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Recessed lighting placement in the ceiling is calculated based on the surface, object, or area to be illuminated. In this post, I’ll explain how to manually calculate the placement for your lights, and then give you a calculator that does it all for you!
Determining the right recessed lighting placement for the space is an important part of designing a beautiful and functional lighting scheme. Learn to calculate the best recessed lighting spacing as well as the number of lights you need to provide the right lighting effect.
Creating the correct recessed light spacing in a room takes careful measuring and some simple math. For accent lighting, a good rule of thumb is to place the recessed lighting fixtures 4 to 6 feet apart. For even lighting throughout the room, divide the height of the ceiling by two.
In preparation for your recessed lighting project, you will need to determine how to layout your recessed lighting before you begin. Understanding the layout will also help you to shop for recessed lighting fixtures and develop an installation game plan.
Whether you’re installing recessed lights in new construction or remodeling a room, first plan your light placement. Then mark the planned locations before drilling or cutting any holes. Use the template provided with your light kit to draw the outline for each opening.
The recessed lights should be aligned and equally spaced across the ceiling. Resist the temptation to place the lights according to objects in the room (such as furniture). Below are some of the most common layouts for general lighting.
Size. One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is the size of the recessed lights. The most common sizes are 4-inch and 6-inch diameters, though other sizes are available depending on your needs. Four-inch lights are ideal for smaller spaces, such as hallways, closets, or accent lighting areas, where subtlety is key.
Before you start the installation process, here are six spacing tips to help you calculate and design the best layout for your recessed lighting.
Installing Recessed Lighting. When working with electricity, always: Turn off the electricity at the main fuse box (or the circuit breaker box) that controls the power to the fixture or the room you’re working on. Test the wires to ensure the power is off. Place the wall switch in the off position.
A general rule of thumb is to place recessed lights 4–6 feet apart. For a 12-by-12-foot room, you might need four to six lights to provide adequate illumination. You should also consider factors like natural light sources and how you use the room.