Complete Kitchen Lighting Guide: LED Lights and Creative Ideas

Kitchen Lighting Ideas: How to Create a Bright and Stylish Space

Lighting plays a crucial role in making your kitchen both functional and inviting. Whether you’re preparing a meal, enjoying family time, or entertaining guests, the right lighting can elevate the entire space. Here are some creative kitchen lighting ideas to transform your kitchen with modern features like LED strip lights, pendant lighting, and glass-fronted cupboards.

LED Strip Lighting for Under Cabinets

LED strip lighting under cabinets is a practical and stylish choice. These slim, energy-efficient lights provide a soft yet focused glow over countertops, making meal prep easier while adding a modern touch.

Advantages:

  • Eliminates shadows from overhead lighting.
  • Offers a range of colour temperatures to suit your décor.
  • Easy to install and cost-effective.

Pro Tip: Opt for warm white light to create a cosy atmosphere, or cool white for a sleek, contemporary look.

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LED Strip lighting supplied by the team at Bespoke Lighting

Custom Kitchen Te Kowhai

Featured above: A custom made Alloy Linea Pendant from Bespoke Lighting. Learn More

Pendant Lighting Above the Bench

Pendant lights are a favourite choice for island benches, offering both task lighting and a decorative statement.

Styles to Consider:

  • Industrial-style pendants for a modern look.
  • Glass or metal shades for timeless elegance.
  • Clustered pendants for larger island benches.

Pro Tip: Hang pendants at a height of 75-90 cm above the island to avoid glare and ensure proper illumination.

LED Strip Lighting Under Island Benches or Breakfast Bars

Adding LED strip lighting under your island bench or breakfast bar is a stylish way to make it a standout feature. This lighting enhances the visual appeal while serving practical purposes, such as creating a soft glow for early mornings or late evenings.

Benefits:

  • Adds depth and definition to the island bench.
  • Creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for social gatherings.
  • Ideal for open-plan kitchens where the island is a focal point.

Pro Tip: Install RGB LED strips to customise the colour for different moods or occasions, such as soft white for everyday use or warm tones for entertaining.

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Toe Kick Lighting with LED Strips

For an unexpected yet eye-catching feature, install LED strip lighting along the toe kicks of your cabinetry. This subtle detail creates a floating effect, adding depth and sophistication to your kitchen.

Uses:

  • Great for nighttime navigation.
  • Enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space.
 

Pro Tip: Use motion-sensor LEDs for toe kicks to save energy and add a functional touch.

 

Lighting for Glass-Fronted Cupboards

Glass-fronted cupboards can showcase your finest dishware or glassware, and adding interior lighting takes it up a notch.

  • LED Puck Lights or Strips: Place these lights inside the cabinets to highlight your display items and create a luxurious ambience.
  • Accent Lighting: Soft lighting in glass cupboards works as a decorative element while providing additional illumination.

Pro Tip: Combine dimmable lights with smart controls for flexibility in brightness.

Custom country style kitchen with glass door over cupboards and LED lighting
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LED Strip Lighting Under Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are a sleek addition to any kitchen, and adding LED strip lighting underneath them takes their look to the next level. This type of lighting is perfect for displaying decorative items, cookbooks, or even spices.

Uses and Advantages:

  • Creates a soft glow, reducing the need for overhead lights.
  • Highlights your décor or kitchenware displayed on the shelves.
  • Helps maintain a clean and minimalist aesthetic.

 

Pro Tip: Choose diffused LED strips to avoid harsh shadows and ensure an even distribution of light across the shelf.

Transform Your Kitchen Design With These Lighting Ideas

Lighting is a key element in creating a functional and beautiful kitchen. From LED strip lighting under cabinets and floating shelves to pendant lights above the island bench, there are countless ways to add personality and practicality to your space.

If you’re looking for a kitchen with extra creative flair, contact the team at Montage Kitchens & Joinery for a truly unique kitchen designed just for you. Let’s bring your vision to life!

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