Function

• Ambient widespread lighting or direct downward lighting is each achievable with recessed lighting.
  
  

Types

• Fixtures are available in standards line voltage, fluorescent or low-voltage halogen lights.
  
  

Countertops

• Installing recessed lighting under kitchen cabinets lights the countertops in bright light. The lights will be about three feet from the counter so that they provide direct lighting. This enables you to see the countertops in your work area clearly.
  
  

Retrofits

• Retrofit lighting kits are available to add recessed lighting in between joists in the ceiling. They slip into the ceiling with holes for the wiring. Recessed lights installed in the ceiling provide ambient light for the island area or the entire kitchen.
  
  

Baffles and Dimmers

• Applying deep baffles and open trims on recessed lighting allows more direct and brighter light. Adding dimmer switches to each area of lighting allows you to use partial sections of lights or to dim sections when you do not need all of the lights on at once.
  
  

Considerations

• If you are adding recessed lighting to the ceiling with a retrofit kit, you will need to purchase an IC housing, which is safe to install next to insulation without risk of fires.