Recessed Lighting Layout: How Many Lights and Where to Put Them
Recessed lighting gives a clean, modern look and even illumination — when it's laid out correctly. Here is how our electricians plan a room.
Spacing rule of thumb
Divide the ceiling height by two to get the spacing between lights. For an 8-foot ceiling, space lights about 4 feet apart and 2 feet from the walls. Adjust for furniture and focal points.
How many lights?
A 12×12 living room typically needs 4–6 lights; a 15×20 kitchen may need 8–10 plus task lighting over counters and the island.
4-inch vs 6-inch
Slim 4-inch LEDs look sleek and work well in kitchens and hallways. 6-inch lights cover more area in large rooms with high ceilings.
Color temperature
2700K–3000K for living areas and bedrooms; 3500K–4000K for kitchens, baths and garages. Selectable-CCT fixtures let you change your mind.
Always add a dimmer
A compatible LED dimmer prevents flicker and lets you set the mood. Smart dimmers add scenes and schedules.
See lighting installation or local pages for Chapel Hill, Wake Forest, Holly Springs and Matthews.