Soffits wash walls and provide general lighting in rooms with low ceilings. Soffits can be used for direct lighting over a counter or a table in many work areas. Recessed soffits can be installed between joists that run parallel to the wall. The top of a valance can be aligned with the tops of windows and doors. Home Office with architectural luminaires.
Coves fit well in rooms with high or vaulted ceilings and above kitchen cabinets.
For best results the top of a cove should be at least 18 inches from the ceiling and its base at least 6 feet 8 inches from the floor. In kitchens, install the cove right atop the cabinet, although the clearance often will be only 12 inches. Kitchen with cove luminaire above the cabinets with a valance luminaire over the sink and under cabinet lighting Baffles, Louvers, and Diffusers Architectural luminaires can often be left open above and below the shielding board. Baffles, louvers, and diffusers can eliminate most direct views of the lamps from normal viewing positions and landings overlooking the room. Baffles are parallel blades that come in different sizes, finishes, and blade heights, and spacings.