What is recessed lighting?

Recessed lighting, also called can lighting or pot lights, refers to fixtures installed directly into ceiling cavities so that trim rings sit flush with the drywall or soffit surface. The fixture housing (the "can") sits above the ceiling plane, with only a circular trim ring, bezel, or baffle visible from below. These lights are wired to building electrical systems and come in standard sizes like 4-inch, 5-inch, and 6-inch diameters.

In kitchen remodels, recessed lights serve as the foundation of ambient lighting, providing even, unobtrusive illumination across countertops, islands, and work zones. Many homeowners layer recessed fixtures with pendant lights or under-cabinet task lighting to create flexible lighting schemes. Kitchen designers often space recessed cans 4 to 6 feet apart in grid patterns across ceilings to avoid dark spots and shadows.

Common trim options include baffle trims (which reduce glare), reflector trims (which direct light downward), and adjustable trims (which angle light into specific areas). Recessed fixtures may use incandescent, halogen, LED, or fluorescent bulbs, though LED is now standard in most new Connecticut kitchens due to energy efficiency and longevity. Proper installation requires building permits and coordination with framing, electrical, and insulation work, making recessed lighting a critical planning element in any kitchen design project.