4 Favorite Places for Cabinetry Lighting

Lightning is an element of kitchen design that can be easily overlooked, but makes a world of difference. Proper lighting completely transforms the look and feel of your kitchen, turning it from a simple workspace into a warm, inviting environment where family and friends naturally gather. The right lightning doesn’t just enhance the aesthetics of your kitchen, it also improves functionality, safety, and even your mood. Whether your chopping veggies, hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet breakfast, the way your kitchen is lit can influence your experience. Carefully consider where and how to place your lighting, so you can highlight your kitchen’s best features.

Here are our favorite places for cabinetry lighting:

Countertop Lighting – The absolute must-have in any kitchen is light bars or light ribbons beneath wall cabinets to brighten countertops for prep work. This lighting not only enhances safety but also highlights the beauty of your countertops, especially if you have chosen a material that you love, like marble or quartz, deserved to be showcased.

Display Cabinet Lighting – Maybe it’s a little too obvious that you’d want to illuminate crystal and colorful items displayed behind glass. Cabinets with glass shelves and doors with glass inserts cry out for light. Puck lights recessed into the top of the cabinet shower light down on to your valuables, creating a stunning display. The right lighting can make even the simplest items look like treasured heirlooms, adding an elegant glow to your kitchen.

Open Shelf Lighting – Not all displays are behind glass. Open shelving is as popular as ever and is a great place for light bars, light ribbons, or puck lights beneath an upper shelf to highlight items displayed on the shelf below. This type of lighting is ideal for showcasing cookbooks, decorative plates, or plants, giving your kitchen a warm, inviting feel.

Floor Lighting – Another mood setter, light bars or light ribbons at the bottom of base cabinets. Of course, anyone who has ever stubbed a toe on the way to a midnight snack will appreciate toe kick night lights. These lights are not just practical, but can also enhance the overall aesthetic of your kitchen by creating a floating effect for your cabinets, adding a modern, sleek touch.

Conclusion

Properly lighting your kitchen cabinets isn’t just about functionality—it’s about creating a space that feels welcoming and looks stunning. By strategically placing different types of lighting throughout your kitchen, you can enhance both the usability and the beauty of the space, making it a place where you love to spend time. Whether you’re whipping up a meal, entertaining guests, or just enjoying a quiet cup of coffee, the right lighting can make all the difference.