How to Determine the Placement of Recessed Lighting in a Room

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Recessed lighting has many different functions. It can light up a particular piece of artwork or decorative area. It can also be used to illuminate a work area, such as a work bench or frequently used counter in your kitchen. Other common areas where you might place recessed lighting include inside a clothes or linen closet or along a hallway. No matter what room or area you are planning to install your recessed lighting, you need to think carefully about the exact placement.

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Step 1

Figure out the exact room and area where you want to place your recessed lighting. Then, you can determine a more exact placement. Against a wall, in a kitchen, above a window, in a hallway and near a fireplace are some common areas where you might place recessed lighting.

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Step 2

Place your recessed lighting approximately 2 feet from the wall if your purpose is to light up a particular painting, piece of artwork or other decorative area. This is for an 8-foot ceiling. Space the recessed lighting evenly, using enough lights to illuminate the entire area.

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Step 3

Use at least four lights in your recessed lighting to light up a general area, such as in your kitchen. Space the light about 3 feet, 2 inches from the walls and from each other. The larger the area you want to light up, the more lights you will need to use.

Step 4

Keep the placement of your recessed lighting symmetrical and even. Haphazard placement will create uneven lighting and will look awkward if you change the decorative elements or furniture placement in your room.

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