Lighting Design Solutions

Recessed Lighting

Recessed lighting is often referred to as can lights in the United States and pot lights in Canada. This popular type of lighting sports fixtures that are mounted above the ceiling in such a manner that they appear flush with it.

Recessed lights include narrow spotlights (also called "spots") or wide-angle floodlights (sometimes called "floods"). Both of these bulbs have their own reflectors. Some fixtures may also have their own reflectors built in, in which case they can take regular bulbs that are less expensive. Either of these types can be incandescent, fluorescent, HID or LED. However, only the incandescent or LED varieties emit narrow enough spotlights.

Recessed light fixtures can be used for concentrated down lighting, which creates attractive and inviting living areas for the home. This effect is perfect for lighting a kitchen counter or bathroom vanity because it confines illumination to one specific area, making detailed tasks easier to perform. Recessed lighting works best with other lighting and can be dimmed for special effects.

Recessed light fixtures can also be used for accent lighting. You can draw attention to a painting, a plant or any other noteworthy object in any room in your home. Rooms may appear larger with recessed light fixtures by washing a wall in light. This technique—perfect for small living areas—adds visual depth by creating shadows and contrasts.

All true can lights are up lights. They are made to sit on the floor and illuminate objects such as plants.