Described are various embodiments of a method and apparatus for outlining recessed installation of a component within a surface material. In one embodiment, the apparatus generally comprises two or more template or alignment modules adjacently disposable against the surface material and each comprising opposed edges that can be aligned with adjacently disposed edges so to define a substantially continuous spacing along these adjacently disposed edges. This spacing is generally dimensioned so to accommodate a corresponding component dimension such that, the aligned edges guide removal of surface material along the spacing to accommodate recessed installation of the component within the surface material.