12 Ways to Light Your Kitchen With LEDs

Recessed ceiling lights are a primary source of room illumination in many kitchens. Traditionally, they've used halogen or other incandescent sources. New remodeling kits let you replace those fixtures easily and more affordably with long-lasting, energy-saving LEDs. Another benefit: If your ceilings are high, you may not ever have to drag out the ladder again to change a bulb: LEDs can last up to 20 years.

Glass countertops can be lit from below by LED lights. They provide dramatic accent lighting for a glass countertop's beautiful translucent surface.

LEDs can be used to highlight architectural features, like the tray ceiling or cove molding in a traditional kitchen.

Under-cabinet lighting is an ideal application for LED lights. Unlike halogens, LEDs stay cool, so your hands don't get hot while you're working below them.

If you're showing off your serveware or collectibles in glass-fronted cabinets, consider lighting their interiors with LEDs. Options include rope lighting that can hide behind faceframes or puck lights that hide in the cabinet tops. Glass shelves let the light flow from the top of the cabinet to the bottom.

LEDs installed behind a translucent backsplash — like glass or this Varia Ecoresin from 3Form — is an ideal accent light application.

Once reserved for dining rooms and ballrooms, chandeliers have become popular fixtures for kitchens, too. If this is the look you're seeking for your traditional kitchen, consider shopping for an LED-powered fixture. The selection, while still small, is growing every year.