Find the best light fixtures for your home
The best light fixtures provide functional and pleasant ambient light to a room. They also brighten your space and give it a warm glow. Surprisingly, lighting is an afterthought for many homeowners. It’s only after it has been done correctly that its usefulness and aesthetic value are realised.
Lighting fixtures can be used as a statement piece or with other matching pieces. But how do you find the best lighting fixtures that suit your space? With many options available on the market, choosing the perfect lighting can be challenging. You’ll have to sift through hundreds of options to find the right style.
Fortunately, we're here to help. Whether you're renovating or simply want to replace your boring lighting fixture, this guide will help you select the perfect unit for your home.
Types of lighting fixtures
There are a few different types of lighting fixtures available on the market. Your choice will largely depend on the application and available space.
Ceiling lights
These lighting fixtures are often used for general lighting. They are best suited for lower ceilings. The main advantage of ceiling lighting is that it provides light that can be distributed evenly.
Wall lights
Wall-mounted light fixtures come in different shapes and styles. They are often used in numerous applications. For example, they can be used in path lighting in circular spaces, lighting for reading in the bedroom or living room, and general lighting.
Hanging lights
These light fixtures are ideal for general lighting or task lighting. As the name suggests, they are ideal for rooms with high ceilings. They can also be used as statement-makers for reception areas in large buildings. A good example of hanging lights is a pendant light.
Downlights
Often recessed into the ceiling, downlights direct a light beam down to where you need it. You can also find surface-mounted models. These lights are usually installed in multiples and can be used for general lighting or accent lighting.
What material should you choose for your light fixture?
Choosing the right material for your light fixture is very important. With trends changing and tastes developing, selecting timeless lighting for your space is crucial. Below, we look at the materials you can choose for your lighting fixtures.
Glass
Perhaps one of the best and most common materials for lighting fixtures, glass underscores luxury. You can find glass lighting fixtures in forms, including transparent or opaque, smooth or textures, and clear or colored. In addition, glass is easy to clean and emits a beautiful, diffused glow.
Aluminium
Great for indoor and outdoor light fixtures, aluminium is lightweight, resistant to rust, and easy to finish with a paint or powder coat. It is also a good conductor of heat, making it a great choice for drawing heat away from your LED lights and keeping the fixture at a manageable temperature. This attribute also makes it a great choice for high-output lighting fixtures.
Acrylic
Acrylic doesn’t get the praise it deserves because it’s an inexpensive material. However, it’s important to note that acrylic is one of the best materials for lighting fixtures. It is durable and lightweight, making it a much better light diffuser than glass. Its delicate softness and moldable traits make it one of the best light fixture materials for most homes. In addition, acrylic is more resistant to scratches.
Crystal
A timeless classic, crystal lighting fixtures never go out of style. They are versatile as they can be used in traditional, modern, retro-style settings. You will always find a way to make this material work in your home. While we still stand with the above statement that crystal works well in any space, the truth is that its natural sparkle that instantly elevates the look of a room makes it the perfect choice for entertainment areas. Crystal also provides excellent illumination by reflecting light. This explains why crystal chandeliers are common in dining areas.
Styling tips for lighting fixtures
There are endless ways to illuminate a space. However, you must know how to mix and match the different fixtures to give your dining room or living room a complete look. Here are a few styling tips to keep in mind.
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You can make a lighting fixture your focal point. This can be a unique lamp or chandelier. Lighting can also be used to draw attention to a statement-making piece such as an artwork or fireplace mantel.
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When selecting lighting fixtures for an open-concept dining and living room, ensure the light should work well together. They don't necessarily need to be the same. You can choose lighting that shares a common element and use them in both rooms.
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You can mix at least two finishes but no more than four. However, this can be pretty challenging to get right if you're new to lighting. Before buying, make sure you get some inspiration from magazines or visit a lighting showroom and try to move around the actual fixtures to see how they look.
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Colour: White chandelier
Material: Crystal chandelier