With the latest home designs featuring great, tall ceilings, it can be tough for those with standard or lower ceilings to get the same dramatic effect. Though 10- and 12-foot high ceilings are becoming more common, 8-foot ceilings are still prevalent and deserve great lighting design. And there are ways to capture the magic of taller rooms and create a high style with lower ceilings. Here are some common low ceiling lighting ideas to ensure your space is never short on style.
What is the Best Lighting for Low Ceilings?
Regarding low ceilings, the right lighting can make all the difference. Here are some tips to help you choose the best lighting for 8 foot ceilings.
Flush Mount & Semi-Flush Mount Fixtures
Flushmount and semi-flush mount fixtures can add drama and style to a standard height space while remaining functional. Modern flush mounts with clean lines offer a variety of looks for hallways, closets, and spare rooms. Some chandelier designs now come with a flush mount style within the same collection, allowing for statement-making drama in a more compact fixture. Just because a fixture needs to be functional does not mean it has to be unattractive.
Recessed Lighting
Recessed lighting is popular for standard-height ceilings as it blends in with the overall space. However, decorative recessed lighting can add drama and design without taking up headroom. With the advancements in LED technology, recessed lighting can now be installed in spaces where it was previously impossible. LED trims only require 2 to 3 inches of clearance and no housing, leaving plenty of room for high-quality, high-design lighting. While it may seem daunting, working with a professional can ensure you get the right type, size, and placement of recessed lighting for your space.
Pendants and Chandeliers
Pendant lighting for low ceilings is a type of suspended lighting that can work well, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
- Where Hanging?
A hanging fixture must be hung over a space where you cannot walk under. Use a dining table, bar or sink, kitchen island, coffee table, cocktail table, or even a bedside table if your ceiling is only 8 feet high.
- Scale
You should avoid using a tall or foyer-style fixture when you have an 8-foot ceiling. Instead, choose a compact or wider design that sits comfortably 26-30 inches above a work surface or dining table.
- Understand the height
You will need to do some homework before purchasing fixtures that use a download to verify the length will work in your place. Cord and chain-hung fixtures are usually the easiest to install because you can adjust the height during installation.
- Use Linear Lights
You can get the same look with long linear suspensions over a long table, or multiple smaller pendants hung above it for a more dramatic look. Chandeliers for low ceilings might not work well in dining rooms, however. Instead, look for pendants that have a longer linear suspension.
You can check out our wide collection of linear lights at LED Lights Direct.
Wall Lights
Wall sconces are an excellent option for lighting up your home. These lights are especially suitable for rooms with low ceilings, as they can direct upward and downward light. An ambiance is created by illuminating the middle layer of a space, such as a living room, dining room, or hallway. In addition to making the room appear larger, wall sconces can add elegance to your home decor. With various styles and designs available, you can choose a wall sconce that complements your unique style and taste. Whether you prefer a modern, industrial, or traditional feel, wall sconces can help you achieve the perfect look for your home. So go ahead and add some wall sconces to your home's lighting scheme and enjoy the warm and inviting atmosphere they create!
Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans can be functional and decorative and are often desired in bedrooms and living rooms. When selecting a fan for an 8-foot ceiling, it is important to measure it correctly to ensure proper installation and safety.
When it comes to ceiling fans for low ceilings, standard fans with downloads are not always suitable, so you should look for flush mount fans, also called hugger fans. Check the specifications for the overall installed height and the distance from the ceiling to the bottommost part of the fan body. A ceiling fan blade should have a clearance of at least 7 feet from the floor to comply with code requirements.
Accent Lights
Adding accent lamps to your space is an excellent way to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that can help you unwind after a long day. In addition to providing low-level lighting for the middle and lower layers of your bedroom, living room, or home office, accent lamps can also help to showcase your unique style and personality. Whether you prefer modern or traditional designs, there is an accent lamp out there that will perfectly complement your space. Some popular styles include sleek and minimalist designs, ornate and decorative lamps with intricate details, and rustic designs made from natural materials like wood, metal, or stone. With so many different options, you will surely find an accent lamp that matches your taste and preferences. Plus, by adding an accent lamp to your space, you can create the illusion of more space and make your room feel more open and airy. Another option to consider about lighting for low ceilings with beams is to install track lighting. This can be an effective way to provide targeted lighting while also highlighting the beams in your ceiling. So why wait? Start browsing today and find the perfect lighting solution to transform your space into a cozy and welcoming retreat.
Layered Approach
A well-lit room uses multiple light sources at different heights to create a welcoming atmosphere and eliminate dark corners without increasing bulbs' wattage. Using ambient lighting positioned slightly above standing and seated eye level can be especially effective in achieving this effect. Adding sconces or table lamps can be a great way to achieve this, according to designer Breegan Jane, who says they can add light without taking up ceiling space while enhancing the overall design.
Floor Lamps
Floor lamps, including those used as "uplighting", can provide overhead lighting in a room without requiring installation projects. This can be especially useful for low-ceilinged spaces like a vanity area, where a floor lamp with an upward-facing beam can create a heightened appearance that draws the eye upward and reflects off the ceiling.