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How many downlights does a kitchen need?

A kitchen typically benefits from 6–10 downlights, positioned over the bench, island, sink and pantry to provide bright, even task lighting. Kitchens need more light than most rooms because of the detail-oriented tasks performed there.

How far apart should downlights be spaced?

A general rule of thumb is to space downlights approximately 1.5–2 metres apart for even coverage, depending on ceiling height and the wattage of the fittings. Hallways often need a light every 2–2.5 metres. Exact spacing should be confirmed with your builder's electrical selector.

Should downlights go directly above a bed?

It's generally advisable to avoid placing a downlight directly above the bedhead, as it can create glare when lying down. Positioning downlights around the perimeter of the room, paired with bedside lamps, tends to be more comfortable.

Do bathrooms need special downlights?

Bathrooms require IP-rated (weatherproof) fittings in zones near water, such as above showers. Your builder's electrician will advise on the correct rating for each position. This is a compliance requirement, not an optional upgrade.

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Lighting, Electrical & Power

How Many Downlights Does Each Room Need?

General guidance on downlight quantities for every room — because too few leaves a room dim, and too many adds unnecessary cost.

5 min read·Compare My Build — Independent Resource· Updated July 2026

Cost estimates only: Any building or upgrade figures in this guide are indicative, not fixed prices or quotes. Costs and inclusions vary by project, supplier, location and time. Confirm current written prices and specifications directly with your builder, suppliers and relevant trades.

Key Takeaways

Downlight quantities depend on room size, ceiling height and how the room is used.
Kitchens and living areas typically need the most; hallways are spaced evenly along the length.
A common rule of thumb is spacing downlights 1.5–2 metres apart for even coverage.
Bathrooms require IP-rated fittings in zones near water — a compliance requirement.
Too few downlights leaves a room dim; too many adds unnecessary cost.

General Guidance by Room

The number of downlights a room needs depends on its size, ceiling height, the wattage of the fittings and how the room is used. The following is general guidance — not a fixed specification. Your builder's electrical selector will confirm the right quantity and positioning for your floor plan.

Downlight Quantity Guidance by Room

Room	Suggested	Notes
Kitchen	6–10	Over bench, island, sink, pantry — bright, even task lighting
Living	6–8	Spread across seating and media zones; consider dimmers
Hallway	Every 2–2.5m	Spaced evenly along the length for consistent coverage
Bedrooms	4–6	Avoid over the bedhead; pair with bedside lamps and dimmers
Bathrooms	2–4	Over vanity, shower and toilet zones; consider IP-rated fittings
Garage	2–4	Even coverage; consider a separate workshop circuit
Outdoor / Alfresco	3–6	Weatherproof fittings over alfresco, entry and paths

General guidance only. Actual quantities depend on room size, ceiling height and fitting specification. Confirm with your builder's electrical selector.

Kitchen

Kitchens need bright, even task lighting over benches, the island, the sink and the pantry. Six to ten downlights is a common range, depending on the kitchen's size. Positioning matters as much as quantity — lights should sit over the work surfaces, not just the floor area.

Living Areas

Living rooms benefit from six to eight downlights spread across seating and media zones. Dimmers are worth considering here, as they allow the room to transition from bright to ambient. Avoid placing lights where they will create glare on a television screen.

Hallways

Hallways are typically spaced evenly along their length, with a downlight roughly every 2–2.5 metres. This provides consistent coverage without bright spots and dark gaps.

Bedrooms

Bedrooms generally suit four to six downlights. It's advisable to avoid placing a fitting directly above the bedhead, as it can create glare when lying down. Pairing ceiling lights with bedside lamps and a dimmer creates a more comfortable environment.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms typically need two to four downlights over the vanity, shower and toilet zones. Fittings near water must be IP-rated (weatherproof) — this is a compliance requirement, not an optional upgrade. Your builder's electrician will advise on the correct rating for each position.

Garage and Outdoor Areas

Garages benefit from two to four downlights for even coverage, with a separate circuit worth considering if a workshop area is planned. Outdoor and alfresco areas need weatherproof fittings — typically three to six — positioned over the alfresco, entry and paths.

Tip

A common rule of thumb for spacing is 1.5–2 metres between downlights for even coverage, depending on ceiling height and fitting wattage. This is a starting point, not a rule — your builder's electrical selector will fine-tune positions for your specific floor plan.

Downlights vs Batten Lights

Not sure whether to upgrade from batten holders? Read the comparison first.

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Frequently Asked Questions

All guidance is general and intended to help buyers prepare for the electrical appointment. Actual quantities depend on room size, ceiling height and fitting specification. Costs vary between builders, regions and specifications. Always confirm with your builder.