Recessed lighting is a popular choice for kitchens, offering a clean look and bright, even illumination. But where to place recessed lights in kitchen spaces for the best results? Proper placement ensures your kitchen is well-lit for cooking, cleaning, and entertaining. This guide will help you plan the perfect recessed lighting layout for any kitchen.

Why Placement Matters for Kitchen Recessed Lighting

Getting the placement right means your kitchen will have fewer shadows, better task lighting, and an overall inviting atmosphere. Poorly placed lights can leave dark corners or create glare on work surfaces.

General Rules for Placing Recessed Lights in the Kitchen

1. Start With a Lighting Plan
Sketch out your kitchen and mark key areas: countertops, island, sink, stove, and walkways.

2. Even Spacing Is Key
A common rule is to space recessed lights 4 to 6 feet apart. For standard 8-foot ceilings, place lights about 4 feet apart; for higher ceilings, increase spacing slightly.

3. Keep Lights Away From Cabinets
To avoid creating shadows, position recessed lights 12 to 18 inches away from upper cabinets or the edge of countertops.

4. Center Lights Over Work Areas
Place recessed lights directly above key work zones like the sink, stove, and prep areas to ensure bright, focused illumination.

5. Highlight the Kitchen Island
If you have a kitchen island, use two or more recessed lights spaced evenly above it for task lighting. For larger islands, consider a row of lights.

6. Avoid Overcrowding
Too many lights can make the kitchen look harsh and overlit. Balance recessed lighting with pendants or under-cabinet lights for a layered effect.

Sample Kitchen Recessed Lighting Layout

A good rule of thumb for recessed lighting placement is to divide the ceiling height by two to determine how far apart to space the lights.

Example:
For an 8-foot ceiling:
8 ÷ 2 = 4
Space recessed lights about 4 feet apart.

Tips for the Best Kitchen Lighting

• Use adjustable or directional recessed lights for flexibility.

• Choose LED bulbs for energy efficiency and long life.

• Add dimmers to control brightness for different tasks and moods.

• Combine recessed lights with other fixtures (like pendants or under-cabinet lights) for complete coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many recessed lights do I need in my kitchen?
It depends on the kitchen’s size and layout. A typical 10x10 kitchen may need 4–6 recessed lights, spaced evenly.

Should recessed lights be centered in the room?
Focus on centering lights over work areas, not just the room itself, for the best task lighting.

Can I install recessed lights myself?
If you’re comfortable with electrical work, you can DIY, but hiring a licensed electrician ensures safety and proper placement.

Conclusion

Knowing where to place recessed lights in kitchen spaces is key to creating a bright, functional, and stylish room. Plan your layout with even spacing, focus on work areas, and combine recessed lighting with other fixtures for the best results. With these tips, your kitchen will shine in every way!