A ceiling light gives general lighting without hanging into the room, ideal under a low ceiling. Choose it by floor area, diameter and light source.
Choosing the size and light output
To estimate the diameter, add the length and width of the room in metres, then multiply by 8: the result is a rough guide in centimetres. A 4 × 5 m room therefore calls for a ceiling light of about 70 cm, and a 3 × 3.5 m bedroom for a model of about 50 cm.
Light output is measured in lumens: 100 to 150 lumens per m² in a living room or bedroom, 200 to 300 lumens per m² in a kitchen or bathroom. For a 10 m² kitchen, aim for 2,000 to 3,000 lumens, shared if needed between the ceiling light and spotlights.
Integrated LED or bulbs, materials and styles
An integrated LED ceiling light is often flatter, which is an advantage under a low ceiling; a model with bulbs (E27, E14, G9 or GU10) lets you choose the colour temperature and is easy to repair. Our LED ceiling lights bring together the models with a built-in light source. To dim the light, check that the fitting, the bulbs and the dimmer are compatible.
Metal leads the way, in chrome, gold brass, white or black, often paired with glass or acrylic to diffuse the light. Crystal adds sparkle, as it refracts light more than glass does. Modern lines sit alongside classic, vintage and retro, rustic, Art Deco and industrial designs. Discover our designer ceiling lights and crystal ceiling lights.
A ceiling light for every room
- Living room and bedroom: warm white at 2,700 K and a dimmable output to adjust the mood.
- Kitchen and hallway: warm white at 3,000 K; several adjustable heads, as on a ceiling spotlight fitting, light specific areas.
- Bathroom: outside the BS 7671 zones, IP44 is recommended; suitable models are shown among our bathroom ceiling lights.
Frequently asked questions about ceiling lights
Which ceiling light is best for a low ceiling?
Under a ceiling lower than 2.50 m, choose a flat or low-profile ceiling light rather than a pendant: it keeps the walkway clear, which needs at least 2 m beneath the fitting. An opal diffuser or integrated LED spreads the light without glare. Our guide to lighting small spaces adds further advice.
How many lights should a ceiling light have?
The number of lights matters less than the total output. Add up the lumens of the bulbs and compare them with what the room needs: 100 to 150 lumens per m² in a living room or bedroom. A 12 m² bedroom needs only 1,200 to 1,800 lumens, whereas a 30 m² living room calls for 3,000 to 4,500.
How do I replace an existing ceiling light?
Switch off the circuit at the consumer unit, not just at the light switch, then check that there is no voltage. Make sure the ceiling fixing can take the weight of the new fitting and that the connector block fits inside the base. Connect the live, neutral and earth wires according to the instructions; if in doubt, call a qualified electrician.
What colour temperature should I choose for an integrated LED ceiling light?
With integrated LED, the colour temperature is fixed when you buy: check it on the product page. Warm white, up to 3,000 K, suits the living room, bedroom, kitchen and hallway; neutral white, around 4,000 K, suits a study or worktop. Also aim for a CRI of at least 80.
