Kitchen lighting?

Question

I'm in the process of remodeling my kitchen with new flooring, appliances, cabinets and lighting. I had a false ceiling with floricent lights above the 2x4 paneling. I've removed the paneling and lights and now am thinking of installing recessed lights but don't know how to space them or where. The ceiling is 8-ft and the cabinets are going to be castled (staggered to the ceiling). I really hate to have a shadow on the countertop.

How far out over the sink should one be placed?

Another problem, recessed lighting says insulation should not be within 3 inches. The area above the kitchen is an attic with blown-in insulation. I really don't want the cold to be coming in around them. How can that be avoided?

Answer 1

I generally place the cans centered over the cabinet doors and aprox 12 to 18 inches away from the doors.

Center over the sink.

Use IC (insulated ceiling) rated cans.

Also, try to install "under cabinet lights" to avoid shadows. They are also good for night lights.

Answer 2

Two things; 1) You need to get IC rated recessed lights,  they can come in  contact with insulation.

2)  The lights need to be mounted between 18" and 24" off the wall, so that they shine on the counters from directly overhead.  If they are further away, your shadow blocks the light in front of you.

Under-counter lights are the absolute best when it comes to food prep.   Then you can place recessed anywhere you want in the ceiling.   You might consider a ceiling fan for comfort too.