Exploring the Potential of Smart Lighting in Kitchen Cabinets

Hello everyone, I’m excited to share my recent experience with the Sengled Light Strip and how it’s transforming my kitchen setup. As an undergrad EE student, I’ve always been fascinated by the integration of technology into everyday spaces, and this project has been a delightful challenge!

The Scenario

Our kitchen layout features cabinets above the sink, with full-height cabinets on either side. My goal was to install lighting that not only enhances functionality but also conserves energy by avoiding unnecessary LED usage. The idea was to use Sengled Light Strip segments connected by UNLIT extensions to bridge gaps between the cabinets, ensuring light only where needed.

The Solution

The Sengled Light Strip comes in a 2M base package with 1M extension options. However, finding UNLIT extensions proved tricky. After some research, I discovered that while Sengled doesn’t offer them officially, there are third-party solutions and DIY approaches available. The strip’s 5-pin connectors are standard, which is a relief for those looking to extend the setup without proprietary issues.

The Experience

The installation process was straightforward, thanks to the pre-applied strong double-sided tape. The strip integrates seamlessly with Home Assistant (HA), offering a smooth dimming range from 1-100%. While the color/temperature range is decent, our kitchen setup primarily benefits from warm white lighting, making it a cost-effective choice.

The Challenge

One minor hiccup was ensuring consistent communication between the strips, especially over longer distances. However, using the plugin connector approach instead of soldering made the process much cleaner and easier for future adjustments.

The Outcome

The result is a functional and aesthetically pleasing kitchen lighting solution. The strips are controlled via voice commands through an Echo or the toggle/button controller, adding a layer of convenience. Plus, the dimming feature allows for mood adjustments, which is a nice bonus!

Looking Ahead

I’m curious to explore more about the availability of UNLIT extensions and whether they could be a standard offering in future product lines. For now, I’m thrilled with the setup and would recommend the Sengled Light Strip to anyone looking for an affordable, versatile lighting solution.

Thanks for reading, and I’d love to hear your thoughts or any tips you might have for similar projects!

Best regards,
[Your Name]