Choosing the right light fixtures for your home is extremely important. A light fixture does not just illuminate your space. It adds style and character to each room creating the most wonderful and unique atmosphere. Ambient lighting provides general illumination of each room. It also enhances the sense of warmth and coziness making you feel great in your home.

Ceiling lighting is usually chosen by every homeowner. It is ideal for general lighting. Ceiling lighting can be installed in almost every room including living rooms, dining rooms, bathrooms, bedrooms, closets and hallways. Pendants, chandeliers, track lighting, flush mount and semi-flush mount fixtures are perfect for illuminating your home.

If you are still working at a lighting plan for your home, you may wonder which light fixture would work effectively for your space. There are two common types of light fixtures often selected by homeowners – flush mount and semi-flush mount. Let’s dig deeper to realize the difference between the two types to help you choose the right fixture for you.

What is Flush Mount Lighting?

Flush mount lighting is the type of lights that have little or no gap between the ceiling and the fixture. Flush mount fixtures are available in various shapes including circular, oval, square and even rectangular. You will easily find the fixture that complements the interior design of your room turning it into a comfortable and vibrant space. The vast majority of these ceiling lights come in minimalist designs. However, you still can find the fixtures in a more sophisticated style. These light fixtures look very attractive and inviting.

What is Semi-Flush Mount Lighting?

LAZZUR Escaut 3 Light 14 in. Satin Nickel Semi-Flush Mount Ceiling Light

Semi-flush mount lighting is very much like flush-mount lighting. However, there is always a gap between the ceiling and the fixture. The gap is just about several inches high. Semi-flush mount light fixtures are extremely popular among homeowners. These light fixtures will also enhance your interior design adding more style and character. A semi-flush mount light fixture can easily become a focal point of any room in your home attracting the attention of every guest you have.

Flush Mount and Semi-Flush Mount Light Styles and Materials

No doubt, a ceiling light fixture can change drastically the way your room looks and feels. The two types of light fixtures can be found in various styles including traditional, transitional and contemporary. Traditional style if often selected by homeowners who want to add an antique décor touch to their space. These light fixtures look quite simple and can work well for many interior design styles.

Transitional style has much in common with traditional style. However, transitional ceiling light fixtures have the elements of both traditional and contemporary styles. A large number of transitional light fixtures come in the form of a bowl. If you are looking for something modern and stylish, you can think about adding contemporary light fixtures to your space. These fixtures have an elegant look. They can freshen your room and improve its design.

Before purchasing a ceiling light fixture, you should also consider the type of material it is made of. In fact, there are different materials the light fixture, the shade and the other components can be made of. The most common materials include copper, stainless steel, chrome, crystal, plastic and wood.

Copper is one of the most popular materials. It is also very often used as a finish for both flush mount and semi-flush mount light fixtures. Copper is preferred for transitional and traditional lights. Stainless steel is another popular material used in a wide variety of transitional and modern light fixtures. Stainless steel creates a simple, but at the same time beautiful design. A lot of contemporary ceiling light fixtures are made of chrome. This material adds style and glamour to the fixtures making them a great choice for any room.

If you are looking for an opportunity to bring more romance to your space, consider crystal light fixtures that can turn any room into a truly wonderful place. Plastic materials create a simple look. If you need a durable and affordable material, plastic is definitely the one you should consider. Ceiling light fixtures made of wood will add a rustic touch to your home creating a warm and comfortable atmosphere.

Pros and Cons of Flush Mount Light Fixtures

LAZZUR Aude 2 Light 12 in. Satin Nickel Flush Mount Ceiling Light

Probably, one of the biggest advantages that flush mount light fixtures have is that they can be used in almost every room of your house, especially those rooms that require ambient lighting. If you do not want to spend too much time removing the dust from your lighting fixture, a flush mount fixture is exactly what you need. Due to the fact that this fixture is suspended close to the ceiling, it does not accumulate dust. This light fixture is also ideal for rooms with ceilings about 8 feet high.

There are also some cons you should be aware of. When it’s time to change the bulb, you will have to remove the whole light fixture. It’s not very convenient for some people. Plus, a flush mount light fixture is not a very good choice if you want the fixture to become a focal point of the room.

Pros and Cons of Semi Flush Mount Light Fixtures

Semi-flush mount fixtures are a great option for rooms with lower ceilings. You can find the fixtures with sophisticated ornaments that will definitely add more style to your room. This type of light fixtures is also a more convenient option when it comes to replacing the bulb. You will not have to remove the entire fixture to change the burnt out bulb. However, a semi-flush mount light fixture has to be cleaned more often because dust accumulates faster and becomes visible.

Flush Mount or Semi Flush Mount – How to Make a Choice

LAZZUR Gironde 3 Light 12 in. Matte Black Semi-Flush Mount Ceiling Light

Making a choice between a flush mount and a semi-flush mount light fixtures largely depends on the room you plan to hang it in and the style you prefer. A flush mount fixture is your ideal choice if you are looking for a minimal design that will not attract too much attention. It’s great for bathrooms, hallways and closets. Semi-flush mount will be definitely the right choice if you want the lighting fixture to be more noticeable. You will get more light from this fixture as well.

A new light fixture can make or break your room’s design. Introduce the light fixture that will illuminate your room effectively creating a vibrant atmosphere. Bring more light and beauty into your space.

If you’re ready to purchase light fixtures for your home, check out our article here on tips for lighting your bedroom.

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