What Are Types of Recessed Lighting?

Recessed lighting is one of the most common types of lighting installed in residential, commercial, and office spaces. The reason why recessed lighting is so common is because its design is unobtrusive. Meaning that it can illuminate any space without adding much to the design element of the room. 

This type of lighting is perfect where there are a lot of other visual elements in play like a chandelier, wall art, and other decorative pieces. So, with recessed lighting, you can illuminate the room without any visual clutter.  They are also great for complementing illumination in a room. For example, they are perfect for accent lighting, whereas other lighting types can be added for ambiance. 

However, recessed lighting is not of one kind only. You will find a dozen kinds of recessed lighting available at stores which makes the choice difficult. In this article, you will learn about the types of recessed lighting available and the details of each type. With this information, you can make the right choice.

What is Recessed Lighting？

Recessed lighting is fixtures installed into a hollow opening in a ceiling or wall, giving the appearance of lights that "recede" into the surface. These lights provide a clean and streamlined look since they sit flush with the surface.

Recessed lighting is ideal for spaces where traditional hanging fixtures might be impractical, such as office spaces that require functional lighting without decorative elements. It’s also perfect for large areas where a single fixture may not suffice. Recessed lights can be arranged in a grid-like pattern to ensure even illumination, allowing one or two visually appealing fixtures to shine.

This type of lighting is also great for creating layered lighting schemes, combining ambient, task, and accent lighting for a cohesive design. You can choose from different bulb types for your recessed lighting, such as:

• LED Recessed Lighting for energy efficiency and long lifespan.
• Halogen Recessed Lighting for bright, white light ideal for accentuating features.
• CFL (Compact Fluorescent Lamp) for a more budget-friendly, energy-efficient option.

Types of Recessed Lighting 

Let’s delve into the types of recessed lighting fixtures commonly available:

1. New Construction Recessed Lighting

New construction recessed lighting is designed for spaces where the ceiling is not yet finished, such as during the construction of a new home or room. These fixtures are mounted to the ceiling joists, providing a secure and stable installation. They are ideal for ensuring the lighting is integrated seamlessly into the overall design of the space.

These fixtures also allow for precise placement, ensuring optimal light distribution. For homes undergoing renovations or new builds, they’re the go-to choice for high-quality lighting solutions.

2. Remodel/Recessed Lighting

Remodel recessed lighting is intended for installation in existing ceilings. These fixtures are particularly useful for retrofit projects where you want to add recessed lighting to a completed room without tearing down the ceiling. They’re held in place by clips that secure the housing to the drywall.

This type of fixture is a favorite among DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. They are quite common as they offer a quick way to modernize spaces without extensive construction work.

3. IC (Insulation Contact) Rated Lighting

IC-rated recessed lighting is designed for use in ceilings with insulation. The housing of these fixtures is constructed to prevent overheating and reduce the risk of fire, making them a safe choice for insulated spaces.

IC-rated fixtures are particularly important in climates where insulation is essential for energy efficiency. These fixtures ensure that lighting doesn’t compromise the safety or thermal integrity of your home.

4. Non-IC Rated Lighting

Non-IC-rated recessed lighting is suitable for areas without insulation. These fixtures are typically used in spaces like basements or garages where insulation is not a concern. It’s crucial to ensure that there is sufficient clearance around these lights to prevent overheating.

For homeowners, understanding the difference between IC and non-IC-rated lighting is key to making safe and informed decisions about installation.

If you're curious about the costs involved in installing recessed lighting in your home, you might want to check out our guide on how much does It cost to install recessed lighting. It covers all the factors that can affect the overall price, helping you plan and budget effectively.

How to Choose Different Designs of Recessed Lighting Fixtures?

When choosing recessed lighting, there are some design options to keep in mind. Although recessed lighting sits flush with the surface, they do have some design options that you can choose from, most commonly being the size and shape of the lighting. 

1. Size and Shape of Recessed Lighting

Recessed lighting comes in various sizes, typically ranging from 4 to 6 inches in diameter. Smaller fixtures provide a more focused light and are ideal for task lighting, while larger fixtures offer broader illumination, making them suitable for ambient lighting.

The shape of the fixture can also influence its functionality. Round fixtures are versatile and blend well with most interiors, while square fixtures offer a contemporary aesthetic for modern spaces.

2. Trim Options

The trim of a recessed light affects its appearance and functionality. Popular options include:

• Baffle Trim: Reduces glare by absorbing excess light.
• Reflector Trim: Enhances brightness by reflecting light downward.
• Adjustable Trim: Allows the light to be directed to specific areas, ideal for accent lighting. 
• Eyeball Trim: Similar to adjustable trim but with a protruding bulb, thus a more prominent appearance.

Trims not only influence the light’s effectiveness but also contribute to the overall design of the room, making them a crucial consideration.

3. Beam Angle and Light Output

The beam angle of a recessed light determines how the light is distributed. Narrow beam angles are ideal for highlighting specific areas, while wide beam angles provide general illumination. Additionally, consider the lumen output of the bulb to ensure it meets your lighting needs.

For example, a kitchen might require high lumen output for task lighting, while a bedroom may benefit from softer, more diffused light for relaxation.

How to Choose the Right Recessed Lighting for Different Rooms?

Here is our mini-guide to help you choose the right type of recessed lighting according to the room type:

1. Living Room or Family Room

Living rooms look great when they use a combination of ambient and accent lighting. Use larger recessed fixtures with a warm light temperature to create a cozy atmosphere, and pair them with adjustable trims to highlight artwork or architectural details.

Layering recessed lighting with floor lamps or wall sconces can add depth and dimension to the space, making it feel inviting and well-balanced.

2. Kitchen

In kitchens, task lighting is key. Use recessed lights with high CRI output above work areas like countertops, sinks, and islands. Opt for LED bulbs with a cool white temperature for better visibility.

Additionally, consider using dimmable lights or CCT5 LED lighting to transition from functional task lighting during meal prep to softer lighting for evening gatherings.

3. Bathroom

Bathrooms require moisture-resistant recessed lighting, especially near showers or bathtubs. Choose IC-rated fixtures with a frosted trim to reduce glare and provide soft, even lighting.

For a spa-like ambiance, integrate LED lights with adjustable color temperatures to switch between energizing bright light and calming warm light.

4. Hallways and Accent Spaces

For hallways, use recessed lighting with a wide beam angle to evenly illuminate the space. For more detailed guidance, check out hallway lighting ideas for your home. In accent areas, such as niches or shelves, use adjustable trims to direct light to specific features.

Recessed lights in hallways can also be paired with motion sensors for added convenience and energy efficiency.

5. Dining Room

Choosing the right lighting for your dining room is crucial to setting the right tone for meals and gatherings. The dining area requires a balance of ambient and task lighting to ensure both functionality and atmosphere. 

If you're looking for tips on how to get the perfect lighting setup, check out our detailed guide on how to choose dining room lighting. This guide will help you make informed choices about the best-recessed lighting for your dining space.

Conclusion

Recessed lighting comes in different types. You can choose the type of recessed lighting that meets your room’s needs. 

For high-quality recessed lighting at wholesale prices, ComiLED is the best pick. Their high-quality recessed lighting fixtures are designed with both style and durability in mind. In their range, you will find recessed lighting that matches your needs and enhances your space. With ComiLED, you can trust that your lighting will not only look great but also perform reliably for years to come.

Related reading: Are Integrated LED Light Fixtures Worth It?