How to Buy Close to Ceiling Lights
Close to ceiling lighs are a practical and stylish solution for illuminating spaces where ceiling height or available space may be limited. Installed close to the ceiling, flushmount fixtures provide general illumination without taking up the vertical space required by chandeliers or pendants. From bedrooms and hallways to kitchens, entryways, bathrooms, closets, and commercial spaces, use this guide to help choose the right flushmount lighting for your home or business.
- Choosing the Right Flushmount Size
The size of your flushmount should complement the dimensions of the room and provide adequate illumination without overwhelming the space. Smaller fixtures are ideal for compact areas such as closets, hallways, and smaller bedrooms, while larger flushmounts can create greater visual impact in living rooms, kitchens, entryways, and larger spaces.
As a general starting point, add the room's length and width in feet and use the combined number in inches as an approximate fixture diameter. For example, a 10-foot by 12-foot room totals 22 feet, making a fixture approximately 22 inches in diameter a good starting point.
- Flushmounts for Low Ceilings
Flushmount lighting is particularly well suited for rooms with standard or lower ceiling heights. Because the fixture sits directly against or very close to the ceiling, it helps maximize headroom while still providing attractive overhead lighting.
Always check the fixture's overall height or extension from the ceiling, especially when installing it in hallways, bedrooms, closets, or other areas where people will regularly walk underneath it.
- Flushmounts for Bedrooms
A flushmount can provide comfortable general lighting for a bedroom while maintaining an open and uncluttered appearance. Select a fixture that is proportional to the room and provides enough illumination for everyday activities.
For larger bedrooms, consider combining a flushmount with bedside lamps or wall sconces to create multiple layers of light and a more relaxing atmosphere.
- Flushmounts for Hallways and Entryways
Hallways and entryways are excellent locations for flushmount lighting because these spaces often require good overhead illumination without sacrificing ceiling clearance.
Long hallways may require more than one fixture to distribute light evenly. In entryways, a decorative flushmount can also provide an attractive focal point while maintaining an open feel.
- Flushmounts for Kitchens
Flushmount fixtures can provide useful general illumination in kitchens, breakfast areas, pantries, and other spaces where pendant or chandelier lighting may not be practical.
In larger kitchens, flushmounts can be combined with pendants, recessed lighting, and under-cabinet lighting to provide a balanced combination of general, task, and accent lighting.
- Flushmounts for Bathrooms
Flushmount lighting can provide effective overhead illumination in bathrooms, particularly when combined with wall sconces or vanity lighting.
When selecting a fixture for a bathroom or other area exposed to moisture, review its location rating to make sure it is suitable for the intended installation area.
- Flushmount vs. Semi-Flushmount
Flushmount fixtures are installed directly against or very close to the ceiling, making them an excellent choice when ceiling clearance is limited. Semi-flushmount fixtures extend farther down from the ceiling, creating more visual presence and allowing light to spread around the fixture.
If you have additional ceiling height but do not have enough space for a chandelier or pendant, a semi-flushmount may provide an attractive alternative.
- Selecting the Right Style and Finish
Flushmount lighting is available in styles ranging from clean and contemporary to traditional and decorative. Choose a fixture that complements your furniture, hardware, finishes, and other lighting throughout the room.
Satin brass can introduce warmth and elegance, while matte black provides a bold, modern appearance. Polished nickel and chrome offer a clean, sophisticated look, while bronze finishes can add warmth and traditional character.
Glass, alabaster, metal, fabric, and other materials can add texture and help transform a functional ceiling light into a decorative design feature.
- Consider Light Output
Because flushmounts are frequently used as a room's primary source of illumination, light output is an important consideration. Larger rooms may require fixtures with multiple bulbs or additional lighting sources to achieve the desired brightness.
Review the recommended bulb type, maximum wattage, number of bulbs, and dimming compatibility before purchasing. Using dimmable bulbs with a compatible dimmer can allow you to adjust the brightness for different activities and times of day. (Bulbs are not included unless otherwise specified. Only LED bulbs are recommended.)
- Measure Before You Buy
Before ordering a flushmount, measure the room dimensions, ceiling height, and available installation area. Review the fixture's diameter or width, overall height, canopy dimensions, bulb requirements, and weight.
Also consider nearby doors, cabinets, ceiling fans, and other fixtures to ensure there is adequate clearance. Taking accurate measurements before purchasing can help ensure your new lighting fits comfortably and looks properly proportioned.
- Find the Perfect Flushmount
The right flushmount can provide effective illumination while adding style without overwhelming your space. By considering room size, ceiling height, fixture dimensions, light output, finish, and overall design, you can select a flushmount that provides the perfect balance of function and style for your home or business.