Recessed lighting done well disappears into the ceiling. Done badly, it leaves a room feeling like an airport. Most of the difference is in the layout.
Spacing
A useful starting rule is to space the lights at about half the ceiling height. With an eight-foot ceiling, that is roughly four feet apart. Keep the outer row two to three feet from the walls so the walls are lit and the room feels larger.
How many
Count what the room needs rather than filling a grid. Kitchens need light over the counters, not over your head where you cast a shadow on your work. Living rooms need fewer lights, on dimmers.
Color temperature
2700K is warm and suits living rooms and bedrooms. 3000K is a clean, neutral white for kitchens and baths. 4000K and above is for garages and work areas. Keep one color within a room.
Dimmers
Put every group on an LED-rated dimmer. See switch and dimmer installation.
Installation in a finished ceiling
Modern slim LED lights need no bulky housing and fit between joists. Recessed lighting installation usually needs no patching: the only openings are the ones for the lights.
Related projects
Pair recessed lights with pendants or under-cabinet lights from our lighting installation service, continue the plan outside with outdoor lighting, or add scenes with smart home wiring. For commercial spaces, see LED lighting retrofit.
Switch and Dimmer Installation near you
We offer switch and dimmer installation in every town we serve, including Woodbridge, Newark, Trenton, Clifton, Elizabeth and Jersey City. See all locations.
Quick answers
Can recessed lights go in an insulated ceiling?
Yes, with fixtures rated for contact with insulation.
Can they go in a shower?
Yes, with wet-rated trims.