Cove Lighting - several cove lighting systems - a very low profile xenon light strip, three low profile linkable fluorescent light fixtures, and rope light. Definition of Cove Lighting
Cove lighting is a form of indirect lighting that emanates from ledges, valances, or horizontal recesses on the upper wall or in the ceiling of a room.

The Function of Cove Lighting
Cove lighting may be quite functional by providing most or all of the general lighting in a space or it can be purely aesthetic in nature by providing only some of the needed light for a space - sometimes in color.

The Aesthetics of Cove Lighting
Cove lighting often provides a soft, warm feel to an architectural space. Light from the cove lighting fixtures is directed upward and is distributed over the ceiling and/or the upper wall of a room. The reflected light off the ceiling usually provides very even and pleasant light throughout the room. It creates comfortable ambient light that helps to balance the space. Most people have a very positive reaction to the indirect lighting provided by cove lighting. Sometimes cove lighting can offer opportunities to be a little creative and make an aesthetic statement. This can be especially true if the cove lighting fixtures provide colored light.

The Light Sources Used In Cove Lighting
The light fixtures used for cove lighting may use incandescent, low voltage xenon, or fluorescent. These light sources can provide a good deal of light, a modest amount of light, or sometimes just a hint of light depending on the needs of the space or the desires of the lighting designer.  Incandescent, low voltage xenon, and even SOME fluorescent light fixtures can be controlled by a dimmer switch. Incandescent lamps and fluorescent lamps are both capable of providing colored light if that is desirable. Fluorescent lamps use electricity very efficiently in providing a given amount of light.

Where Can Cove Lighting Be Used?
Cove lighting can be used very successfully in a great many locations: art galleries, bathrooms, bedrooms, churches, conference rooms, dining rooms, game rooms, hallways, hotel rooms, kitchens, libraries, living rooms, museums, offices, restaurants, studies, and taverns.

Where Should Cove Lighting Be Placed?
The top of the cove should be located about 10-14 inches from the ceiling and designed in such a way as to allow the light coming from the cove to "wash" as much of the ceiling as possible with light.