Use a fast, safe rule that keeps the island usable:

• Fixture (or grouped fixture cluster) width ≈ ⅔ of the island’s length​ (commonly 60%–70%).
  
• Leave ≈ 6 in (15 cm)​ clearance on each long side so the light doesn’t feel crammed against the backsplash or walkway.
  
• If you’re doing 2 or 3 separate drops​ instead of one linear bar:
  Keep each shade ≈ 10–14 in (25–35 cm) wide​ for typical 24–36 in islands.
  Space them evenly, and keep ≥ 6 in (15 cm)​ from island ends; centers often land around 24–30 in (60–75 cm)​ apart depending on island length.

The proven sweet spot:

• Bottom of fixture 30–36 in (75–90 cm)​ above the countertop.
  
• That usually puts the lowest point ≈ 72–78 in (183–198 cm)​ AFF (above finished floor) on standard 36 in (91 cm) counters—tall enough for most adults to stand under safely, low enough to light the work surface.
  
• If ceilings are > 9 ft (275 cm), you can let it drop a bit more only ifthe fixture is slim/linear and you won’t block sightlines to the living area; when in doubt, favor 36 in above counter​ as a clean cap.

Glare ruins prep. Fix it in order:

1. Shade shape / lens: pick downward-directed​ or enclosed/frosted​ optics; drum shades or etched glass beat naked clear bulbs for kitchens.
   
2. Height: don’t raise it above 36 in above counter​ “just because it looks cool”—you’ll get more bare-bulb-in-eyes.
   
3. Bulb choice: use warm but not yellow​ and keep the filament/chip hidden. If you see the source from a normal standing position, it’s wrong for a kitchen island.

Kitchens want “clean + cozy”:

• 3000K​ is the modern default (crisp but still inviting).
  
• Many clients pick 2700K–3000K​ for open-plan homes so the island doesn’t clash with living-room warm tones.
  
• Aim CRI 90+​ if you care about judging meat color, herbs, and plating—standard “cheap LED” CRI 80 can make food look a bit flat.
  
• Tip: your under-cabinet lights​ can run slightly cooler (if you have them), but the island hero light should stay in that 2700–3000K​ band for resale-friendly appeal.