Farmhouse Kitchen

THINK YOU’VE SEEN IT ALL? THESE 23+ RECESSED KITCHEN LIGHTING IDEAS WILL PROVE YOU WRONG!

by Charlie
written by Charlie
White Lights in a Farmhouse Kitchen

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THINK YOU’VE SEEN IT ALL when it comes to kitchen lighting? Oh, you are so in for a surprise!

You might think recessed lighting is all about subtlety, but get ready—these 23+ recessed kitchen lighting ideas are about to flip the switch on everything you thought you knew.

From ultra-sleek designs to jaw-dropping effects, these ideas are lighting up kitchens everywhere (pun totally intended).

Ready to see what’s taking over 2024’s hottest kitchen trends? Let’s dive in and prepare to be amazed!

Recessed Kitchen Lighting Ideas Infographic

Illuminate countertops with under-cabinet recessed lights

A photo of a beautiful well-organized farmhouse kitchen with under-cabinet recessed lights that illuminate the countertops. The kitchen has a wooden island with a butcher block top. The countertops are made of white quartz. There are white cabinets with wooden knobs and a white range hood above the stove. The backsplash is made of white subway tiles. The floors are made of dark wood.

Under-cabinet recessed lights are a game-changer in any kitchen.

These tiny, powerful fixtures shine a focused beam right where you need it most—on your countertops. No more chopping veggies in the dark!

Whether you’re prepping a meal or just want to show off your marble countertops, this lighting provides the perfect balance of function and flair. Plus, it looks super sleek.

Imagine the soft glow at night when all the other lights are off. It gives your kitchen a sophisticated, almost ambient vibe.

Highlight the island with layered recessed fixtures

A photo of a mid-century modern kitchen with a well-organized layout. The kitchen has a large island with a white counter and a few bar stools. The island is illuminated by layered recessed fixtures. The walls and cabinets are painted in a soft grey hue. There's a black stove, a white refrigerator, and a grey sink. There are also a few potted plants and decorative items. The floor is covered in beige tiles. The overall kitchen has a serene and welcoming ambiance.

Your kitchen island is the heart of the space, and it deserves to be in the spotlight—literally. By layering recessed fixtures above your island, you can make it a stunning focal point.

Layered lighting means combining multiple lights to create depth.

It’s a pro move that adds warmth and elegance, while also making sure you’ve got great visibility for everything from meal prep to casual conversations.

The combination of recessed and hanging lights creates a dynamic visual interest that will make your island stand out, day or night.

Install ceiling recessed lights for a modern look

A photo of a Scandinavian-style kitchen with a modern, minimalist, and uncluttered vibe. The kitchen has a beautiful well-organized setup with white cabinets, a marble countertop, and stainless steel appliances. There's a wooden cutting board with some fruits on it. The room has ceiling recessed lights, which provide an evenly spread light.

Ceiling recessed lights are like the little black dress of kitchen lighting—sleek, timeless, and always in style.

They seamlessly integrate into your ceiling, giving your kitchen a minimalist, uncluttered vibe.

What’s great about recessed ceiling lights is how evenly they spread light. Whether you have a small or large kitchen, they ensure that every corner is bright and well-lit.

Pro Tip: Opt for dimmable fixtures so you can control the mood. Want to brighten up your mornings or create a cozy evening glow? It’s all in your hands with dimmable recessed lighting!

Incorporate dimmable recessed lights for flexibility

A photo of a Japandi-style kitchen with a well-organized layout. The kitchen has a variety of wooden and white furniture, including a tall cabinet, a shelf, and a counter. There are also a few potted plants. The room has dimmable recessed lights. The lighting is dimmed down, creating a relaxed and inviting vibe. The photo is taken in the evening.

If you love versatility, dimmable recessed lighting is your new best friend. These lights let you set the mood with just a flick of a switch or turn of a dial.

During the day, you can crank them up for maximum brightness while cooking or cleaning.

And in the evening? Dim them down for a relaxed, inviting vibe that’s perfect for dinner parties or a quiet night in.

The ability to adjust the lighting to your exact preferences is one of those little luxuries you’ll wonder how you lived without.

Enhance your backsplash with wall-wash recessed lights

A photo of a beautiful, well-organized boho kitchen with wall-wash recessed lights. The gentle wash of light enhances the backsplash, highlighting its textures, colors, and patterns. The backsplash is made of subway tiles in shades of blue and white, with a few tiles replaced by tiles with a floral pattern. There are potted plants near the window and on a bookshelf. A wooden spoon and a dish are on the counter. The walls are painted in a soft blue hue, and the ceiling is white.

Want to take your backsplash to the next level? Wall-wash recessed lights are the way to go.

