3 Common Recessed Lighting Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

Recessed lighting is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its sleek and minimalist design. But it doesn’t always look its best. If not properly executed, recessed lighting can cast unflattering downward shadows and lead to what designers call “Swiss cheese ceiling.” 

But when carefully designed and applied, recessed lighting can look elegant and high-end. Below, we share three common mistakes people make with recessed lighting. Here’s how our recessed lighting installation company can fix those issues and create a visually dynamic atmosphere in your Coeur d’Alene, ID, home. 

SEE ALSO: The Architect’s Guide to Using Ketra Lighting in Home Designs 

1. The Trims Don’t Match Your Ceiling 

One of the most significant issues with recessed lighting is when the trims do not blend seamlessly with the ceiling. The goal of recessed lighting is to draw attention to the objects or areas being illuminated, not the lights themselves. To address this, high-end brands such as DMF Lighting and Ketra offer a wide range of trims designed to match any type of ceiling, from wooden to decorative styles. These trims are available in various finishes, including bronze, silver, white, black, clear, and even custom colors. Additionally, opting for DMF's small aperture lights, which can be as small as two inches in diameter, helps minimize the visual footprint of the fixtures.

2. Lights Are Too Bright 

Another common mistake is when recessed lights appear overly bright, causing discomfort or a harsh atmosphere. To achieve the perfect lighting level, consider using color-tunable lights with smart dimmers and wall keypads. These innovative lighting systems allow you to adjust the warmth and brightness of the recessed lights, creating a more inviting room ambiance. With warm-dimming technology, you can create a cozy atmosphere for relaxing evenings or increase the brightness for tasks that require more attention. 

3. The Atmosphere Falls Flat 

Recessed lighting has the potential to create a captivating atmosphere in your living spaces. However, if not carefully planned, it can result in a flat and uninspiring lighting scheme. 

To avoid this, we apply recessed lights strategically to highlight specific areas, such as walls or artwork. By directing the lights toward these features, you can create a focal point, adding depth and visual interest to the room. Instead of relying on a wide bath of light over the entire space, we use recessed lights to accentuate key elements, resulting in a more dynamic and engaging ambiance.

Ready for Better Recessed Lighting? 

As a professional lighting design company, we understand the importance of creating a lighting layout that accentuates your home's interior and enhances your overall experience. Whether you need assistance selecting the right trims, installing a lighting control system, or strategically placing recessed lights for optimal impact, our team is here to help you achieve the perfect lighting design.  

Contact Wipliance in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, to get started on your home lighting design today!