Cabinet lighting is an often-overlooked element that can dramatically enhance the functionality and ambiance of various spaces in your home. From kitchens to bathrooms and laundry rooms, proper cabinet lighting can transform these areas into more efficient and visually appealing spaces. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of cabinet lighting, installation methods, and the benefits they bring to various rooms in your home.

Closet strip lighting

Types of Cabinet Lighting (by Type):

There are several types of cabinet lighting options available, each with its own advantages:

  1. LED Strip Lights: These flexible, adhesive-backed strips are energy-efficient and easy to install. They provide even illumination and can be cut to fit specific cabinet dimensions.
  2. Puck Lights: These small, circular lights are ideal for spot lighting and can be surface-mounted or recessed into cabinet bottoms.
  3. Linear LED Lights: These rigid light bars offer a sleek, modern look and provide consistent illumination across cabinet spaces.
  4. Tape Lights: Similar to LED strips but thinner and more flexible, tape lights are perfect for tight spaces and curved surfaces.

Types of Cabinet Lighting (by Location):

  1. Under-Cabinet Lights: These traditional fixtures are available in various styles and can accommodate different bulb types, including LED, fluorescent, or halogen.
  2. Above Cabinet Lights: Normally they are attached on the inside of the crown molding of the upper cabinet, that way it projects the light above the cabinet and not visible.
  3. Inner Cabinet Lights: These lights go inside of the cabinets and can be placed in different locations. This lighting has been gaining popularity and is widely requested.

Under cabinet light strips

It’s best to plan your lighting in during the initial design, so that proper electrical wiring can be run inside of the walls and behind the cabinets for seamless results. Cabinet lighting design and installation are included with the design and installation of the cabinetry. Contact Elite Cabinet Designs Team today for a consultation.

Installation Methods

Installing cabinet lighting can be a DIY project or a job for a professional, depending on your skill level and the complexity of the system. Here are some common installation methods:

  1. Plug-in Systems: These are the easiest to install, requiring only a nearby outlet. They’re ideal for renters or those who want a temporary solution.
  2. Hardwired Systems: These provide a cleaner look without visible cords but require more advanced electrical knowledge and may need professional installation.
  3. Battery-Operated Lights: These offer the most flexibility in terms of placement but require regular battery changes or recharging.
  4. Rechargeable LED Lights: These combine the convenience of battery-operated lights with the sustainability of rechargeable batteries.

Benefits of Cabinet Lighting in Different Spaces

Kitchen cabinet lighting

Kitchen

  1. Improved task lighting for food preparation
  2. Enhanced visibility inside cabinets
  3. Creates a warm, inviting ambiance
  4. Highlights decorative elements and backsplashes

Bathroom

  1. Better lighting for grooming tasks
  2. Adds a luxurious spa-like feel
  3. Illuminates hard-to-see areas in medicine cabinets
  4. Can serve as a gentle night light

Laundry Room

  1. Improves visibility for sorting and treating clothes
  2. Makes it easier to find cleaning supplies in cabinets
  3. Creates a more pleasant environment for household chores
  4. Can highlight organizational systems within cabinets

Closet lighting

Other Spaces

  1. Home Office: Illuminates bookshelves and storage areas
  2. Living Room: Highlights display cabinets and entertainment centers
  3. Bedroom: Provides soft, ambient lighting in closets and dressing areas
  4. Garage: Improves visibility in tool cabinets and workspaces

Tips for Choosing and Installing Cabinet Lighting

  1. Consider the color temperature of the lights (warm vs. cool) to match your space’s aesthetic.
  2. Opt for dimmable lights to adjust the brightness as needed.
  3. Ensure the lights are rated for the environment (e.g., moisture-resistant for bathrooms).
  4. Plan the wiring route before installation to minimize visible cords.
  5. Use diffusers or frosted covers to reduce glare and create a softer light.

Inside the drawer lighting

Cabinet lighting is a versatile and impactful addition to any home. Whether you’re looking to improve functionality in your kitchen, create a relaxing atmosphere in your bathroom, or simply add a touch of ambiance to your living spaces, there’s a cabinet lighting solution to fit your needs. With various types and installation methods available, you can easily find an option that suits your style and budget.

Elite Cabinet Design team of cabinet designers and installers is always here to answer any questions you might have. Contact us today by calling (850) 502-4957 or fill out the form and we will get in touch with you. Illuminate your cabinets and watch as your spaces come to life with newfound brilliance and utility!