Choosing lighting for a stretch ceiling
When starting to design, it is important to determine the current lamp. With proper organization of lighting, the comfort of the room will increase. You need to choose based on the decorative parameters of the room and the amount of natural light.
There are 3 types of chandeliers on the market, which differ in the type of attachment to the ceiling:
- Hanging;
- Built-in;
- Ceiling-mounted.
Suspended ones are attached directly to the ceiling using a hook and a strip. The fixation is reliable, durable, fastening elements are not visible. The disadvantage of the system is that the chandelier is mounted to the bar with screws on top of the canvas. This leads to two disadvantages:
- The fabric may tear due to tension and uneven openings;
- Using incandescent or halogen lamps may cause the plastic to melt.
Hanging chandeliers are rarely used in residential premises, but are popular in cafes, restaurants, and bars. They give a large amount of light and cover huge areas.
Embedded systems are almost invisible, as they merge with the panel. A base is mounted on the ceiling in advance. After installing the ceiling, a hole is made in the fabric. A lamp with special springs is inserted into it. They straighten and tightly fix the body. Additionally, a decorative overlay is placed on top.
Visually, the light source completely merges with the surface. It looks laconic, no screws are used. Suitable for residential buildings, they allow you to zone a room. Spots are mounted in a group so that the light flux is larger. Often equipped with a fluorescent flux regulator.
The invoices got their name due to the specifics of the fastening. They are literally superimposed on the fabric. The type of fastening is similar to the previous type. They do not spoil the design of the room.
They can have a rotating (it is possible to manually adjust the direction of the light) and a non-rotating design.
What you need to know first
The material used in the manufacture of stretch ceilings is very sensitive to heat. If the lamp shade is located too close to it, then during operation the canvas may become deformed and darken. Therefore, make sure that the chandelier bulbs are located at a sufficient distance so as not to heat the surface of the product above 60 degrees.
The choice of product must be made before stretching the fabric. In this case, installers will be able to correctly prepare the base for them and cut holes in the right places.
If you plan to use halogen or LED lamps, their power supplies cannot be located in the enclosed space between the ceiling tile and the tension covering. In conditions of insufficient ventilation, they will regularly overheat and fail faster. And due to their inaccessibility, it is quite problematic to replace them.
The ideal place to install these elements is a ventilation niche. The wiring can be easily carried out in a corrugation, securing it to the ceiling slab. After all, many people simply dream of buying a crystal chandelier.
For a glossy finish, it is better to choose lamps with light-diffusing shades. The fact is that the gloss on the surface strongly reflects light, and if the lamps of the chandelier are open, discomfort will be created in the room.
Matte ceilings provide ample opportunities when choosing lighting. Their texture evenly diffuses directional light, making the atmosphere in the room warm and calm. But they have one drawback - you will not be able to focus the light in a specific place.
Recommendations for lighting design
Everyone can decide for themselves where to place the lighting fixture. In this case, it is better to follow a few basic rules.
You can always add a light accent to a room to significantly improve comfort. For example, you can emphasize a work area, a play area, or a place to relax. If you like to read books, you can organize a reading area for yourself. A spotlight can autonomously change the light power in a specific area.
Additionally, you need to remember that:
- The lamps are placed at a distance of at least 30 centimeters, since a smaller gap will worsen the dispersion;
- The distance from the walls should be at least 20 cm.
- On average, a spotlight can illuminate 2 square spaces, but, depending on the power of the lamp, the indicator may float;
- With a large ceiling area, it is possible to combine different types of lamps into groups, which is useful in one-room apartments and studios.
Recessed luminaires for suspended ceilings must be LED. Their heating temperature is low. Halogen or incandescent bulbs increase temperatures and melt the fabric. This may damage the panel and the device. According to the requirements of the PUE, the control unit must be located in a place with free air exhaust to prevent overheating of the microcircuits.
Popular luminaire layouts
There are many options for lighting design, but it is not possible to name the most optimal location of ceiling lights. This is due to the fact that it is necessary to take into account many factors, from the area of the room to the location of the windows. You should also decide whether spotlights will be used as additional lighting (together with hanging chandeliers) or main lighting.
If possible, it is better to consult with a lighting designer about the placement of lamps. For those who decide to deal with this issue on their own, we can offer several standard options for placing ceiling lamps.
Figure 1. The most common schemes for additional lighting to the central chandelier
Such design options not only contribute to the uniform distribution of lighting over the entire area, but also, if necessary, allow for bright illumination of work areas.
Spots can also act as the main lighting fixtures; in this case, it is important to distribute them in such a way that they not only look beautiful, but also fulfill their intended purpose, fitting into the interior design.
