Recessed lighting, frequently referred to as can lights, pot lights, or downlights, is a versatile lighting fixture installed flush into a ceiling opening to provide a clean, unobstructed look. By tucking the light source into the ceiling, recessed lighting creates a sense of space and modern minimalism while providing powerful ambient, task, or accent illumination. From energy-efficient LED upgrades to new construction housings like the Halo HLB6 series, these fixtures are the foundation of modern interior design.
Project Matcher: Which "Can Light" Do You Need?
Confused by the terminology? Identify your project type below to find the right components:
- I have an empty hole (New Build): You need New Construction Housings (fixtures that nail into exposed ceiling joists).
- I have existing drywall but no light: You need Remodel Housings (fixtures with clips that secure to the drywall from below).
- I have an old can/bulb to replace: You need Retrofit LED Can Lights (all-in-one modules that screw into your existing socket).
- I have shallow ceilings or obstructions: You need Canless Wafer Lights (ultra-thin panels that require no housing and fit almost anywhere).
Recessed Lighting Size Matcher: 4-Inch vs. 6-Inch
- 6-Inch (Standard): The go-to size for general room lighting in living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms. Provides a wide beam spread.
- 4-Inch (Accent/Task): Modern and discreet. Ideal for focused light over kitchen sinks, breakfast nooks, or highlighting artwork.
- 3-Inch & Under (Minimalist): Used for architectural details, cabinet accents, and niche lighting.
Recessed Lighting Color Temperature Guide
Choosing the right Kelvin (K) rating ensures your replacement light provides the proper atmosphere and prevents the room from looking "too yellow" or "too blue".
| 3000K (Soft White) | 4000K (Cool White) | 5000K (Daylight) | |
| Light Appearance | Warm Yellow Glow | Clean Neutral White | Bright Bluish-White |
| Best Applications | Living Rooms, Bedrooms, and Dining Areas | Kitchens, Bathrooms, and Home Offices | Garages, Basements, and Utility Rooms |
| Atmosphere | Warm, cozy, and relaxing | Clean, neutral, and productive | Bright, crisp, and high-visibility |
Choosing Your Style: Recessed Can Lights vs. Canless LEDs
Your biggest choice will be between a traditional can-style system and a modern all-in-one canless light. Read more on our blog here: Canless vs. Can Lights.
| Feature | Traditional Recessed Can Lights | Modern Canless Recessed Lighting |
| Structure | Two-part system: a housing installed in the ceiling plus a separate LED can lights trim. | All-in-one ultra-thin recessed light (or wafer light) with an integrated driver. |
| Best For | New construction projects where you want the long-term flexibility to change trims. | Remodels, shallow ceilings, basements, and areas with obstructions where can lights won't fit. |
| Installation | Housing is installed first, requiring more planning and vertical ceiling depth. | Fast and simple. The slim fixture snaps directly into a hole cut in the drywall. |
Benefits of Recessed Lighting and Downlights
Modern recessed lighting is a versatile and stylish solution that offers more than just illumination.
- Create a Clean, Spacious Feel: Because recessed ceiling lights sit flush with your ceiling, they create an open, uncluttered look that makes rooms feel larger and ceilings appear higher.
- Unmatched Lighting Versatility: The primary strength of recessed lights is their adaptability. You can use them for broad ambient lighting, focused task lighting over a counter, or dramatic accent lighting on artwork.
- Boost Efficiency and Home Value: Upgrading to LED recessed lighting significantly lowers energy bills and provides tens of thousands of hours of maintenance-free use. This permanent, modern upgrade also enhances your home's appeal and value.
Explore Our Recessed Lighting Collections
Find the exact component you need by browsing our specialized subcollections.
- Retrofit Kits: Easily upgrade your old fixtures to efficient LED recessed lighting.
- Canless Lights: The perfect solution for shallow ceilings and easy installs.
- Gimbals: Use adjustable recessed lighting for sloped ceilings or to highlight art.
- Wet Rated: For showers, bathrooms, and outdoor recessed lighting in soffits.
- Smart: Control your recessed lights with Wi-Fi, an app, or your voice.
- Fire Rated: Code-compliant fixtures for multi-family and commercial properties.
- Trimless: "Mud-in" fixtures for a seamless, architectural plaster-in finish.
- Housings: The foundational cans for new construction projects.
- Sizes & Shapes: From 2-inch mini-lights to 8-inch commercial downlights, in classic Round or modern Square.
Shop Recessed Lighting, Can Lights & LED Downlights
At Bees Lighting, we have every type of recessed lighting you need to complete your project. From foundational recessed can lights to the latest in LED recessed lighting technology, you'll find the perfect fit. If you have questions or need help with a layout, call our lighting experts at 855-303-0665.
