Share this article
Concealed or cove lighting refers to strategically placed fixtures hidden from direct view, creating a subtle and aesthetically pleasing illumination. They come in various forms, including recessed lights, downlights, pale lights and linear LED strip lights embedded in architectural elements.
In the kitchen, concealed lighting is crucial for enhancing functionality, providing task lighting, and creating a warm ambience. Strategic placement under kitchen cabinets, in toe kicks, and above kitchen workspaces ensures a well-lit and visually appealing culinary environment.
Cove lighting lumens
According to Say Yang Chuah, Founder and Creative Director of the Nevermore Group, concealed lighting’s impact on space depends on location, affecting light direction and spread. Install high-efficiency LED modules (100 lm/w or more) strategically in coves, avoiding absorptive surfaces for energy efficiency.
Choose LED light sources based on the lighting purpose for coves. For ambient or object highlighting, use up to 500 lumens per meter; architectural elements may need up to 1000 lumens per meter, and general lighting up to 2500 lumens per meter.
Choose a high power transformer
Opt for easily installed LED strips for concealed lighting, minimising redundant parts like wires and connectors. Choose a high-capacity transformer for reliable performance over long distances with minimal auxiliary items.
Select LED modules or strips with superior light quality, spectrum, and Colour Rendering Index (CRI). Opt for CRI80 or higher for accurate colour representation in various spaces, with CRI95+ recommended for optimal results, mimicking sunlight for a natural ambience. Also, pick LED modules with a long lifespan, minimal colour shift, and superior lumen maintenance.
Floating Kitchen Shelves
This kitchen did away with wall-hung cabinets for floating shelves. Not only does create the appearance of a wider space, it allows the owners to display their decorative objects and curated kitchen and tableware. To ensure they’re shown off in their best light, concealed lighting was installed under the shelves, the gentle illumination creating a flattering glow.
Kitchen Mirror Design
This galley kitchen benefited from the space-enhancing qualities of a tinted mirror. The mirror adds a touch of sophistication while reflecting the beautiful grains of the solid surface backsplash and counter. Running concealed lighting in the gap between the mirror and backsplash further enhances the elegant combination while providing some lighting for anyone using the counterspace.
All-White Kitchen
This all-white kitchen was brightly lit with task light, but concealed lighting was installed in strategic locations to highlight certain areas. One place was to accent the cabinetry above the sleek cooker, drawing attention to the sleek appliance. The other is embedded in the toe kick of the kitchen island.
Here, a soft glow emerges from beneath the cabinetry, enhancing the visual appeal of the kitchen island space while adding a layer of security when all the other lights are switched off.
Dark Kitchen Design
Concealed lighting is a straightforward solution to a darker-toned kitchen with grey cabinets and a charcoal- toned backsplash with not much natural light. Installing concealed lighting stretching the length of the L-shaped kitchen allows for better visibility when preparing food, and the continuous track creates the illusion of a larger space. Choosing a warm tone complements the kitchen palette, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming space.
Cove lighting mistakes
“I think the biggest mistake designers make with regard to cove lighting is the fact that [interior designers] don’t supplement it with anything else, thinking that overall illumination is sufficient to do the job. If you are designing for the kitchen in a corporate office setting, sure, go with that, but the best lighting plans give you different levels of illumination, from various points,” says interior designer Tyler Wisler when asked about the biggest mistake interior designers tend to make with cove lighting.
Cove lighting should be uniform. “If you want to play with warm and cool lighting to create the most flattering effects for your space, then I would make sure that I had dimming capabilities from bright white to sunset, but again, all uniform,” Wisler continues.
LED Cove Lighting
When kitchen interiors utilise wall-mounted cabinetry and other shelving systems, having downlights as your sole source of illumination may be insufficient. Lining shelves with LED strips will eliminate shadows and provide a well-lit artistic display for your collections.
LED strip lights are versatile and energy-efficient. They can be installed in various shapes, sizes, and colours, which allows for endless possibilities. Many also come with dimming capabilities, all the better to control the intensity and mood of the light.
Compared to traditional lighting sources, LED lights consume less energy and have a longer lifespan, thus reducing energy costs and their environmental impact. This versatile option can be bent and, with some, even be trimmed to different sizes. These days, strip lighting like Philips Hue indoor light strips are smart-enabled and work with with the Hue app, smart accessories or your voice.
From enhancing floating shelves and toe-kicks to backlighting your prized appliances, lightstrips provide smart, decorative lighting that adapts to your home.
Pictured above, concealed lighting was installed here to gently illuminate the counter top. It also serves an aesthetic purpose and highlights the grains of the marble slab we had chosen for as the backsplash feature. A strip of lighting runs along the borders of the glass door cabinet to make it look as if it was lit from within. Strip lighting can be a more elegant solution than installing a downlight at the top of it, which only illuminates the top shelf.
Drawer Lights
Drawers and pull-out trays, especially in darker spaces require concealed lighting. They provide easy access and allow contents to be brought into view and light with a simple pull. This eliminates the need to rummage through cluttered cabinets, making it easy to find utensils, cookware, or ingredients.
The cost of installing concealed lighting in a kitchen in Singapore can vary based on several factors, including the type of lighting, the size of the kitchen, and the complexity of the installation. On average, expect to spend an additional $500 to $1,500 for your kitchen set-up.
Here’s a breakdown: LED Strips and Fixtures: $200 - $600 Power Supply and Controllers: $100 - $300 Installation Fees: $200 - $600 For a more detailed and accurate quote, it’s best to consult with a local lighting specialist or electrician.