Plan · Ceiling

Recessed light layout planner

Build an even, measured ceiling grid from room size, desired spacing, and a clear wall offset.

Question
How many recessed lights fit in this room?
Runs
Locally in this browser
Reviewed
2026-08-06
01

Draft the ceiling

Begin with clear dimensions, not nominal plans.

Unit system
Live result
Even grid4 × 3 · 12 points

Redistributed within the 2 ft perimeter offset.

Length spacing3.33 ft
Width spacing4 ft

Do not cut from this drawing. Coordinate structure, services, beam data, product ratings, controls, and wiring with qualified professionals.

From number to decision

Measure.
Read. Verify.

A 14 × 12 ft ceiling with 4 ft maximum spacing and a 2 ft offset resolves to a 4 × 3 grid redistributed inside the perimeter.

01

Measure

  1. Measure the clear ceiling plane and mark fixed obstructions.
  2. Choose a maximum planning spacing informed by beam data and mounting height.
  3. Set a wall offset that responds to the surfaces and tasks near the perimeter.
02

Read

  1. Rows and columns are fitted inside the perimeter, then redistributed evenly.
  2. The returned spacing may be smaller than the entered maximum.
  3. Each dot is a coordination point, not a confirmed cut location.
03

Verify

  1. Joists, ducts, pipes, insulation, sprinklers, fans, and ceiling systems
  2. Fixture spacing criteria, photometry, glare, and wall illumination
  3. IC, airtight, wet-location, fire, control, and local electrical requirements

The visible method

rows and columns are fitted inside the offset, then evenly redistributed

LimitAn even grid is a drafting aid, not a photometric result. Confirm joists, insulation rating, wet-location rating, controls, and wiring separately.

Results are computed from the fields you enter. Glow & Gauge does not infer a product, electricity rate, room reflectance, or professional approval.

Read the site-wide method

Starting references

01ENERGY STAR · Downlights key criteria
Planning boundary

No wiring, circuit load, structural, fire, emergency-lighting, damp/wet rating, or local code design is performed here. Verify the exact fixture and use appropriately qualified professionals.