Perimeter Lights
Despite their history, the fluorescent light fixture has retained its position as a good source of ambient light. However, to avoid shadows, florescent fixtures are often installed around the perimeter of the kitchen. A popular way to do this is to install fluorescent strip fixtures above kitchen cabinets in such a way that the fixtures are not visible from floor level. This type of installation fills the kitchen with indirect illumination by bouncing light off of the ceiling and walls.
Additionally, fluorescent tubes are now available in “color temperatures” that create light that is much more warm and inviting than their predecessors. These tubes can be identified by labeling such as “warm white.” Today’s florescent fixtures can also be operated using dimmer switches, allowing you to vary the intensity of light and thereby specifically define the room’s “feel.” Fluorescent fixtures are available in lengths as short as 18 inches and as long as 8 feet long.
- Material Cost: $12 to $35 per fixture
- Labor Cost: $25 to $50/hour
Task Light
Task lights provide illumination to specific work areas, for example countertop areas where cooking tasks are performed.
Fluorescent Lights
If the work area is directly beneath a cabinet, under-cabinet fixtures work very well. In fact, under-cabinet lights have enjoyed very wide 
use and are a popular part of most kitchen remodel projects. Under-cabinet lighting can be provided by a fluorescent strip fixture that is equipped with a light-diffusing cover. Properly mounted, fluorescent under-cabinet fixtures provide excellent task lighting with their ability to wash entire surface areas with shadowless light. As noted above, choose fluorescent tubes in the warmer “color temperatures” to ensure your fixtures create light that is inviting as well as functional. Under-cabinet fluorescent fixtures are available in 12-inch to 36-inch lengths.
- Material Cost: $15 to $50 per fixture
- Labor Cost: $25 to $50/hour
Puck Lights
Another popular under-cabinet lighting choice is the puck light, named for its resemblance to a hockey puck. These lights provide a more concentrated light compared to fluorescents. To be most effective, puck lights should be installed equidistant between the front edge of the cabinet and the wall. The disadvantage of using puck lights in this type of installation, however, is that the electrical cord will either remain visible between the light and wall, or it will have to be run up into the cabinet and then back to the wall. Either way, the cord cannot be fully hidden as it can be with a properly installed fluorescent under-cabinet fixture.