How a Little-Known Lighting Detail in Cameron Diaz’s Kitchen Made Me Question Everything About My Own Design Choices

When I think of Cameron Diaz, the first thing that comes to my mind isn't the long list of classic movies she stars in, but instead, her rather chic kitchen. Featuring plenty of Carrara marble and some rather chic wooden cabinets, Cameron Diaz's kitchen is a lesson in quiet luxury.

I'm all too familiar with Cameron's kitchen. In fact, I seem to gaze at it every time she posts a snap. However, what I hadn't before noticed was the rather unexpected (and rather chic) picture light hanging above her shelves.

Typically found in libraries and snugs, I'd not considered adding a picture light like Cameron's to a kitchen (I particularly love the Palmer Metal Picture Light from Pottery Barn), but now I've seen it, I'm convinced it will provide a warm, cozy glow that makes any space feel more refined and curated.

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Cameron's kitchen has plenty of chic accessories. From the charming picture light to the ceramic bowls that grace her shelves, you'll be pleased to know that recreating the look at home is pretty simple with these timeless pieces.

Kitchen lighting ideas typically consist of overhanging pendant lights or large flush mounts, designed to provide ample illumination whilst cooking. So, you can see why Cameron's vintage-style picture light is refreshingly unique.

Fixed to the wall above Cameron's kitchen shelves, the gold picture light has an Art Deco feel in both shape and material, adding a lived-in charm to the space. It also provides intention, giving the rather simple arrangement of ceramics on a shelf some gentle illumination – just enough to provide impact.

Paul McManus, President at McManus Kitchen and Bath explains, 'Kitchens are workspaces and need dedicated task lighting, but that does not mean they won't benefit from a little ambiance too! Picture lights are one of our favorite ways to add accent or mood lighting to a kitchen. You can use them to highlight art pieces or use them more like a sconce, like Cameron Diaz has done here.'

Paul adds, 'Always remember to include 3 types of lighting in a space: general light (typically ceiling lights – low glare LEDs are our go to), task lighting to light work areas and reading areas, and accent lighting to add warmth and layering (in the kitchen, a toe kick light, picture light or sconce works great).'

Usually, you'd see lights like these on a bookshelf, designed to light up the many spines housed here. Whether it's a home office or a living room, picture lights are a thoughtful addition that can make a rather simple case of books feel inviting and cozy. You wouldn't think they'd work in a kitchen, but Cameron's simple yet stylish set-up proves that rethinking tradition isn't always a bad thing.

Cameron's chic shelving corner might at first seem simple, but the longer you look, the more the design unfolds. Giving the area purpose, the small but rather impactful picture light illuminates and shines, making conventional shelves feel artfully curated.