art Lighting Design
Undercabinet Lighting by Illuminations Lighting
At Illuminations Lighting, we install undercabinet lighting systems that provide clean, functional illumination beneath cabinets and shelving. While undercabinet lighting is often associated with kitchens, it is also widely used in display areas, built-in cabinetry, and architectural features where controlled lighting improves visibility and highlights design details.
Our company has specialized in fine art and architectural lighting since 1985. Over the years we have installed undercabinet lighting systems in homes where precision lighting and discreet installation are essential. When designed correctly, undercabinet lighting enhances the space without drawing attention to the fixtures themselves.
Where Undercabinet Lighting Is Used
Undercabinet lighting is commonly installed wherever overhead cabinets or shelving create shadows over a working or display surface. By placing lighting beneath the cabinet, the area below becomes evenly illuminated.
This type of lighting is frequently used in:
- kitchen countertops and work areas
- built-in cabinetry and shelving
- display cabinets and art niches
- bookshelves and furniture displays
- bar areas and entertainment spaces
In many homes, undercabinet lighting also helps highlight decorative materials such as stone countertops, tile backsplashes, or wood cabinetry.
Lighting Display Cabinets and Built-In Furniture
Many homes include built-in cabinetry or furniture designed to display decorative objects, sculptures, or collectibles. In these cases, undercabinet lighting can be used to illuminate the items while keeping the lighting equipment concealed.
Because the lighting is installed beneath the cabinet or shelf, the objects below are illuminated evenly without visible fixtures.
We often install low profile LED lighting systems such as strip lighting for these applications. These systems provide consistent illumination while remaining nearly invisible once installed.
This approach allows the focus to remain on the objects being displayed.
Even Lighting Without Shadows
Overhead lighting can sometimes create shadows beneath cabinets or shelving. Undercabinet lighting eliminates these shadows by directing light exactly where it is needed.
Even illumination is particularly important in areas such as:
- kitchen preparation surfaces
- reading areas beneath shelves
- display cabinets containing artwork or collectibles
- built-in shelving used for decorative displays
By positioning the lighting beneath the cabinet, the surface below becomes easier to see while maintaining comfortable lighting in the surrounding room.
LED Lighting for Undercabinet Installations
Most modern undercabinet lighting systems use LED technology. LED lighting provides bright, consistent illumination while producing very little heat.
This makes LED lighting ideal for installations inside cabinets or near delicate materials.
LED lighting offers several advantages:
- low heat output
- no ultraviolet radiation
- long operating life
- energy efficient performance
These qualities make LED lighting well suited for both functional lighting and display lighting.
Integrating Undercabinet Lighting with Interior Lighting
Undercabinet lighting often works together with other lighting systems within the room. In kitchens, for example, undercabinet lighting may be combined with recessed ceiling lighting and pendant fixtures.
In display areas, undercabinet lighting may be paired with art lighting or strip lighting to illuminate collections and decorative elements.
This layered lighting approach creates a balanced lighting environment that highlights both the architecture of the space and the objects within it.
Professional Installation by Lighting Specialists
Installing undercabinet lighting requires careful planning to ensure the lighting appears clean and the wiring remains hidden. Our team installs lighting systems that integrate seamlessly with cabinetry and architectural features.
Typical installations include:
- installing concealed LED lighting beneath cabinets
- routing wiring discreetly through cabinetry or walls
- installing power supplies and lighting controls
- positioning fixtures for even illumination
- testing the lighting system after installation
These steps ensure the lighting system operates reliably while maintaining a clean visual appearance.
FAQ
Undercabinet lighting is installed beneath cabinets or shelves to illuminate the surface below and eliminate shadows created by overhead lighting.
It is most commonly used in kitchens, display cabinets, built-in shelving, and bar areas where additional lighting is needed.
Most systems use LED lighting because it provides consistent brightness and produces minimal heat.
Yes. In many cases lighting can be installed within existing cabinets or shelving with minimal modification.
Yes. LED lighting uses significantly less electricity than traditional lighting while providing consistent illumination.