Most of us aren’t experts when it comes to lighting. We know what types of fixtures belong on the ceiling, the wall or on desks and end tables. But what might not be quite as obvious are the types of lighting fixtures that go best in spaces like shelves and cabinetry. What might surprise you is that there is an entire category of fixtures specifically named under-cabinet lighting. These fixtures have been specially designed to be installed in and illuminate small spaces. Lighting fixtures in this category include strip lights, puck lights, recessed lights and rope lights.
Strip Lights: These consist of a custom-cut track that discreetly mounts to the inside of cabinet spaces, and are fitted with festoon lamps to create a soft glow. Strip lights are most often found in curio cabinets and shelving. These lights are very subtle, usually measuring less than an inch wide. These are for designed spaces in which the lighting itself is to be the star, as opposed to the fixture.
Puck Lights: The name pretty much describes this fixture choice. Puck lights are usually about the same size, shape and dimension of a hockey puck. Puck lights are usually placed together in a series for evenly spaced lighting. They’re easier to install than strip lighting, which makes them a very popular solution to under-cabinet lighting needs.
Recessed Lights: Similar in size and shape to puck lights, recessed lights are mounted not on the shelf, but into the shelf above. This makes for a more aesthetically pleasing lighting configuration, but it also means that your shelf will no longer be useful. And, these can be a bit difficult to retrofit in existing cabinetry, so they might not be the best choice for existing cabinets. Recessed lights are a great choice, though, if you’re installing new cabinets and know you want to create permanent cabinet lighting.
Rope Lights: This is a super-simple way to achieve under-cabinet lighting. Rope lights are, basically, a string of lights inside a plastic tube, kind of like holiday lights. Using plastic clips, rope lights can be easily mounted into the top of cabinets and shelves. Rope lights provide a quick and easy solution to under-cabinet lighting needs.
If you’d like more information on illuminating your cabinets and shelves, turn to the experts at Fahy Kitchens & Baths Please feel free to contact us at (315) 735-8181 or fax to (315) 735-2829. Fahy Kitchens is located at 1908 Oriskany Street West in Utica, N.Y. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are appreciated.