When it comes to selecting lights during renovation, it means you’re almost at the finish line.
But with so many types and styles of lights available, how do you choose the one that won’t leave you regretting your decision? Beyond the quality and design of the product itself, the first thing to consider is the “ceiling height.”
What’s the Ceiling Height in Your Home?
According to the “Residential Design Standards,” the ideal ceiling height for a home is 10FT. This standard ensures comfort and safety. For townhouses, the ceiling height is usually around 3m, while for villas, it’s typically above 9FT but should not exceed 12FT.
When we talk about a height that allows people to move freely without feeling cramped, we’re actually referring to the “clear height.”
Clear Height = Ceiling Height - Floor Thickness
(The floor thickness of a standard apartment is usually 12-15cm). Based on the standard ceiling height of 10FT, the indoor clear height should be between 8-10FT to ensure comfortable movement. In other words, after installing the lights, the clear height should ideally remain above 8FT for a comfortable experience.
Why Measuring Ceiling Height is Crucial Before Choosing Lights
Before selecting lights, measuring the ceiling height is an essential step to ensure the chosen lights are proportionate to the space and achieve the best decorative and lighting effects. Consider two main aspects: the hanging method of the lights and the style and size of the lights.
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Higher Ceilings: Above 10FT
This is common in villas and townhouses, where the higher ceilings allow for larger and more elaborate lights.Recommendations:
- Choose large, ornate chandeliers to showcase the grandeur of the space.
- Add downlights or linear lights at 2.8m or 2.5m to enhance overall brightness.
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Chandelier Diameter:
- For rooms ≤10㎡, choose a diameter below 30cm.
- For rooms between 10-20㎡, opt for a diameter of 30-50cm.
- For rooms ≥20㎡, go for a diameter above 50cm.
- Ensure the chandelier is hung above 2.6m from the floor for a comfortable, non-oppressive feel.
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Lower Ceilings: Below 10FT
This is more common in standard residential apartments, requiring careful selection of lights for each area.Recommendations:
- Choose slim ceiling lights to minimize the impact on ceiling height.
- Opt for a “no-main-light” design combined with false ceilings to avoid the oppressive feeling of a main light.
- Add recessed light strips to create a visually extended space.
- Use slim, tall floor lamps or wall lamps for localized lighting.
For low ceilings, the “no-main-light” design should focus on minimalist, slim, and compact fixtures.
For example, the JCLGL Ultra-Thin Integrated Track Light can meet the lighting needs of an entire space. A 14mm thin track can be equipped with floodlights, spotlights, and grid lights to create versatile lighting effects.
Alternatively, the JCLGL Panel Light, with a 7.3mm narrow frame and a height of just 68.8mm, offers a sleek, minimalist look.
Additionally, rooms like bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and attics may have varying ceiling heights. Consider each space’s specifics when planning the lighting layout for the best illumination and decorative effects.
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