Lamps with G5.3 socket
On sale you can find lamps with a base of this format, both halogen and spot. Popular due to its moderate cost and ease of replacement. Previously, there were halogens that had a defect in the additional diffuser, which distributed light under the stretched film. As a result, one could see all the imperfections of the ceiling, unevenness, communications stretched under the canvas. Modern models do not have this drawback.
One of the most significant drawbacks in suspended ceilings is the deep fit inside the panel, which seems to be the main reason for poor dispersion. Since the light comes out at a right angle and the lighting is too harsh. Spots of this type are often used in children's rooms and corridors.
Which color to choose
The choice of color depends almost entirely on the preferences of the owner of the room, but there are several rules that are also important to take into account when choosing.
If a white lamp will look expressive in almost any room, then a colored chandelier, chosen incorrectly, can disrupt the harmony of the environment. Therefore, it is important to use lighting fixtures whose color “echoes” the surrounding interior.
When searching for a chandelier for a suspended ceiling, you can rely on the following observations from designers:
- The body and lampshades of white shades bring lightness to the room, the light emanating from them adds solemnity and elegance to the interior.
White chandelier for stretch ceiling
- Delicate sand, beige colors and champagne shades will give a yellowish light - warm, cozy and conducive to relaxation.
Beige chandelier in a classic interior
- Red color attracts attention, so it is not recommended to use it in bedrooms and living rooms. It is more suitable for rooms where energy and activity are required from a person.
Designer red chandelier in the kitchen interior
- Green lampshades will be good for work areas: study, office, meeting rooms. The positive impact of this color on business activity was appreciated at the beginning of the last century - lamps with shades painted green were very popular in banks, bureaus, and agencies.
Green chandelier for stretch ceiling
- Brown. Evoking associations with natural wood, this color is considered cozy. Brown lamps will look harmonious in interiors designed in country, Provence, African, Japanese or rustic styles.
Chandeliers with brown shades
- Black. A black chandelier is suitable only for an original interior; against the backdrop of an ordinary setting, it will look alien.
Black chandelier in a modern interior
GX53 sockets
The main difference from the previous type is the protrusion above the plane by 4-5 millimeters. For this reason, the light comes out at a maximum wide angle of 180 degrees.
The base connector has virtually no disadvantages. LED and energy-saving lamps for suspended ceilings are produced under it. Less common are halogen light bulbs and fluorescent ones.
The concept of choosing the right stylish lamp
When selecting a lighting device, even at the stage of visual assessment, it is important to take into account the intensity and level of light distribution.
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An important role when choosing a chandelier is played by the selection of lamps for this light source; several types can be selected for different lampshades:
Incandescent lamps, characterized by accessibility and low cost, their important characteristic is heating during operation and warming up the surrounding air; they can be used in chandeliers with horns pointing downwards.
Energy-saving lamps, during the lighting process they practically do not heat up and help save energy resources, providing enough light to illuminate large and small rooms.
LED lamps are characterized by such parameters as high operating efficiency and low heating level; when operating, they create a directed and uniform flow of light, but require the installation of a power supply.
Halogen lamps, when directed upwards, it is necessary to provide sufficient distance from the ceiling to the lighting element; the distance will depend on the power of the light bulb and the design of the pendant chandelier itself.Advice from experts on choosing a lighting device requires taking into account the entire range of parameters, which will help you make the right choice.
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For dark ceilings and light-colored film, it is necessary to carefully select the material and color of the chandelier; its design and stylistic design play an important role.
Base G9
This type is in the middle in terms of efficiency and comfort. The protrusion of the bulb is much stronger, which contributes to a powerful luminescent spread. All types of lamps are developed for this format. Suitable for industrial premises, studios, workshops, photo studios, since the beam covers the entire room.
Features of the material
Stretch ceiling refers to suspended structures. It can be made with any number of levels, any color, photo prints and other goodies. What do buyers need to know before deciding to order a ceiling and install it?
pros
- Smooth and even surface.
- No wet processes. There is no need to plaster, putty, level the ceiling, etc.
- The material does not require decorative coating. She's quite beautiful now. And if you really want to make it better, you can use photo printing.
- It is easy to hide all communications from electrical cables to the exhaust duct behind a suspended ceiling.
- It is washable. What you can't do with paper wallpaper. Throughout the year, large amounts of dust, pathogenic bacteria and viruses accumulate on ceilings and walls. Thanks to PVC film, all this wealth can be washed off with a simple soap solution.
- Durability of the coating.
- Strong enough to withstand flooding from above. All you need to do is drain the water through a pinhole or chandelier.
- Large selection of colors, prints and textures.
- You can cover not only the stream, but also the walls.
Minuses
- Unlike drywall, if damaged, the entire sheet will have to be replaced. You will not be able to repair the part.
- Built-in components are necessary for the installation of suspended structures, such as sliding or flexible curtain rods. In other words, you won't be able to change the movement of the curtains. All you have to do is remove the fabric and transfer the sitting strap.
