A lighting unit includes an architectural panel having an overall thickness that is measured between a first surface that is configured to be exposed to light output by the lighting unit and a second surface that is opposite the first surface, and a light fixture embedded in the architectural panel. The light fixture includes a solid state light source, an optic, a power supply and a driver circuit that at least partially embedded in the recess of the panel. The light fixture is configured to output light in an output direction extending out away from the first surface of the panel. The light fixture extends from the first surface of the panel in a direction opposite the output direction by a distance that is less than the overall thickness of the architectural panel.