If you have ever found yourself in over your head trying to pick the best ceiling lights for your home, you are in good company! Here is your ultimate guide to choosing ceiling lights!
Choosing lighting can feel like an overwhelming decision because of the endless options. There are many styles, sizes and price ranges to choose from.
Should I get what is trendy? What metals should I pick? Can I choose the more affordable option and still have it look high quality? Are the types of questions that pop into our heads creating decision fatigue!
We’re going to chat all about ceiling lights in this ultimate guide. Let’s get to it!
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Types Of Ceiling Light Fixtures
There are many different types of ceiling lights to choose from. Here’s a break down of the options!
Chandelier Ceiling Lights
Chandeliers act as a statement piece in a space. They are great to hang in an entryway (especially with tall ceilings), bedrooms and/or over a dining room table. Chandelier ceiling lights provide a lot of additional light as it offers more than one light source.
TIP: When hanging a chandelier over a dining table, consider choosing something that elongates the eye.
Flush And Semi-Flush Mount Ceiling Lights
Flush and semi-flush mount ceiling lights are similar in that they are hung close to the ceiling. When comparing the two, flush mount lights are hung right up to the ceiling whereas semi-flush mount lights hang a few inches below the ceiling. These types of ceiling lights are great for hallways, bedrooms, bathrooms and closets.
TIP: At this point, most of us have heard the news that boob lights are no longer (or were they ever?) the best choice for a space! #cannotunseeit
Pendant Ceiling Lights
Similar to chandelier lights, pendant lights hang down from the ceiling. The difference is that pendant lights have a singular source or light. Pendant lights look great hung in groups of 2 or 3 over an island or dining table. They are also a good choice over sinks and in bedrooms!
Track Ceiling Lights
Track lights are a nice option when you are trying to highlight something or you are in need of task lighting. This type of lighting has an “outdated” reputation but using it in the right way can actually modernize your living space!
Ceiling Light Materials
When thinking about picking ceiling lights for your home, try to make everything complimentary. A great way to do this is to have an overall idea of how you want your space to feel.
Mix the styles of your light fixtures while sticking with the same metal finish if you are wanting to achieve a polished overall look.
Mix your metals if you prefer for your lighting to make more of a statement. Stick to two (max 3) different finishes throughout your home to provide interest without giving up cohesion.
Types Of Metals For Lighting
- Bronze
- Brass
- Chrome
- Nickel (satin or polished)
- Black
How To Pick The Right Ceiling Lights
Let’s talk about two common questions when it comes to picking the right light fixtures. Should my lighting be trendy? How much should I spend to achieve my desired overall look?
Considering Trends When Purchasing Ceiling Lights
The best way to ensure YOU love your home is to pick finishes that YOU love. If you love a trendy light, get the trendy light! If you prefer something more timeless, get the timeless light.
One thing to keep in mind is that certain fixtures will date the overall look of your home (do I need to say boob light again?). Consider what is in style without leaning too far away from your style.
Don’t be afraid to take your time picking out the best ceiling lights for your home. As much as they can be easily switched, the wait is worth it for fixtures you love!
Your Budget For Ceiling Lights
There are many affordable light fixtures to choose from. If you’re wondering when to save or splurge, I would consider this main thing: what is your budget?
Would saving on light fixtures help you better maintain your budget? Or are you able to accomodate splurging on a light fixture you absolutely love?
We are sticking to a tight budget for this flip project which means we have been spending extra time shopping for nice looking lights at affordable prices.
That being said, I would consider splurging on a ceiling light if I really loved it for a specific space (and there wasn’t anything like it at a lower price) – especially if it’s for our home and we are going to enjoy it for years to come!
How about you? Do you think it is worth it to save or splurge on lighting? I’d love to hear your opinion in the comments below!
FINAL TIPS:
- Choose 3000k for the perfect warm (but still bright) light!
- Make sure to confirm that your ceiling light meets the requirements of the the electrical safety authority if you are trying to meet code. Some of the more inexpensive lights will not pass safety. Just something to keep in mind. Use this list and check if your lights are certified.
Here’s to having the best ceiling lights around!
