Get This Look
Under-cabinet lighting is one of the easiest upgrades you can make to a kitchen — it adds warmth, makes prep work easier, and gives the whole space a polished, high-end feel without a renovation price tag.
How to Recreate It
- Measure the underside of your upper cabinets to determine how many feet of LED strip or puck lights you need.
- Choose a warm white (2700K–3000K) LED strip or bar light for a cozy, inviting glow rather than a harsh cool tone.
- Peel-and-stick or screw-mount the lights flush to the front edge of the cabinet underside so the light hits your countertop directly.
- Tuck the power cord behind the cabinet or use a cord cover strip for a clean, built-in look.
- Add a smart plug or inline dimmer so you can adjust brightness and set the mood for cooking versus entertaining.
Styling Tips
- Warm white tones (2700K–3000K) complement wood cabinets and butcher block counters beautifully — avoid cool daylight bulbs in traditional or farmhouse kitchens.
- Layer under-cabinet lights with a statement pendant over the island to create depth and dimension across the whole kitchen.
- Keep countertops clutter-free beneath the lights so the illumination actually shows off your space rather than casting shadows on a pile of appliances.
- Dimmable strips let you use the lights as nighttime mood lighting — great for late-night snacking without flipping on overhead fixtures.
Budget Swaps
- Plug-in LED puck lights are a no-commitment, renter-friendly alternative to hardwired strip systems — just as effective and totally removable.
- A motion-activated under-cabinet bar is a great budget option if you want hands-free convenience without buying a smart plug separately.
- Look for rechargeable wireless LED strips — no outlet needed, making them perfect for awkward cabinet configurations or pantry shelves.