These fixtures are designed to spread light evenly across a surface, making your backsplash pop like never before.

The gentle wash of light highlights textures, colors, and patterns, drawing attention to one of the most stylish parts of your kitchen.

Whether your backsplash is sleek subway tile or intricate mosaic, wall-wash lighting adds that extra “wow” factor.

Best of all? This lighting trick works even when the rest of your kitchen is softly lit.

Place lights above open shelving for a decorative glow

A photo of a beautiful, well-organized boho kitchen with wall-wash recessed lights that enhance the backsplash. The gentle wash of light highlights the textures, colors, and patterns of the backsplash. The kitchen has a rustic charm with exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and a vintage oven. There are various cooking utensils, potted plants, and decorative items scattered across the kitchen.

Open shelving is a popular trend in kitchens, and placing recessed lights above them is a simple way to take it up a notch.

These lights highlight your beautifully curated dishes, cookbooks, or decorative pieces.

It’s like having a mini spotlight for each shelf, making your favorite items the stars of the show. Plus, the lighting adds depth to the space, making your kitchen feel larger and more dynamic.

And it’s not just about looks—it’s practical, too! The extra light makes it easier to find what you need, even when the rest of the kitchen is dimmed.

Position recessed lights in a grid pattern for uniform lighting

A photo of a well-organized modern kitchen with a grid pattern of recessed lights for uniform lighting. The kitchen has a clean and sleek design with white cabinets, a dark countertop, and stainless steel appliances. There's a wooden cutting board and a few utensils on the counter. The background wall has a few decorative items. The lighting creates a uniform glow that reaches every inch of the kitchen.

Okay, true story: I once moved into a kitchen where the lighting was all over the place.

Dark corners, uneven shadows—it drove me crazy! So, I learned about the magic of the grid pattern for recessed lighting.

By spacing your lights evenly in a grid, you create a uniform glow that reaches every inch of your kitchen. It’s super functional and makes the space feel larger and brighter.

It’s not just me who loves this—ask any kitchen designer, and they’ll tell you this is a foolproof lighting strategy!

Blend recessed lighting into a coffered ceiling

A photo of a beautiful well-organized French country kitchen with a wooden beam ceiling and a brick wall. There's a large wooden table in the middle of the room, with chairs around it. The kitchen has a stove, an oven, a sink, and a refrigerator. There are also cabinets and shelves filled with cookware and utensils. The floor is made of wood. The lighting is warm and inviting, with recessed lights positioned in a grid pattern for uniform lighting.

If you’ve got a coffered ceiling (or you’re planning to add one), recessed lighting is the perfect match.

These small, sleek fixtures can be tucked into the ceiling’s recesses, adding illumination without disrupting the architectural design.

By blending recessed lights into the ceiling’s beams or panels, you maintain the room’s flow while creating a soft, even glow. It’s a subtle way to add some serious style.

Your kitchen will feel both classic and contemporary—a beautiful balance.

Create ambient lighting with soft-edged recessed fixtures

A photo of a beautiful, well-organized Asian zen kitchen with ambient lighting from soft-edged recessed fixtures. There is a wooden cutting board with vegetables on the counter. There are utensils and a rice cooker nearby. The background contains a few potted plants and a shelf with a few items. The walls and ceiling have a light grey colour.

Not all recessed lighting has to be harsh and direct. Soft-edged fixtures diffuse light more gently, creating a warm, ambient glow that’s perfect for relaxing or entertaining.

These lights are perfect if you’re aiming for that cozy, laid-back kitchen vibe. They soften the edges of the room and make everything feel more inviting.

If your kitchen is where everyone gathers, ambient recessed lighting is a must. It sets the tone for those long chats over coffee or wine.

Frame the kitchen island with perimeter recessed lights

A photo of a well-organized Mediterranean kitchen with a beautiful island. The island is made of black granite and features a sink, a range hood, and a few potted plants. The perimeter is framed with recessed lights. The lights highlight the edges of the island, creating a subtle, spotlight effect. The floor is tiled with beige and black squares. There are cabinets and shelves along the walls. A pot hangs above the stove. A few utensils and decorative items are placed on the countertops. The overall space is bright and inviting.

You don’t need a fancy chandelier to make your island pop. Instead, use perimeter recessed lighting to frame the space and make it the focal point of the room.

This technique adds depth and drama without cluttering up your ceiling. The lights highlight the edges of your island, creating a subtle, spotlight effect.

It’s perfect for drawing attention to your island without overwhelming the rest of the kitchen design.

