Updating a fluorescent box light with LED lighting and decorative molding

Originally our kitchen was sporting a huge four-light fluorescent light box that is so typical of the late 1980s. I tore down the box, re-leveled the ceiling and removed the lights. I replaced them with six LED can lights, a three-bulb chandelier over the island and a drop pendant over the sink. Those fixtures throw more light than the huge original light box and because of the use of energy efficient LEDs our electric bill is actually smaller.

Finally, I added decorative box molding to the ceiling. Not only does it mask the imperfect patch job on the textured ceiling, but it adds architectural interest. One of the biggest eye-sores in my home has become one of the most frequently complimented.. and all for only a couple hundred dollars! For more info see: http://www.thekimsixfix.com/2011/11/how-to-s...

To see more: http://www.thekimsixfix.com/2011/11/how-to-shave-30-years-off-your-kitchen.html

13 Comments

Miriam I New York, NY

Wow, that looks so much better! Great job!

on Aug 22, 2012 · Like 0
LandlightS Roswell, GA

Very nice job. Especially the trim work to hide your patches
Gary

on Aug 22, 2012 · Like 0
TheKimSixFix San Francisco, CA

Thanks. :)

on Aug 23, 2012 · Like 0
Megan V (Our Pinteresting... Westminster, MD

It turned out awesome!!

on Aug 23, 2012 · Like 0
Teresa D Snellville, GA

That's exactly what I've been planning to do to my kitchen! My ceiling is textured though, which opens a whole other can of worms. I like the whole makeover - from your fixture selection to the tile backsplash! Thanks for sharing!

on Aug 23, 2012 · Like 0
Lou Lafayette, LA

Love the lights!

on Aug 23, 2012 · Like 0
MaryAnn D Ocala, FL

I have been wanting to do that for awhile. We also have a textured ceiling.

on Aug 23, 2012 · Like 0
SheilaG, Plum Doodles Acworth, GA

I need to do this project. But first I need to convince hubby that it needs to be done!

on Aug 23, 2012 · Like 2
TheKimSixFix San Francisco, CA

@Thersa D/MaryAnnD It is hard to tell from those photos, but my ceiling is textured too. I did use the spray texture in a can to get the closest match I could and then I added to molding to disguise the imperfect match. Don't let the popcorn stop you! :D

on Aug 24, 2012 · Like 0
Emily L Atlanta, GA

What kind of paint and primer did you use?

on Aug 24, 2012 · Like 0
TheKimSixFix San Francisco, CA

@Emily L You mean on the ceiling? I just primed with regular old latex Kilz and the ceiling paint was Kelley Moore ceiling paint in a matte finish. Nothing special. :)

on Aug 24, 2012 · Like 0
Emily L Atlanta, GA

I'm sorry, I meant the paint used on the cabinets. Brand? Color?

on Aug 24, 2012 · Like 0
TheKimSixFix San Francisco, CA

ooooh! Sorry. That is Benjamin Moore Manchester Tan in Pearl. I have a whole huge post on how I painted the cabinets here: http://www.themoney-pit.com/2012/08/how-to-p... And my full kitchen reveal is here: http://www.themoney-pit.com/2012/08/kitchen-... HTH!

on Aug 24, 2012 · Like 0

Oops! Leave without saving?

Hometalk.com

Hometalk is where people share and help with everything home & garden

Updating a fluorescent box light with LED lighting and decorative molding

NOTE: You can drag and drop your photos to reorder them