Over the stove lighting ideas: Illuminate your kitchen with these creative lighting solutionsLysander GreySep 23, 2025Table of Contents1. Slim LED Strip Under the Hood2. Adjustable Arm Sconces3. Recessed Downlights4. Pendant Cluster5. Integrated Range Hood Lighting6. Track Lighting Sweep7. Vintage Edison Bulbs8. Under-Cabinet LEDs9. Smart Color-Changing Lights10. Overhead SkylightFAQTable of Contents1. Slim LED Strip Under the Hood2. Adjustable Arm Sconces3. Recessed Downlights4. Pendant Cluster5. Integrated Range Hood Lighting6. Track Lighting Sweep7. Vintage Edison Bulbs8. Under-Cabinet LEDs9. Smart Color-Changing Lights10. Overhead SkylightFAQOver-the-Stove Lighting IdeasCreative, practical lighting ideas to brighten your stove.See 10 lighting ideasOne time, a client asked me to install a small crystal chandelier directly above her stove. I laughed at first, then realized she meant it — and honestly, it wasn’t the worst idea I’d heard. That moment reminded me that small spaces like the cooking zone can spark big creativity if you’re willing to bend the rules. In this post, I’ll share 10 over-the-stove lighting ideas inspired by my own projects, with honest notes on what works, what might not, and how to bring them to life.1. Slim LED Strip Under the HoodI once used a slim LED strip under a stainless steel hood, and boom — instant task lighting without clutter. It’s a clean solution, though you’ll need to check if your hood design has space for wiring. Works great if paired with a compact kitchen layout vision, so the stove becomes a clear focal point.save pin2. Adjustable Arm SconcesThese are perfect if you’re a fan of flexibility. I love mounting them on the wall beside the stove so I can swing them out while cooking and tuck them back afterward. Just make sure they’re rated for kitchen use — grease can be unforgiving.save pin3. Recessed DownlightsSometimes the simplest choice is the best. Recessed lights above the stove give you a direct beam without visual fuss. Installation can be tricky if you have ceiling joists in the way, but a good electrician can always find a path.save pin4. Pendant ClusterA group of two or three mini pendants can add personality over the stove area, especially in open-plan kitchens. I’ve done this in loft apartments, but beware: pendants hang low, so keep clearance for stirring tall pots.save pin5. Integrated Range Hood LightingMany modern hoods come with built-in LED lights — my advice is to choose models with warm color temperatures to avoid that sterile kitchen vibe.save pin6. Track Lighting SweepPerfect for tight galley kitchens, track lighting mounted across the ceiling lets you aim a spotlight right over the stove. When combined with a custom floor plan, you can ensure no corner gets left in the dark.save pin7. Vintage Edison BulbsThis one’s for the atmosphere lovers. Hanging a small fixture with Edison bulbs above the stove adds charm, though it’s more for style than strong illumination. They also add a touch of nostalgia that clients love.save pin8. Under-Cabinet LEDsI regularly hide LED strips under cabinets surrounding the stove; they bathe the cooktop in light without making the source obvious. Just remember to protect them from steam.save pin9. Smart Color-Changing LightsCooking a slow Sunday dinner? Switch to warm amber. Stir-fry at midnight? Go bright white. Smart LEDs really put you in control, and they pair beautifully with a modern kitchen layout system.save pin10. Overhead SkylightNot technically a light fixture, but if your kitchen’s under the roof, a small skylight above the stove fills your cooking zone with uplifting natural light. The only drawback is at night, you’ll still need backup illumination.save pinFAQ1. What type of lighting is best over a stove?Task lighting with focused beams, such as LED strips or recessed lights, works best to ensure visibility while cooking.2. Can I put pendant lights above a stove?Yes, as long as they’re placed high enough to avoid obstructing cooking and are made from heat-resistant materials.3. Are LED lights safe above a stove?Generally yes — especially if they have proper housing or are integrated into the hood — but avoid direct exposure to steam.4. How much light do I need for cooking?About 300–500 lumens focused directly on the cooktop is ideal, according to IES Lighting Handbook standards.5. Do I need special wiring for over-the-stove lighting?Depends on your current kitchen wiring; consult a licensed electrician to meet safety codes.6. Will lighting above a gas stove get greasy?Yes, and regular cleaning or choosing sealed fixtures helps maintain performance.7. Can I add lighting without changing my cabinets?Yes, under-cabinet lights or track lighting are low-impact solutions requiring minimal construction.8. What’s the cheapest way to improve stove lighting?Plug-in LED strips or battery-powered puck lights offer affordable, quick upgrades without rewiring.See 10 lighting ideasPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Over-the-Stove Lighting IdeasCreative, practical lighting ideas to brighten your stove.See 10 lighting ideas