How Brooke Shields’ Brilliant Under-Cabinet Kitchen Lighting Solves Every Decorating Dilemma – And You Can Recreate This Designer-Approved Look for Under $25

Decorating a kitchen is a highly personal affair, but one element remains worth playing by some rules: lighting. Too harsh or subtle, and a space, no matter how beautifully designed, will be lost or overexposed.

Allow Brooke Shields to convince you that under-cabinet lights are the way to go. As seen on the actor's Instagram page, the monochromatic kitchen sees gentle illumination under its shelves thanks to LED strip lighting – a timeless kitchen lighting idea.

It particularly suits the location, providing visibility for the sink and counter space, while adding a spotlight effect to Brooke's collection of cookbooks. Its thinness and discreet nature are also space-saving, making it a major win for those of us with small kitchens.

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Design experts explain that kitchen lighting is crucial to a kitchen's ambiance, and as such, the goal should be to keep the space visible but inviting.

'Harsh overhead lighting or dim spaces make a kitchen feel dated and unwelcoming,' designer Nina Lichtenstein explains. 'Layered lighting is essential for a high-end look. Under-cabinet LED lighting, a statement pendant over a small island, or recessed lights create warmth and sophistication. Avoid harsh, overly cool-toned bulbs.'

While we are partial to the under-cabinet lights (these ones from Amazon are durable and affordable at under $25), there are plenty of other ways to achieve the same, glowy look.

Table lamps have gained popularity in kitchens, giving off some further illumination while adding a focal point to a countertop or island (these work especially well in larger kitchens with plenty of surface space). This all-white lamp from Wayfair is a great pick for a modern, minimalist kitchen.

Alternatively, picture lights are a chic and unexpected form of lighting, which, naturally, look fantastic above any hanging wall art.