Master the 4-foot spacing rule, calculate the perfect number of lights, and learn professional placement strategies for every room in your San Diego home.
The most important principle in recessed lighting is the 4-foot spacing rule. This means lights should be spaced approximately 4 feet apart from each other and 2 feet from walls. This creates even, shadow-free illumination without dark spots or overly bright areas.
Quick Formula
Number of Lights = (Room Length × Room Width) ÷ 16
This gives you a baseline for 4-foot spacing in standard 8-9 foot
ceilings.
Typical living room (15' × 18'): 6-8 recessed lights
Typical kitchen (12' × 15'): 8-12 recessed lights
Kitchen Pro Tip
Combine recessed lights with under-cabinet lighting for the best results. Recessed lights provide ambient lighting while under-cabinet lights eliminate shadows on countertops.
Master bedroom (14' × 16'): 4-6 recessed lights
Standard bathroom (8' × 10'): 4-6 recessed lights
The beam angle determines how wide the light spreads. Choosing the right angle is just as important as the number of lights.
Best for: Accent lighting, artwork, architectural features, kitchen islands
Best for: General ambient lighting, living rooms, bedrooms, hallways
Best for: Low ceilings, small rooms, even general illumination
Standard spacing assumes 8-9 foot ceilings. Adjust your spacing based on ceiling height:
Professional recessed lighting installation typically costs:
DIY Warning
Recessed lighting installation requires cutting into ceilings, running new wiring, and ensuring proper electrical connections. Improper installation can cause fire hazards, code violations, and expensive repairs. Always hire a licensed electrician for this work.
Our licensed electricians serve San Diego County with expert recessed lighting design and installation. We'll create the perfect lighting plan for your home.
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