Enhance your cooking area with this simple installation above and beneath kitchen cabinets.
Are you planning to transform your compact kitchen without overspending? I certainly was!
While painting above the cupboards on the countertop, a notion struck me.
“Would improved illumination make this kitchen seem more spacious?”
That initial thought sparked further ideas, leading us to our nearby Home Depot location.
I wasn't sure what to search for, but a large red sale sign caught my attention: “Plug in ultra slim LED light strip for above and under cabinet lighting – 70% off!”
I purchased the final 3 units, knowing I could return them if they proved unsuitable.
Functionality of this Simple Above and Under Kitchen Lighting System
Returning them was unnecessary; we absolutely love them!
Details on the ultra slim LED strip kit lights:
The ultra slim LED strip kit (sourced from Home Depot) offers multiple lengths. The sets we acquired were 36″, comprising 3 LED strip lights that merge to create one continuous 36″ strip.
Subsequently, the power cord is connected at one end and then into a wall outlet.
**Update: These lights might be gone since I published this. Nevertheless, these best selling cordless motion sensor lights are a fantastic alternative for under cabinet lighting! (Amazon affiliate link)
Advantages of this straightforward above kitchen cabinet lighting.
Without photo editing, our small kitchen appears somewhat dim. This picture was captured on a lovely, sunny day, yet the room receives limited natural light.
Observe this area now with the clever above kitchen cabinet lighting installed!
The difference is remarkable; the area feels much brighter, more cheerful, and noticeably larger!
The process of fitting the above kitchen cabinets LED light strip.
Honestly, I am slightly hesitant to admit how effortless the setup was. We merely
- put together the 2 36″ strips,
- connected the cords to the ends,
- threaded them through the small spaces between our cupboards and the wall, and
- placed them on top. That was the whole task!
Disadvantages of this above cabinet LED strip light system
A drawback to this overhead kitchen cabinet lighting setup is the difficulty in concealing the cord and plug.
Next to the white canister, you can observe where one strip light connects; the power connection needs consideration based on your kitchen layout. Fortunately, our small kitchen had ample outlets, allowing us to position one where it was needed.
The system includes a convenient on/off switch, yet it is positioned far from the actual plug! (Perhaps this explains the good sale price?) In truth, the switch rests atop the cabinets, making it inconvenient to reach. (chuckle) However, to power down these lights, we simply disconnect the plug.
It was crucial for me that no long black wires were visible. Our unique kitchen design provided an advantage here, with large open areas in both corners behind the cabinets, perfect for routing the lights. Anyone considering this lighting system should carefully plan for the cord and plug placement.
Guide to employing this lighting for under kitchen cabinets
This extremely slender LED strip kit is also suitable for under cabinet illumination.
It supplies numerous mounting hardware options; you merely screw in the clips and affix it beneath the cabinet.
As demonstrated, we joined 2 strips and utilized a cord adaptor (an extra purchase) to position the third strip in an 'L' shape in the corner.
I am amazed at how brightly this corner is now lit!
Disadvantages of this under kitchen cabinet lighting
Since our cabinets weren't built to conceal under counter lighting, I am not fond of the visible light strips underneath. Nevertheless, you might strategically add trim in your space to hide them.
Because this corner is somewhat tucked away, the visible lights there do not bother me as much.
Advice for fitting and utilizing these above and under kitchen cabinet LED strip kit lights
As you can see, the light plugs are rather large and awkward. To free up a corner outlet, we bought a 3 plug adaptor to connect to the upper wall receptacle.
This way, the 2 plugs for the LED light strips only occupy one of our wall-mounted outlets.
We can reach this under cabinet on/off switch beneath this counter, and we simply unplug the upper light to turn it off.
We are thrilled with our newly brighter kitchen!
Seeking more small kitchen inspiration? These prior articles might interest you:
- Small kitchen renovation for $159
- Affordable kitchen makeover concepts
- Small kitchen storage suggestions
- Under the kitchen sink storage and a DIY cabinet mat
- My Sister’s Kitchen Makeover Reveal
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