Add recessed lighting inside glass-front cabinets for display

A photo of a beautiful well-organized Cottagecore kitchen with recessed lighting inside glass-front cabinets for display, fancy dishware or glassware show off. The glow from the lights adds a sense of luxury and elegance to the space. There is a wooden table with a white tablecloth and a vase of flowers in the middle of the room. The walls are adorned with greenery.

Got some fancy dishware or glassware you want to show off? Install recessed lighting inside your glass-front cabinets. It’s like having your very own spotlight for your favorite pieces.

The glow from the lights adds a sense of luxury and elegance to the space. Plus, it’s super practical when you need to quickly grab an item from the cabinet.

You’ll love how these tiny lights elevate the whole kitchen, even when everything else is turned off.

Add soft-glow LED strips under open shelves

A photo of a beautifully organized Asian Zen kitchen with ambient lighting. There are wooden countertops, a sink, and a few utensils. There is a plant near the sink. The walls and cabinets are white. The floor is made of wood. The lighting is soft-edged and creates a warm glow.

Transform your open shelves into a dazzling display with soft-glow LED strips. These sleek, understated lights add a touch of magic to your shelves, making everything from your favorite mugs to carefully curated decor look simply stunning.

The gentle glow highlights the textures and colors of your items, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Plus, LED strips are energy-efficient, so you can enjoy the extra ambiance without worrying about your electricity bill.

It’s like giving your shelves their own spotlight, making them not just functional but also a central feature of your kitchen’s design. You’ll love how this simple addition can elevate your space with minimal effort!

Use recessed lighting under the kitchen island

A photo of a beautiful, well-organized Mediterranean kitchen with an island. The island is framed with perimeter recessed lights, which serve as the focal point of the room. These lights add depth and drama to the space. They also highlight the edges of the island, creating a subtle spotlight effect.

Give your kitchen island a stylish upgrade with recessed lighting underneath it. This clever lighting trick adds a modern, floating effect that’s both eye-catching and practical.

Recessed lights hidden beneath the island cast a soft, even glow that enhances the space and makes the island look like it’s floating. It’s perfect for creating a sleek, contemporary look that elevates your kitchen’s design game.

Plus, the extra light is a game-changer for those late-night snack runs or when you’re working on meal prep. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about adding functionality with flair. This little detail makes your kitchen island stand out as a functional and stylish centerpiece.

Place recessed lights for each cabinet door

A photo of a Scandinavian kitchen with white cabinets, a grey island, and a black counter. There is a wooden table near the window. The walls have beige and grey tiles. There are potted plants near the window and on the grey island. The floor is made of beige tiles. There are ceiling recessed lights that cast a soft glow on the white cabinets. The overall atmosphere is clean, organized, and warm.

Take your kitchen’s style and functionality to the next level by installing recessed lights for each cabinet door. This clever trick ensures every corner of your cabinets gets the perfect amount of light, making it easier to find what you need.

Imagine opening a cabinet and having a bright, focused beam light up every shelf. No more rummaging around in the dark or struggling to see the back corners. It’s like having a personal spotlight for each cabinet!

This setup not only adds a touch of luxury to your kitchen but also enhances practicality. You’ll appreciate the clear visibility and stylish look every time you reach for that hidden spice or favorite kitchen gadget.

Pair recessed fixtures with island pendants

A photo of a mid-century modern kitchen with a well-organized layout and layered recessed fixtures. The kitchen has a peninsula with a butcher block top and a sink. There is a large window with a transom window above it. The floor is covered with a patterned rug. There are various appliances, including a range, a refrigerator, and a dishwasher. The walls are painted beige, and the cabinets are painted white.

Why choose between recessed lighting and pendant lights when you can have the best of both worlds?

Start by installing recessed lights in the ceiling to provide even, ambient illumination across the whole kitchen. Then, add pendant lights over your island to create a stylish focal point.

The recessed lights ensure no corner is left in the dark, while the pendants add a splash of personality and direct light where you need it most.

This dynamic duo not only enhances your kitchen’s lighting but also creates a layered, visually interesting look. It’s the perfect way to achieve balanced, beautiful lighting that caters to both your practical needs and aesthetic desires.

Recessed lights under open shelves

A photo of a beautiful, well-organized farmhouse kitchen with under-cabinet recessed lights that illuminate the countertops. The kitchen has a white cabinets, a beige tile backsplash, and a dark gray island. The countertops are made of white quartz. There are various cooking utensils and pots on the island. The floor is made of dark gray concrete. The overall ambiance is bright and inviting.

Brighten up your open shelves with recessed lights for a sleek, modern touch. Installing these lights underneath your shelves is a game-changer, turning your shelves into a stylish display that’s both functional and chic.

