Modern Kitchen Cabinet Lighting

Project Overview

Located in a private residence in Los Angeles, this contemporary kitchen renovation required seamless, shadow-free under-cabinet illumination. We delivered a premium lighting system built on high-density COB LED strip technology, achieving uniform task lighting across 12 linear meters of cabinetry while preserving the clean, minimalist lines of the space.

Challenge

Two critical pain points defined this project. First, light spot reflections (光斑反射): conventional SMD strips create visible hot spots and dot patterns that bounce off glossy cabinet surfaces, ruining the premium look. Second, narrow-slot installation (窄槽安装): the milled aluminium profiles were only 8mm deep, leaving almost no room for bulky fixtures while still requiring completely dotless, glare-free output.

Design Philosophy

Minimalism — see the light, not the source. Every decision followed visual silence: hidden light sources, zero visible fixtures, and a continuous light line that reads as pure architectural detail.

Solution

• COB LED Strip 480 LEDs/m — ultra-high-density chip-on-board layout for a continuous, dotless light line with no dark spots.
• High CRI (Ra≥95) — true-to-life color rendering for food prep and countertop surfaces.
• Aluminum profile + frosted PC cover — recessed installation with soft, uniform diffused output and passive heat dissipation.

Technical Implementation

• Power: DC24V constant-voltage system, 12W/m, powered by a 150W driver with 20% headroom.
• Voltage drop: parallel 18AWG feeder wiring with power injection every 5m keeps end-to-end drop below 3% for uniform brightness.
• Dimming: TRIAC/0-10V dimmable driver, 1–100% smooth dimming, integrated with a smart wall panel and kickboard motion sensor.

Products Used

• COB LED Strip Light 480 LEDs/m — DC24V 4000K
• LED Power Supply Driver (150W, dimmable)
• Aluminum Channel — Recessed 8mm Type
• Frosted PC Cover
• LED Strip Connector Clip and Extension Cable

FAQ

Can COB strips fit narrow 8mm slots?

Yes — the strip is only 3–4mm wide and sits flush inside 8mm recessed aluminium channels.

Why COB instead of SMD for under-cabinet lighting?

COB packs 480 LEDs/m under a continuous phosphor layer, producing a completely dotless, glare-free line — no spot reflections on glossy surfaces.

Do these strips support dimming?

Yes, TRIAC/0-10V/PWM dimmable from 1% to 100% with no flicker.

How is voltage drop handled on long runs?

Parallel 18AWG feeders with injection every 5m keep the drop under 3% across 12m.

Is it waterproof?

IP20 standard for indoor cabinetry; IP65/IP67 available for humid zones near sinks.