What are flush mount lights?
Types of flush mounts
Flush mount light styles
Why choose flush mounts?
When to use flush mount lights?
What size flush mount light?
Bulb types
Material and design
Indoor and outdoor
Checklist
Quick buying tips
What are Flush Mount Lights?
Flush mount lights, also known as batten lights or close to ceiling lights, are lighting options that are mounted onto a ceiling with little or no space in between. These lights were initially designed in an oyster or glass shaped dome and have since undergone design transformations. Often used as decorative solutions flush mount lighting also serve a functional purpose while bringing a sense of style. They are versatile and subtle lighting solutions that suit spaces with low ceilings where hanging lights are not suitable. When you’ve read through our guide here, we invite you to visit our flush mount lighting product category to see our large selection of lighting options!
Types of Flush Mounts
Flush mount
- This type is installed directly onto the ceiling with no space between the light fixture and the ceiling.
- Very similar to flush mounts but they are installed with a slight space between the fixture and the ceiling. They feature a ceiling rose or canopy with the shade, often incorporated into the ceiling rose in a decorative way.
- These are semi-flush lights that have a ceiling rose or canopy with the ability to provide directional lighting with its angled lampholder. They are similar to spotlights.
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Flush mount
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Semi-flush
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Directional
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Flush Mount Lighting Styles
Traditional
- This style has a more classic and vintage look, often featuring brass and iron colour tones with opal or frosted glass shades. Traditional style flush mounts can fit in a wide range of décor styles, not just traditionally inspired themes.
- A merger of both traditional and contemporary, this style sees more experimentation and a wider variety of designs. Be it a retro or Hampton style interior, these lights can bring a subtle or dramatic touch to suit the style of your space.
Contemporary
- This style covers simple designs to suit modern decor and have a minimalist flair. It is a subtle design style that represents an ever-changing form. Contemporary styled flush mounts are often unobtrusive in design and seamlessly complement a rooms theme or design.
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Traditional
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Transitional
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Contemporary
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Why Choose Flush Mounts?
Not every space can use hanging lights. This is where flush mount lights present an appealing and convenient alternative. As these lighting fixtures have little to no hanging space, they are subtle and effective, especially in small bathrooms, apartments or low-ceiling venues.
When to Use Flush Mount Lights?
Consider the space you are lighting. Flush mount lights suit areas with little hanging room or where an extra light source is needed aside from hanging lights. If you live in an apartment, limited space means limited room for big pendants or chandeliers. While a small flush mount light is ideal for a limited space, for narrow and long hallways two or more evenly spaced fixtures can produce an even distribution of light.
Regardless of where they are mounted, flush mount lights only provide general lighting Although recessed lights are a popular overhead lighting option, they offer a clean and contemporary look that may not suit your traditional décor. Close to ceiling lights are a suitable alternative as they come in a variety of styles and finishes. Recessed lights are also not a viable option for exposed ceilings made from concrete and where there’s little ceiling space to accommodate its fixture. Instead flush mounts and semi-flush mounts are an ideal alternative for overhead lighting.
What Size Flush Mount Light is Right for Your Space?
To determine the size, always measure your space and your light fixture. A flush mount ceiling light does not hang low, but its shade may drop lower or vary in width depending on the design. To keep your room looking proportional and balanced, measure out the space and ensure your light is centrally placed in the room. Typically, flush mount lights work best for ceilings that are less than the average height of 2.4 metres. If you are placing close to ceiling lights near doorways, such as an entryway, make sure there is enough clearance for your door to open without obstruction.
If you are looking to make a statement with a flush mount chandelier, ensure it is proportionate with the width and height of the room. When placed over a dinner table, it’s the dimensions of the table that must be considered. For more on dining room lighting, read our guide to dining room lighting.
Bulb Types
Once you have decided on the flush mount you want installed, start thinking about the light bulb to put in the light. This comes down to the purpose of the light fixture; is it general lighting or mood lighting? Or is it providing lighting to a specific area? Considering the variety of sizes and styles of flush ceiling lights, care must be taken in selecting bulbs. If a bulb is visible in the case of an open shade, take into account the size and style of the bulb and how it would affect aesthetics. For closed shades or covers ensure your bulb can fit into the fixture. To find out more about light bulbs, check out our Light Bulb Buying Guide to help you decide.
Material and Design
As ceiling mounted light fittings are designed with a wide variety of materials, consider how this impacts illumination. Frosted glass and fabric diffuse light producing a mellow ambience ideal for bedrooms. Clear glass fixtures or open shades that expose the bulb may prove too bright mounted over a bed.
Design can also impact scale. A shade with a complex design may appear larger than its actual size requiring a smaller size to produce a more balanced outcome. Furthermore, flush mount lights may take very different appearances in your space when lit and unlit. Ensure that both looks are to your liking.
Indoor and Outdoor
Not only are flush mounts great lighting solutions, but some can be used both indoors and outdoors. Look for ceiling lights with an Ingress Protection (IP). A higher IP rating means the light can be used for balconies, front porches or even bathrooms. Always consult a qualified electrician to ensure that the light is safe to place where you choose.
For more ideas and inspiration for your space, peruse our flush mount lights collection.
Flush Mount Buying Checklist
Quick Buying Tips
- Measure your space and light to ensure it sits proportionately within the room
- Flush mounts are ideal when placed centrally or lined in a row; experiment with placements by drawing up a lighting plan
- Choose a suitable light bulb that suits both your space and fixture. Remember, low kelvins and wattage create a warm and mellow atmosphere and higher kelvins and wattage give brighter and cooler illumination
- Flush mounts are perfect alternatives for lower ceilings, where hanging lights are unsuitable