How to Layout Recessed Lighting

One of the most important principles to understand when designing a recessed lighting layout is beam angle. In recessed cans, the light is produced in the shape of a cone. You picture the light starting as a point at the light fixture and forming a circle on the floor. The beam angle is the angle of this light out of the bulb. For example a 60-degree beam angle will produce a circle of light about 9 feet across on the floor if the fixture is 8 feet off the floor. See a Diagram.

That is just one part of the formula. That circle of light we now have on the floor is not all the same intensity. About five and a half feet of that circle is good intense light while the remainder is spill over and diminishes as it gets further from the center. This is very important to understand. With this information, you can overlap the spill over light so that you end up with a nice even light pattern over the entire area you are trying to illuminate. Something to remember when you are planning this out is something called the work plane. This is an area about 30" above the floor. It is an area where most tasks take place.

The work plane is important because as the distance between the light fixture and the surface to be lit decreases, so does that circle we spoke about. In a living room or den, designing the lighting plan so that we have even light on the floor is fine. In a kitchen though, this work plane becomes far more critical. This is why in a kitchen, keeping recessed lights about 4 feet apart, creates a pattern that is even on the work plane with the intense portion of the circle.

There are some other things besides the bulb and the can that shape the light pattern. The finish trim on recessed lights can vary the pattern of light. A wall washer creates a half cone that can be directed at a wall or fireplace. A pin spot trim can direct the light in a very narrow beam to light a small object.

This should give you a basic idea of what is involved when you undertake a recessed lighting layout. If you would like to learn more or have questions, please visit us at the links below.

(c) Copyright 2005 Paul Forte. All rights reserved.

Paul Forte has been in the lighting and electrical field for over 25 years. He has helped countless homeowners across the country with their lighting needs through his website. he will be appearing on an upcoming episode of "It Takes a Thief" on the discovery channel installing some security lighting. How to Layout Recessed Lighting Visit Our Home Page for more information

---

Aluminium Conservatories

The conservatory is a popular addition to homes around the... Read More

Apartment Inspection Checklist

You have found an apartment you like and you are... Read More

Are Your Ducts Making You Sick?

If you have a heating or cooling systems that uses... Read More

A Beautiful Carpet Sets The Mood Of Any Room

The first discovered carpet dates back to 1480 BC in... Read More

Heat Up the Hot Tub from 20,000 Feet

Homeowners are getting high-tech when it comes to controlling the... Read More

Measure Your Window for Verticals and Horizontal blinds, Wood blinds, Faux Wood Plantation Shutters

Here are five important things to remember.1. Use a steel... Read More

Change The Style Of Your Interior With A Minimum Of Costs

The style of your interior depends for a great part... Read More

How To Choose Decorative, Recessed Locking Mailboxes

Do you need a decorative, quality, recessed locking mailbox for... Read More

Remodeling Online

Remodeling PlansMaking remodeling plans for a house helps you to... Read More

Inspecting your Swimming Pool

With the varied availability of swimming pool equipment and designs,... Read More

Candle Making 101

If you'd like to try your hand at candle making,... Read More

New Construction Windows Or Replacement Windows? Which Is Right For You?

Hello, my name is John Rocco.I grew up around the... Read More

How About a Jungle Mural to Put Some Swing Into Your Child?s Room?

If your child loves all different types of animals, a... Read More

Your Home is Your Symphony

"Dr. Carl Sagan once wrote, "Somewhere, something incredible is waiting... Read More

Planning Your In-Wall Speaker System

So you've finally decided to get your favorite music throughout... Read More

Reuse Works for the Workshop

The workshop is a great place for reusing items formally... Read More

Painting and Decorating Tile

Ceramic tile can be beautiful and elegant. But it can... Read More

Bathroom Interior Design

Any advice or guide on the interior design of a... Read More

Installing a Toilet

The installation of a toilet is a relatively easy job... Read More

Buying House Plans Online

The Benefits of Self BuildingInvesting in property had always been... Read More

Buyers Guide For Modern Mailboxes

Modern mailboxes are made predominately from cast aluminum or stainless... Read More

Where?s the Care Label for my New Bedspread?

I love bedspreads, don't you? A comforter can be used... Read More

Light Up Your Kitchen with the Right Lighting!

The proper lighting in a room can make or break... Read More

Laminate Flooring Is Attractive And Long Lasting

Laminate flooring is perfect for people who want to install... Read More

Unique and Imaginative Wall Storage Ideas

Everyone can use more organization in their lives (except those... Read More

Bedding is Fashion for the Bed

Ladies, we spend a lot of time in the morning... Read More

Outdoor Kitchens ? Simple and Sophisticated

After September 11, many of us decided to stay closer... Read More

Improving Your Bathrooms Appearance can be as Simple as Changing Your Bathroom Cabinets

Your choice of bathroom cabinet can affect the look and... Read More

Choosing a Vinyl Replacement Window Contractor

Whenever I write an article, it's usually tailored to the... Read More

Learning Interior Design

Learning interior design can be a simple or complicated task... Read More

Save Money with a Solar Pool Heater & Cover

Heat your pool with a Solar Pool Heater and save... Read More

Your Candles Are Killing You and Your Furniture - Substitute It!

Even though most of the houses are well lighted with... Read More

Wall Oven - A Necessity For The Disabled

Wall ovens, available in electric and gas forms, are best... Read More