3,654 Ceiling Lighting

Ceiling fixtures contribute ambient or task lighting in a fashionable way through a variety of styles and types. Whether you simply want to punch up the look of your dining room or add functional lighting to your kitchen island, a ceiling lighting fixture may be just the answer.

If you’re trying to track down the perfect ceiling fixture, take note of the following while on your search:

What size ceiling fixture should you consider? This depends on where you plan to place the fixture, but in general you want it to feel in proportion to your other room furnishings. Even if a chandelier is going to be the focal point, you don’t want it to overwhelm the space. In addition to the surrounding furnishings, you also want to take into account the size of the room and make sure the overall design of the room is balanced.

Where should you hang ceiling fixtures? Ceiling fixtures work best to highlight certain areas, such as a dining table, sitting area or entryway. You can either center one fixture over an area, or hang multiple to achieve additional light and an interesting look.

How high should you hang your fixtures? It’s best to hang fixtures at least seven feet above the floor, or at least 30 inches above a table. If you have low ceilings, a flush mounted fixture may be a better option than a pendant or chandelier.

What style works best for you? Try to find something that complements your décor and adds visual interest. Go jazzy and abstract with an Art Deco fixture featuring porcelain and patterned metalwork, or choose something with simple, plain lines such as a Mission Style fixture with warm, dark coloring.

What types of ceiling lighting is available? The range of options is plentiful. Here are a few options to consider:
Chandelier: Chandeliers are elegant and classic, a source of ambient light and will add a touch of glamour to any room.
Flush mount fixtures: Flush mount fixtures hang flat against the ceiling and come in various styles. They are a good solution for providing ambient light from low ceilings; however, it can be difficult to change bulbs in flush mounted fixtures.
Semi-flush mount lights: Hanging about 4 – 8” from the ceiling, these fixtures are a cross between flush mount fixtures and chandeliers and provide ambient light.
Pendant lights: These lights suspend from the ceiling and feature shades or globes to prevent glare from the bulb. For ambient light, choose a pendant light with the shade directing up, called an inverted pendant. For task lighting over a workspace or island, choose to have the shade pointing down, known as a downlight.
Island lights: With lights that hang at the end of a stem or rod, island lights are similar to pendant lights but may have two or three light sources vs. one, creating a larger pool of light.
Recessed lighting: Mounted in the ceiling and therefore flush with the ceiling, recessed lighting provides ambient light and can be effectively used throughout the home.
Track lighting: With a series of light affixed to a metal track, this type of task or accent lighting allows you to focus it wherever you’d prefer, be it the kitchen counter or as an art piece statement.


Start your search by checking out our stylish selection of lighting fixtures to find the perfect one to suit your ceiling.

Find ceiling lighting design ideas here.