Lighting Layout Calculator

The Lighting Layout Calculator tells you exactly how many light fixtures a room needs and how to space them for even, well-lit coverage. Enter your room length, width, and ceiling height, then select a layout pattern, target illumination level, lumens per fixture, and spacing factor to get the recommended number of fixtures, fixture spacing, total lumens required, and actual lumens per square foot.

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Results

Fixtures Needed

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Total Lumens Required

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Fixture Spacing

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Actual Lumens/sq ft

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Room Area

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I determine the right lumens per square foot for my space?

For general living areas, use 20-30 lumens per sq ft. Task areas like kitchens or offices need 30-50 lumens per sq ft. Ambient lighting requires only 10-20 lumens per sq ft.

What is the optimal spacing factor for recessed lights?

A spacing factor of 1.5 is standard for most applications, providing balanced coverage. Use 1.0 for uniform lighting in critical areas, or 2.0 for cost-effective general illumination.

How does ceiling height affect lighting layout?

Higher ceilings require more powerful fixtures or closer spacing. For every foot above 10 feet, consider increasing lumens per fixture by 10-15% to maintain adequate ground-level illumination.

Should I use grid or linear layout for my room?

Grid layout provides the most uniform coverage and is recommended for most rooms. Linear rows work well for long, narrow spaces. Perimeter lighting is ideal for accent or ambient applications.

How do I calculate fixture spacing for irregular room shapes?

For irregular rooms, divide the space into rectangular sections and calculate each separately. Focus on maintaining consistent spacing ratios and avoiding dark spots in corners or alcoves.

What's the difference between lumens and foot candles?

Lumens measure total light output from a source, while foot candles measure illumination at a surface. One foot candle equals one lumen per square foot at the surface being measured.

Can I mix different wattage fixtures in the same layout?

Yes, but maintain consistent spacing and adjust for different light outputs. Higher wattage fixtures can be spaced further apart, while lower wattage fixtures need closer spacing for uniform coverage.