I'm working on a desk setup and adding an oak shelf above it, which will block some light. I'm considering installing a Hue Gradient strip that comes with a built-in diffuser underneath this shelf. Typically, I would make the router cut match the size of the light or its diffuser, but since this diffuser has rounded edges, I'm unsure about the best approach. Should I router it to the same width and slightly below the light to minimize visibility of the strip, or go for a channel that matches the depth of the strip and create a chamfer where the curve begins? Any ideas or experiences would be hugely appreciated!
2 Answers
I recommend a setup like the one I did. Picture this: the LED light source is your 'yellow', and frosted acrylic is 'white'. If frosted acrylic is hard to come by, lightly sand some clear acrylic with 400+ grit sandpaper on the inner side to diffuse the light. It keeps the look sleek and softens the brightness.
One solid approach is to recess the strip enough so it isn't directly visible from your seated position. This won't reduce the light intensity from the overhead strip, but it’ll definitely make for a cleaner look. If you want to get fancy, paint inside the groove with gloss white paint; it helps bounce some of that light back and increases illumination! Having 35 years in optical and lighting design, I can guarantee this method works wonders!
Interesting! I hadn't considered that option before.