Recessed lights create a subtle, focused glow that highlights your favorite items, from elegant glassware to unique kitchen gadgets. The soft illumination not only makes your shelves look like a design feature but also makes it easier to find what you’re looking for.

This lighting setup adds a layer of sophistication and warmth to your kitchen. It’s a simple yet effective way to showcase your décor and make your open shelving a standout element in your space.

Elegant White Farmhouse Kitchen with Illuminating Pot Lights

Indulge in the allure of this exquisite farmhouse kitchen featuring pristine white cabinets harmoniously paired with white and gray countertops.

Bathed in the luminance of kitchen pot lights and complemented by the glow of nickel and glass lantern pendant lights, the space radiates sophistication.

Elevate the ambiance with a touch of warmth from a stained wood shiplap accent wall and framed black windows.

Elegant White Farmhouse Kitchen with Illuminating Pot Lights

Credit: theviewfromtobaccoroad

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    Lighting Up the Kitchen with Lanterns

    Step into a culinary haven adorned with a light wood kitchen island crowned by a white and gray marble countertop, elegantly illuminated by bold black lantern pendant lights.

    The island’s radiance is further enhanced by the soft glow of kitchen ceiling downlights.

    Achieve a perfect balance with stained wood base cabinets paired seamlessly with pristine white upper cabinets.

    Lighting Up the Kitchen with Lanterns

    Credit: our.lakehouse.living

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    Black Island Lights and Elegant Lanterns

    Transform your kitchen dreams into reality with a captivating black island boasting a chic beige countertop.

    The island takes center stage amidst white kitchen cabinets, artfully illuminated by the soft glow of pot lights.

    Ensure the island captivates attention with a set of refined black and glass pendant lights.

    Black Island Lights and Elegant Lanterns

    Credit: mywelldressedhouse

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      Recessed and Pendant Illumination

      Embark on a visual journey through a kitchen adorned with white cabinets, framed by two gray islands showcasing elegant beige countertops.

      The islands come to life under the radiance of pot lights and stylish black and white pendant lights. Introduce a touch of drama with a striking white pillar positioned beside the kitchen.

      Recessed and Pendant Illumination

      Credit: thesassyoak

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      Recessed Lights in a White Kitchen

      Find delight in a kitchen adorned with recessed lighting, featuring a stylish white subway tile backsplash nestled between immaculate white cabinets.

      A focal point takes center stage with a white island, topped by a coordinating countertop, bathed in the gentle charm of pendant lights in black and cream hues.

      Recessed Lights in a White Kitchen

      Credit: themorrowhouse

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      Recessed Lights and Striking Sconces

      Immerse yourself in the essence of modern farmhouse elegance with white shaker cabinets complemented by a white marble countertop.

      Radiating a subtle sophistication, the cabinets come alive under the soft illumination of black wall sconces and white recessed lighting.

      Showcase your cherished decor on airy light wood floating shelves gracefully mounted above the counter.

      Recessed Lights and Striking Sconces

      Credit: theprovidencecottage

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      White Lights in a Farmhouse Kitchen

      A white kitchen island, embellished with a gray marble countertop, is elegantly illuminated by pendant lights in brass and cream tones.

      The warm glow extends to a white range hood positioned above immaculate white shaker cabinets, further enhanced by the soft radiance of recessed lighting in the kitchen.

      Embrace the spirit of the season by adorning the space with Halloween-themed ornaments and a festive autumn wreath displayed on the range hood.

      White Lights in a Farmhouse Kitchen

      Credit: thefinishedproject

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        Cozy Off-White Kitchen with Ceiling Lights

        Step into the warmth of a snug kitchen, where off-white cabinets and a matching island are softly illuminated by the comforting glow of kitchen pot lights.

        Achieving perfect harmony, the cabinets and island seamlessly complement gray granite countertops. Add a touch of enduring farmhouse charm with the presence of a round wood dining table.

        Cozy Off-White Kitchen with Ceiling Lights

        Credit: thestyled.home

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          Wrap-up

          So, what do you think—did we prove you wrong or what?

          😏 These 23+ recessed kitchen lighting ideas aren’t just lighting up the room; they’re elevating the whole vibe.

          Whether you’re planning a total kitchen makeover or just looking to add some serious flair, these designs have something for everyone.

          Which one’s your favorite? Let us know in the comments and get ready to shine in your brand-new kitchen! ✨ #KitchenGlowUp

          Recessed Kitchen Lighting Ideas Infographic

          Charlie Victor is a go-to source for home decor, home improvement, DIY projects, and backyard makeovers. Based in Florida, he has been transforming homes and businesses across the state since 1992. When he isn't working, you can find him surfing out on Miami waves!

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