Lighting Design – Millwork Lighting

At DHS Lighting Design, we recently completed a stunning residential project that incorporated custom millwork lighting for cabinets, bookcases, and a wine room. Working closely with the homeowner, millwork designer, and electrical contractor, we used LED tape lighting to enhance both functionality and aesthetics. The result? A visually captivating, well-lit space that thrilled the client.

Here are some tips for incorporating LED tape lighting into millwork to elevate the design and create a striking visual effect:

1. Plan with Creativity: Collaborate with the millwork designer to map out the lighting placement using detailed drawings or 3D models. Horizontal placement works best for fixed shelving, while vertical placement is ideal for adjustable shelves. Always consider how the lighting enhances the textures and contours of the woodwork.
2. Select the Right LED Tape and Channel: With recent advancements in LED technology, there are now smaller, more powerful lighting options available. Research the right lumen output, color temperature, and mounting options for your project. Consider flexible sources for curved applications.
3. Positioning for Impact: Strategically position LED tape to highlight specific features like shelving or decorative elements. Conceal the tape lighting within recesses to maintain a clean and sophisticated look. Work with the millwork designer to modify channels and finishes where needed.
4. Experiment with Lighting Angles: Mount LED tape at different angles to create unique effects, like backlighting or grazing surfaces to emphasize texture.
5. Incorporate Control and Dimming: Always add dimmers or control systems to adjust brightness and color for versatility and mood-setting.
6. Provide drawings to the electrical contractor: That includes a complete bill of material, lighting schedule, plan and elevation views that indicate placement of lighting and power components.

By carefully planning and collaborating with designers and contractors, you can transform millwork into an architectural focal point that blends functionality with visual beauty. Doing this has created many happy clients for us!