Last updated on April 19th, 2022 at 07:44 am
There are many methods for lighting Glass Countertops that bring out the best in its depth and texture. Depending upon the location of the surface, we may recommend one or more of the following solutions:
- Edge lighting of the glass with LED strip lights.
- Down lighting of the glass with a bright point source of light
- Use Ambient lighting from windows.
1) LED lighting of glass countertops is the most popular lighting option, most often used when the glass is against a wall. The multi-color LED strip is only 0.125″ x 0.5″. It is multi-color, dimmable, and in the evening can create spectacular effects. This illumination creates a beautiful shadowy depth across the glass countertop texture. Alternatively for an island or table, LED light strips can be placed along one edge, and we cover it with a narrow stainless steel C-channel.
2) Down lighting of glass countertops is practical for most all installations. We recommend the use of point sources of light (vs flood lighting) for razor sharp shadow generation. Halogen type lamps are fine, but get hot and are yellow in tone. New LED ceiling lights offer more natural lighting tones, are cool and dimmable. The effects of point sources of light upon our textured glass countertop are spectacular. With cantilevered glass counters, it is possible to cast dramatic shadows upon:
- The floor
- Lower bar surface
- Bounce light off of the glass surface back up to the ceiling.
Look closely at the example below…observe the ceiling and floor. There are (2) ceiling mounted LED lights directly above the countertop. This is thoughtful planning of light positions to maximize their shadow effects. This high bar is 96″ x 16″ x 1.5″ and is cantilevered exactly half way over the lower counter edge. Two of our custom steel brackets are used for support. The resulting interplay is beautiful.
Imagine coming home to this every night as your night light…
Glass High Bar Shadows and Reflections
The same high bar from a higher angle shows shadows on the lower surface. As you add plates, wine glasses, etc. to this surface the effects become striking.
Glass High Bar shadows
3) Ambient sunlight allows the glass to be illuminated without any lights at all. The picture below was taken at noon with zero flash or fill lights. PPG Starphire glass presents a beautiful bluish tint…with just a trace of aqua when allowed to inhale ambient lighting. This rendition shows the true color of what our glass looks like in daylight. All pictures on this blog are Starphire glass.
Starphire Glass color
We hope that this guide will help you better understand your lighting options for your glass countertop installation.
Call us to discuss your options. We are always available to assist you with your specifics.
Jeff Downing
Downing Designs 800-486-3650