Lutron’s latest iteration of its acclaimed architectural downlight, D2 features Ketra quality in a “barely there” 2-inch aperture—a feat of engineering that delivers the same light quality of previous Ketra generations in a strikingly smaller format. Although more discreet than ever, D2 provides the power and ambiance of Ketra without sacrificing versatility and quality—and it expertly pairs with Lutron’s Palladiom system of automated windowcoverings.
In conversation with Business of Home, Cecilia Ramos, senior director of architectural markets at Lutron, explores the technological impact and aesthetic possibilities of the new Ketra D2 recessed downlight.
What was the starting point for this collection?
In 2018, Ketra, the world’s most dynamic light source, was acquired by Lutron, the world’s leader in lighting controls and shades. Now working together, we’re pairing transformational light with world-class controls and shades for the ultimate leap forward in lighting personalization—seamless control of daylight and electric light. The new Ketra D2 2-inch downlight offers unparalleled quality of light that is flexible and adjustable.
Ketra’s dynamic lighting spectrum allows for Natural Light, an advanced tuning capability that replicates and extends the feeling of natural light indoors. This clever solution gently shifts color temperature and intensity throughout the day to help people feel more connected to nature when working, living and entertaining indoors. The same technical feature also enables Natural Dimming, Ketra’s unique capability to dim smoothly, without flickering—mimicking the color quality of incandescent light and candlelight. In fact, Ketra can produce 16.7 million colors with pinpoint precision, offering an unrivaled range of white, saturated colors and pastels, as well as the capacity to create any atmosphere desired, whether cozy and intimate, bright and lively, or colorful and dynamic.
How does the collection build on or complement your other offerings?
The Ketra D2 recessed downlight works seamlessly with Lutron’s premium lighting controls and window shades to create powerful and smart spaces, providing one-of-a-kind lighting solutions. The fixture is also wirelessly controlled, saving time and money and reducing the space needed for panels.
How do you envision designers using this collection?
Breakthrough optics and a smaller aperture allow the D2 fixture to practically disappear into the ceiling, placing the focus where it should be—on the illuminated surroundings. Its ultra-slim, “barely there” housings are ideal for maximizing ceiling heights and minimizing clutter. D2 opens new possibilities for designers and those who deliver innovative lighting experiences to homeowners to shape residential spaces and create atmospheres with the highest quality of light
Can the collection be customized? What kind of options are possible?
Representing Lutron’s most flexible offering to date, D2 enables increased design freedom and installation options. Wireless control allows for flexible placement and eliminates intrusive wiring—ideal for modern renovations or custom builds. Interchangeable lenses and trims customize the beam spread and aesthetic respectively, perfectly complementing any versatile design. D2 is available in flanged, flangeless mud-in, and millwork trims in chic options from black and white to metal finishes. What’s more, for the first time, Lutron is offering two different housing-size options: 2 inches and 3.5 inches.
How do you feel this collection pushes the brand forward?
Lutron’s Ketra D2 downlight ushers in an exciting new chapter, making Ketra, the world’s most advanced light source, available in a smaller form factor than ever—a 2-inch aperture downlight. Lutron has long sought to harmoniously bring the outdoors inside, blending natural and electric light seamlessly while accentuating the beauty of interiors, from fabric colors and textures to artworks, even flattering the skin tones and features of those enjoying the space. This launch speaks to one of our main principles, to “innovate with a high standard of quality,” and to the belief that light is an essential element of design. Lutron is leading the way in showing the potential of light to not only transform a space but influence how you feel in it.
What about the collection feels fresh and exciting?
With the launch of Ketra D2, users can now experience dynamic lighting that adapts to various moments throughout the day and sets the desired ambiance, creating layers of light that add dimension and drama that accentuate ceiling designs. It’s a sophisticated and sleek alternative to bulkier fixtures, while still providing significant power and peak performance.
What’s the inspiration behind the new collection?
As the market continues to shift toward “quiet ceilings” featuring increasingly discreet recessed fixtures, D2 represents one of the most versatile and advanced architectural lighting solutions ever, offering consistently reliable performance in an impressively compact package. The integration of advanced materials and technology in ceiling design can completely transform a room—and often it starts with the right lighting. D2 was designed to be more than just a downlight: With its smaller scale and astonishing technology, it’s a design tool that creates unique yet cohesive spaces.
