Backlit Countertops: What You Need to Know

Q: How Is a Backlit Countertop Installed?

For this kitchen, we used a backlighting system from TASK Lighting, which I discovered at the NKBA show. Think of the installation like a sandwich: Cabinetry → plywood → lighting system → countertop The lighting system needs a flat, properly supported surface underneath it, plywood works fine. Here's the detail that's easy to overlook: those additional layers add height to your countertop and that needs to be considered before you order your cabinetry.

Q: What is the Typical Cost?

Our island was approximately 72 square feet, and the lighting system itself cost around $6,000. That's roughly $83 per square foot on this particular project—and that does not include the countertop material itself. Your price will vary depending on the size of the countertop, lighting system, electrical requirements and installation details, but our project gives you a real-world example of what an extra large residential installation can cost.

2 days ago

3 min read

Backlit countertops are one of those kitchen features you really have to see to appreciate.

During the day, it's a beautiful stone countertop... then with the flip a switch, suddenly the entire surface glows from within.

I recently designed a kitchen with a massive 12-foot by 6-foot backlit island, and when I shared the project on Instagram, it quickly received more than 6,000 views because it looks like a giant glowing gemstone. ✨

There’s quite a bit happening underneath that beautiful stone and if you’re considering a backlit countertop for your own kitchen, here’s what you need to know before you start designing.

Massive kitchen island under a woven chandelier in a bright white kitchen during a remodel with backlit countertops. — Design by Robin Johnson Interiors

How Do Backlit Countertops Work?

LED lighting runs underneath your countertop material, allowing the light to pass through any translucent surface, but not every countertop can be backlit...

Certain translucent quartzites, onyx, some marbles and alabaster can work beautifully. There are also manufactured translucent surfaces specifically designed for backlighting.

If you’re using natural stone, I recommend testing the actual slab before purchasing it with a flashlight. Translucency can vary considerably from one slab to another.

Why Doesn't the Stone Light Up Evenly?

This was the number-one question I received when I shared this project and the answer is actually pretty simple, it depends on the stone—not the lighting.

Some portions of natural stone are more translucent, allowing more light to pass through. Other areas are more opaque.

That creates the dramatic light-and-dark pattern you see when the countertop is illuminated.

Personally, I think that's what makes it so beautiful. It shouldn't necessarily look like a perfectly even lightbox. The natural variation is part of the effect.

How Is a Backlit Countertop Installed?

For this kitchen, we used a backlighting system from TASK Lighting, which I discovered at the NKBA show.

Think of the installation like a sandwich:

Cabinetry → plywood → lighting system → countertop

The lighting system needs a flat, properly supported surface underneath it, plywood works fine.

Here's the detail that's easy to overlook: those additional layers add height to your countertop and that needs to be considered before you order your cabinetry.

4 Ways to Hide the Backlighting

There are several ways to conceal the lighting and support underneath your countertop:

Recess it into the cabinetry.
The support layer can sometimes be recessed so the lighting assembly sits flush.
Order slightly shorter cabinets.
You can compensate for the added height by adjusting the cabinetry but depending on your cabinet manufacturer, that may mean paying more. You'll still need to conceal the layers but your finished height will be 36".
Keep standard cabinets and conceal the added layer.
We installed the support and lighting above standard cabinets and concealed the additional layers with a tiny piece of molding painted to match the cabinetry. Our island finished at approximately 36 3/4".
Use a built-up or mitered countertop edge.
A speicalty countertop edge can conceal the assembly underneath and create a beautiful glowing finish, but it adds cost to the countertop fabrication and needs to be coordinated with the cabinet design.

There isn't one right answer. The important thing is deciding which method you're using before your cabinets and countertops are ordered and consider the cost.

What is the Typical Cost?

Our island was approximately 72 square feet, and the lighting system itself cost around $6,000.

That's roughly $83 per square foot on this particular project—and that does not include the countertop material itself.

Your price will vary depending on the size of the countertop, lighting system, electrical requirements and installation details, but our project gives you a real-world example of what an extra large residential installation can cost.

Is it Worth It?

For the right kitchen? I think it can be spectacular. It's definitely an investment that requires more coordination than a standard countertop installation. But if you're looking for a dramatic focal point, there really isn't anything quite like watching a beautiful translucent stone come to life when you turn on the lights.

In fact, my client loves hers so much that she now wants to explore backlighting the countertops in her outdoor kitchen. I'd say that's a pretty good review.

Planning Your Kitchen Remodel?

Whether you're considering a statement feature like a backlit island or simply trying to figure out your cabinetry and layout, make these decisions before construction begins. That's exactly why I created my free Kitchen Remodel Starter Kit—to help you start planning ahead of time.

[Download the FREE Kitchen Remodel Starter Kit →]

And if you want to hear the crazy behind-the-scenes story from this project? Listen to this week's episode of The Kitchen Island That Almost Caught on Fire 🔥

[Listen to the Kitchen Remodel Made Easy Podcast →]