10 The Best Recessed Lighting Fixtures We've Tested 2024 | SHR

Purpose

The first thing to consider when buying recessed lighting fixtures is the purpose of the space where they will be installed. For example, if you're installing them in a kitchen, you'll need brighter lights than you would in a bedroom or living room. Consider the activities that will take place in the room and choose a lighting fixture that will provide the appropriate amount of light.

Size

Recessed lighting fixtures come in different sizes, so it's important to choose a fixture that fits the space. A fixture that is too small will look out of place, while a fixture that is too large will overpower the room. Consider the size of the room and the height of the ceiling when choosing a fixture.

Type of Bulb

Recessed lighting fixtures can use different types of bulbs, including incandescent, fluorescent, and LED. LED bulbs are a popular choice because they are energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan than other types of bulbs. However, they can be more expensive upfront.

Color Temperature

The color temperature of the light is another important consideration. The color temperature is measured in kelvins (K) and determines the warmth or coolness of the light. A lower kelvin number (2700K-3000K) produces a warmer, more yellow light that is suitable for bedrooms and living rooms. A higher kelvin number (4000K-5000K) produces a cooler, more blue light that is suitable for kitchens and bathrooms.

Trim Style

The trim style of the recessed lighting fixture is also important. There are a variety of trim styles available, including baffle, reflector, and lensed. Baffle trims have a ribbed interior that reduces glare, reflector trims have a shiny interior that reflects light, and lensed trims have a lens over the bulb that diffuses light. Choose a trim style that fits the style of your home and the purpose of the room.

Dimming Capabilities

If you want to be able to control the brightness of the recessed lighting fixtures, consider purchasing fixtures with dimming capabilities. This will allow you to adjust the brightness of the lights depending on the time of day and the activities taking place in the room.

Installation

Finally, consider the installation process when choosing recessed lighting fixtures. If you're not comfortable with electrical work, you may want to hire a professional to install the fixtures for you. Additionally, consider the type of ceiling you have and whether it's compatible with the fixtures you're considering.

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Fixed Recessed Lighting Fixtures

Fixed recessed lighting fixtures are the most basic type of recessed lighting. As the name suggests, these fixtures are stationary and do not move. They are installed directly into the ceiling and are great for providing ambient lighting to a room. Fixed recessed lighting fixtures are available in a variety of sizes and styles, making them a versatile choice for any space.

Adjustable Recessed Lighting Fixtures

Adjustable recessed lighting fixtures are a more versatile option than fixed recessed lighting fixtures. These fixtures have an adjustable trim that allows you to direct the light to a specific area. This makes them a great choice for highlighting artwork or architectural features in a room. Adjustable recessed lighting fixtures are available in different styles, including gimbal, eyeball, and wall wash trims.

Shower Trim Recessed Lighting Fixtures

Shower trim recessed lighting fixtures are specifically designed for use in bathrooms or other damp locations. These fixtures have a special trim that creates a seal between the fixture and the ceiling to prevent moisture from entering the fixture. Shower trim recessed lighting fixtures are also available in different styles and sizes.

Pinhole Recessed Lighting Fixtures

Pinhole recessed lighting fixtures are a modern and unique option for providing ambient lighting in a room. These fixtures have a small hole in the trim that allows a small amount of light to escape, creating a subtle and stylish effect. Pinhole recessed lighting fixtures are available in a variety of sizes and are a great choice for contemporary or minimalist spaces.

Wall Wash Recessed Lighting Fixtures

Wall wash recessed lighting fixtures are designed to wash a wall with light, creating a dramatic effect in a room. These fixtures have a wider trim than other types of recessed lighting fixtures, allowing them to spread light across a larger area. Wall wash recessed lighting fixtures are a great choice for highlighting artwork or creating a focal point in a room.

In conclusion, there are several factors to consider when purchasing recessed lighting fixtures, including purpose, size, type of bulb, color temperature, trim style, dimming capabilities, and installation. By taking these factors into consideration, you can choose the right lighting fixtures for your home that will provide the appropriate amount of light and enhance the overall design of the space.