Design Notes
Recessed Light Spacing Guide for Modern Homes
Quick answer
A common starting point is spacing recessed lights about half the ceiling height apart, then adjusting for beam angle and room function.
Starting spacing rule
Use half-ceiling-height spacing as a baseline. For 8-foot ceilings, begin around 4 feet between fixtures and refine by brightness goals.
Wall distance
Keep perimeter cans roughly 2-3 feet from walls to reduce scalloping while preserving vertical illumination.
Task zone override
In kitchens and work zones, place task fixtures based on counters and activity areas instead of strict grid symmetry.
FAQ
Should all recessed lights be on one dimmer?
Better performance comes from zone-based dimmers for ambient and task layers.
Do narrow beam trims need closer spacing?
Yes, narrower beams generally require tighter spacing to maintain even coverage.
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