Custom linear lighting · Recessed
Recessed linear lighting for grid, drywall and trimless ceilings
Clean slots of light set into the ceiling or wall, from T-bar grid fixtures to trimless details plastered in with the drywall.
Short answer
Recessed linear lighting sits inside the ceiling (or wall) so only the lens is visible. The key choice is the ceiling type: T-bar grid fixtures drop into the grid; drywall fixtures install through a cut-out with a flange or trim; trimless (plaster-in) fixtures are fixed before taping so the drywall finishes flush to the lens. Also check the plenum depth above the ceiling, access to drivers, and how runs turn corners.
Key takeaways
- Ceiling type decides the housing and the install sequence.
- Trimless details must be installed before drywall finishing; coordinate with the drywall trade.
- Confirm plenum depth and driver access before selecting a profile.
Ceiling types compared
| Ceiling | How it installs | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-bar grid | Drops into the grid (15/16 in or 9/16 in tee) | Offices, schools, healthcare corridors | Match grid module and tee size |
| Drywall, flanged | Through a cut-out; flange covers the edge | Renovations, lower cost | Visible trim line |
| Drywall, trimless | Mud-in flange fixed before taping | Premium interiors | Must be installed during drywall stage |
| Wall recessed | Into stud wall or millwork | Stairs, corridors, accent lines | Wall depth and fire separations |
Specification checklist
- Ceiling type and grid module (or cut-out for drywall)
- Plenum depth available above the ceiling
- Run lengths, corners and patterns
- Lumens per foot, CCT, CRI, lens (opal or microprismatic)
- Voltage (120, 277 or 347 V) and driver location (integral or remote)
- Dimming protocol and emergency requirements
- Damp or wet rating where needed
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Frequently asked questions
What is trimless recessed linear lighting?
A recessed fixture with a mud-in flange that is taped and finished with the drywall, so there is no visible trim; only the lens shows. It must be installed during framing and drywall, not after.
How is the driver accessed in a recessed linear fixture?
Either through the fixture opening (the driver is removable from below) or through a ceiling access panel when the driver is remote. Specify which, because it affects maintenance.
Can recessed linear lighting be used in wet areas?
Only products rated for damp or wet locations, as marked on the product. Check the rating on the cut sheet for each location.
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