These cabinet lighting ideas can completely change the way your kitchen looks and feels.
Adding thoughtful lighting makes your new cabinets more functional and more intentional. The right lighting gives you better visibility for cooking, highlights your design choices, and creates a welcoming mood.
Here are 10 cabinet lighting ideas to help you decide what works best for your home.
1. Toe Kick Cabinet Lighting
Toe kick lighting is one of the most understated yet impactful upgrades. Installed along the base of your lower cabinets, it casts a soft glow across the floor.
This makes your kitchen feel larger, adds safety at night, and creates a warm ambiance. Choose a dimmable option so you can adjust the brightness throughout the day.
2. Cabinet Lighting Around the Range Hood
Adding lights on either side of your range hood gives you better task lighting and adds symmetry. Many people skip this area, but those extra fixtures help you see what you’re cooking without shadows.
Use directional sconces or recessed lights aimed at the stove. This also makes your backsplash shine and gives your kitchen a more finished look.
3. Puck Lighting Under Floating Shelves
Puck lights are small, round, and perfect for floating shelves. They create pools of light that highlight decor or brighten the counter below.
Space them evenly for a clean look. If you’re showcasing decorative bowls or glassware, this draws the eye without overpowering the shelves.
4. Strip Lighting Under Floating Shelves
For a more uniform look, use strip lights under floating shelves. They provide a continuous line of light that feels modern and clean.
This is ideal for long shelves where you want even illumination. Choose warm white for a cozy feel or cool white for a crisp, bright effect.
5. Cabinet Lighting in Small Display Cabinets
Small display cabinets are perfect for showing off glassware or collectibles. Lighting inside makes everything stand out, especially behind glass doors. You only need a little integrated lighting to make your display pop.
6. Cabinet Lighting in Large Display Cabinets
For larger display cabinets, aim for even coverage. Install lighting at the top and bottom or use vertical strips on both sides.
If your cabinet has multiple shelves, make sure light reaches all levels. Adjustable shelf lighting lets you change the setup later without rewiring.
7. Drawer Lighting
Drawer lighting solves a real problem: dark drawers. No more fumbling for utensils or spices.
Thin LED strips installed inside drawers turn on when you open them. Motion sensors make this effortless and save energy by switching off when closed.
8. Cabinet Lighting Behind Backsplash Panels
A unique option is lighting behind a glass or acrylic backsplash panel. This creates a soft glow that adds depth to your kitchen.
This works best with one solid panel and no grout lines.
9. Under Cabinet Lighting for Everyday Use
Under cabinet lighting is one of the most practical upgrades. It brightens your counters for cooking, cleaning, and reading recipes.
Use LED strips or slim bar fixtures under your upper cabinets. Dimmable options let you adjust brightness for any task. Match the color temperature to the rest of your lighting for a cohesive look.
10. Lighting Above Floating Shelves
Adding fixtures above floating shelves highlights what’s displayed and creates a layered lighting look.
Pendant lights, wall-mounted fixtures, or mini spotlights above shelves make the whole area feel designed and intentional.
Which Cabinet Lighting Should You Try First?
Start with the areas where you need light most. If you cook at night, under cabinet and range hood lighting will make a big difference. If you entertain often, toe kick and display cabinet lighting add style and atmosphere.
Keep in mind:
Match the color temperature of all your lights for a consistent look.
Use dimmable options wherever possible.
Work with a professional if you’re unsure about placement or wiring.
Cabinet lighting makes your kitchen easier to use and more enjoyable to spend time in. Which one will you try first?
If you need more kitchen lighting ideas check out this article from Elle.
