As recessed lighting becomes popular, a greater variety of recessed lighting trim styles and designs are also introduced by manufacturers to cater to different needs. Some of these are functional. Such as the standard baffle which incorporates the baffle functionality with the trim. Others are decorative and stylish. But how do you select the recessed lighting trim that complements the interior style and function you’re going for? And what are your options?
To help you with this, let’s take a look at some of the common recessed lighting trims available.
Baffled Recessed Light Trim
Baffles are basically used to redirect bright light in a particular direction and slightly lessen the intensity of the lighting. When merged with the trim, the baffled recessed lighting trim essentially looks like ribbed interior rings. You will find concentric circular grooves inside the cones that hold the lamp. Since it is great for creating a soothing architectural atmosphere without glare, many home dwellers tend to prefer this over the other designs, making it one of the most popular choices. It is also used in commercial offices.
Eyeball Gimbal Ring
If you need a focused, precise light beam effect for highlighting your art display, signboard or a specific part of your building, the eyeball gimbal ring may be your choice. Equipped with an adjustable swivel, you can easily adapt the light to where it’s needed. Sometimes, this type of trim may also be used for task lighting. For example, a reading light effect over your bed is something you can achieve with this. If you’re planning for this function, remember to choose a lamp with a very tight beam so that you will not disturb your partner sleeping beside you.
Reflector / Multiplier Lighting Trim
Such trims contain an interior reflector surface that optimizes the lighting while hiding the source. Multipliers are commonly used to manage the light flow of A-style bulbs and fluorescents. Best suited for task or general lighting functions, as they tend to give off more light. Also, if the recessed light is the only source of lighting in the room, this may be a suitable option as well.
Decorative Recessed Lighting Trim
As the name suggests, such trims are clearly for aesthetic purposes. Different decorative designs, ranging from colorful glowing art glass to contemporary stylish finishes, are available to suit all kinds of interior settings. Believe it or not, but one such trim can transform your seemingly unintrusive fixture into a beautiful chandelier. If you prefer not to draw any attention to the recessed lighting fixture, going for trims that match your ceiling’s color and texture is a wiser choice.
Lens / Louvred Trim
Lens / Louvered recessed lighting trim diffuses the light, making it soft and soothing. Awesome for space that looks good in a gentle douse of light, and it’s common to find such trims used in showers or even closets. The lens also has the added function of protecting the lamp and hence is commonly used for lights in wet areas such as bathrooms.
Wass Wash / Pinhole Trim
Both the wall wash and pinhole recessed lighting trim has a small partial opening where light is allowed through. The main difference between the two is that the latter doesn’t have any spillover effect.
The light beam from the wall wash trim tends to be asymmetrical and hence great for getting rid of the common “scalloped light effect”. This type of trim is commonly used to accent vertical areas such as the wall, fireplace, and drapes with light. Some people also use this to highlight art displays, even though the effect is not as precise as the eyeball gimbal ring trim.
