the right countertop material for my American Classic kitchen?

Consider durability, maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal. Granite and quartz offer durability and a variety of colors, while butcher block provides warmth and a rustic touch. The choice depends on your lifestyle and budget.

How can I maximize natural light in my American Classic kitchen?

Maximize natural light by using light-colored cabinetry and countertops, installing large windows, and incorporating skylights where possible. Strategically placed mirrors can also help reflect and amplify existing natural light.