How to Select Recessed Accent Lighting

Accent lights can highlight architectural features, spotlight your favorite plant or call attention to artwork and sculptures. A wash of light against a single wall can create subtle accents in your living room and bring warmth and romance into your bedroom. A clever touch with recessed accent lighting goes a long way towards giving your home dramatic flair.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Identify what you want place the focus in a room.

2. Measure the object or display horizontally to determine the ideal beam width. Ideally, the beam of light from the fixture should focus on the display itself and not on the wall behind it.

3. Choose lamps with a beam spread that is close to the width the object. You’ll find the beam spread of each lamp in the manufacturer's catalog.

4. Decide between low-voltage and line-voltage lights. Low-voltage lights, like the MR16, offer a variety of colors and intensities and are good for conserving energy. If you choose line-voltage lights, avoid fluorescent lights because they are more difficult to focus precisely.

5. Choose lighting fixtures that allow you to aim the light both vertically and horizontally for maximum impact.

6. Choose trims and baffles that fit with your design scheme.

Tips & Warnings

• You can control the beam width and intensity of the light by varying the distance. To widen the beam and lessen the intensity of the light, move the fixture further away from the object. Moving the light closer will narrow the beam and increase its intensity.
• Avoid using lights that are not rated IC (for insulation contact) if there’s a chance that lights will come into contact with insulation.
• Be sure to comply with local ordinances when installing new lighting in your home.