I still remember the first time I added recessed lights. It was just a small update in my kitchen. Nothing big or expensive. But the change was huge. The room felt fresh and open. Clean lines. Soft light. No bulky fixtures hanging in the way. Just quiet, gentle glow from the ceiling. Friends walked in and stopped. “What did you do?” they asked. I smiled. “It’s just the lights.” That was ten years ago. Now I hear a question more often: Is recessed lighting out of style? It’s a good one. Trends change. Designs move. But some things hold strong. Let’s talk about that. You might be surprised by what still works—and why.
What Is Recessed Lighting, Anyway?
Before jumping into trends, let’s break it down. It means lights set into the ceiling. No hanging parts. Just a trim ring and a soft light source.
People also call them can lights or pot lights. They’re clean. Sleek. Hidden. Perfect for rooms where you want the ceiling to stay simple.
These lights shine down in a narrow or wide beam, depending on the bulb and trim. You can use them to highlight, brighten, or create a soft mood.
Are They Still Popular in 2025?
Let’s get straight to it. No, recessed lighting is not out of style. It’s everywhere. Kitchens. Bathrooms. Living rooms. Even walk-in closets.
Designers still love them. Builders install them in new homes. Homeowners choose them for makeovers. And why not? They check so many boxes:
- Space-saving
- Customizable
- Energy-efficient (with LED)
- Modern-looking
- Great for layering light
Sure, styles evolve. Today’s trims are slimmer. Lights are smarter. But the core idea? Still very much in style.
What’s Changed Over the Years?
Like fashion, lighting has trends. In the past, recessed lights were big. Five to six inches wide. Now? Smaller trims rule—often three or four inches.
Also, LED lights have taken over. They last longer, use less energy, and come in warmer tones. No more harsh blue glow.
Smart features are rising, too. You can dim your lights, change their color, and even control them with your phone. That wasn’t the case back in my first kitchen redo.
Trim styles have changed as well. Matte black, brushed gold, and even trimless looks are hot in modern homes. These updates give recessed lighting a fresh twist.
What Do Designers Say?
I follow a few trusted designers. Many still use recessed lighting—but not alone. They mix it with pendants, sconces, or floor lamps. Why? To layer the light.
Good lighting isn’t about one source. It’s about layers. Think overhead lights for general glow. Lamps for cozy corners. Accent lights to show off artwork.
It plays its part. It offers that base layer. A foundation of clean, even light. Then you build from there.
Designers also place them more carefully now. Fewer lights. Better angles. A more thoughtful layout. No more grids that feel like an airport runway.
Where Recessed Lighting Still Shines
Let’s talk rooms. Some spaces still love. And it’s not just about looks—it’s about function.
Kitchens
Cooking needs light. And not just one big light in the middle. It over counters, stoves, and sinks make prep safer and easier.
Bathrooms
You want soft, even light here. Recessed fixtures over vanities or showers do the trick without shadows. I always recommend choosing the best recessed lighting for bathroom setups to get that perfect glow.
Hallways and Closets
These spaces are narrow. Hanging fixtures can feel bulky. It fit neatly and stay out of the way.
Basements
Ceilings are often low. You don’t want a fixture hanging down. It save space and still shine bright.
My Personal Tips for Perfect Placement
Over the years, I’ve installed dozens of recessed lights. Here are a few lessons I’ve learned the hard way:
Don’t Overdo It
Less is more. Too many lights can make a room feel harsh. Space them well—usually 4 to 6 feet apart works for most rooms.
Use Dimmers
Always. Light needs change. Mornings, evenings, guests—it’s all different. A dimmer gives you control.
Mix Warm and Neutral
I like bulbs between 2700K and 3000K. Warm, but not yellow. Cozy, but still clear. This range feels like home.
Pick the Right Trim
Want a modern feel? Go for trimless or black trims. Classic home? Try white baffle trims for a soft look.
Think Like a Designer
Layer your light. Use recessed as the base. Add floor lamps, table lamps, even string lights if you like. Light isn’t just for seeing. It sets a mood.
The Downsides—Let’s Be Honest
No solution is perfect. Do have a few drawbacks.
- They can be costly to install if your ceiling isn’t already wired.
- Poor layout can create shadows or uneven lighting.
- Older homes might need extra insulation for safety.
But most of these problems come from poor planning—not the light itself. Work with a good electrician or lighting expert. Or do your homework (like reading this blog!).
What About the “Too Common” Argument?
I hear this sometimes: “They are everywhere. They’re boring.” That’s fair, kind of. But here’s my take.
Plain jeans are common, too. So is coffee. Or white walls. But we still love them. Why? Because they work.
isn’t about being flashy. It’s about function, flow, and comfort. And when done well, it can feel just as stylish as a designer chandelier.
Want to stand out? Mix it up. Add pendant lights. Use bold colors. Or go for smart recessed lights that change with your mood. You don’t need to ditch —just use it wisely.
What’s Replacing Recessed Lighting?
Track lighting is back in some modern homes. Linear LEDs are big in kitchens. Hanging lights and sculptural fixtures are hot in living rooms.
But guess what? These styles often live, not instead of them. Again, it’s about layering. A little of this. A little of that.
Think of like your favourite T-shirt. Other pieces come and go. But this one always fits in.
Final Thoughts
So, are recessed lights out of style? Not in my house. Not in most houses. They’ve changed. Grown. Evolved. But they’re still loved.
They’re like quiet helpers. Always there. Always useful. Never shouting for attention. And sometimes, that’s exactly what your home needs.
If you’re planning a remodel, don’t write them off. Use them smartly. Mix them with other lights. Keep the look clean. And most of all—make it yours.