- Not every lamp fits PVC film. There are restrictions on the power of lighting devices. It turns out that instead of two powerful light bulbs you need to buy five.
- Low-quality manufacturers may offer material that releases harmful substances.
To buy or not to buy? Each material has its own characteristics. Therefore, if the above disadvantages are not relevant for you, close your eyes to them and enjoy all the goodness inherent in stretch ceilings.
Review of manufacturers
There are many brands on the lighting market, whose products you can find in stores. Those who want to save money and use equipment for a long time can buy products from the following manufacturers.
Ecola. Lighting engineers emphasize the capabilities and value of this brand. The Chinese manufacturer has many positive reviews about its products. All models are equipped with a moisture protection system and are easy to install. Having top-segment qualities, they are inexpensive. Only environmentally friendly materials are used in production. The catalog contains models for any base, including table lamps. They have low heat generation, a body made of impact-resistant plastic that is not prone to temporary changes. Does not oxidize in air, does not turn black when overheated and does not emit toxic substances into the atmosphere.
Philips. A Dutch brand that focuses on practicality and minimalism. It is protected from moisture and is resistant to power surges. The Philips stretch ceiling lamp is undemanding during installation and will fit any interval between the ceiling and the film. The entire catalog has European certification and is allowed for sale by PUE and SNiP. The catalog includes flat spots and lamps with remote control. They belong to the moderately expensive segment.
Citilux. Danish manufacturer creating innovations in the lighting equipment segment. Ceiling lights for suspended ceilings "Citylux" are resistant to vibration, moisture, and mechanical damage. The products are available and have European certification. Does not require constant maintenance, easy to install. Experts are in demand for their price and environmental friendliness. Top models are equipped with flood protection. Even if there is a flood from above, there will be no short circuit inside the light bulb.
What size should the chandelier be?
When looking for a new lamp, you need to pay attention not only to its design, but also to its size. The dimensions of the device must correspond to the area of the room. A small chandelier will simply get lost in a spacious room, while an overly large one will attract unnecessary attention, “putting pressure” on the people in it.
A skillfully selected lamp will harmoniously fit into the environment, creating high-quality lighting and without attracting unnecessary attention.
The dimensions of the chandelier must correspond to the size of the room
A few recommendations to help you choose beautiful and safe chandeliers for a stretch ceiling:
- The height of the lighting fixture (from the mounting point to the lowest point) should not exceed a quarter of the height of the room in which it is planned to be installed. You should not take into account the height of the walls, but the distance from the floor to the level of the tension fabric. For example, if this distance is 260 cm, then the value divided by 4 is 65 cm, this is the maximum possible height of the lamp.
The height of the chandelier should not exceed 1/4 of the ceiling height
- The diameter of the lighting fixture must also correspond to the parameters of the room. To calculate the optimal size, you can use the following formula: the diameter of the entire product (body, lampshades or horns) should be no more than a third of the distance between the two nearest walls. Example: If in a rectangular room the distance between the walls is 4.5 and 6 m, then the distance between the two closest ones will be 450 cm. Dividing this value by 3, you get 150 cm - it is not recommended to install lamps with a larger diameter in the room. In a square room, calculate the value between any two opposite walls.
The diameter of the ceiling should not be more than 1/3 of the width of the ceiling
Photo examples
It is worth giving a few examples to complete the picture. Below are descriptions with photo examples showing possible solutions for the home. Among them there will be both standard schemes and original compositions.
For kitchens
The kitchen is the brightest room in the apartment. It is impossible to cook food in the twilight, so you need to provide a powerful luminous flux. It is better to zone the room: a separate place for cooking and dining. The “I” and “K” systems are common.
The second option is suitable for large areas. One line of instruments runs through the center, and additional lines of light diverge from it. This way you can flood the entire room with light.
It is important that the work area is well lit. Lamps in the kitchen can be positioned in an L shape, focusing on the cutting table. In large rooms, a chandelier is often installed above the dining area to distribute light evenly.
For the hall
The main room in the apartment should have cozy lighting, which will be pleasant to be in. The classic option is the main lighting in the form of a chandelier and auxiliary lighting. The design of suspended ceilings with spotlights and chandeliers is common due to its simplicity and efficiency. In such a room it will be pleasant to watch TV, read, communicate with family and friends.
Lamps in the living room can be placed randomly or according to your design. The uneven distribution of light allows for zoning, creating separate areas for rest and work. The scheme is common in studio apartments, where there is a lot of space.
For the bedroom
The bedroom is a place to relax. Therefore, lighting should be moderate and soft. Using classic systems of LED spotlights for suspended ceilings of type E (8 points) or H (11 points), harmonious lighting is obtained. It is advisable to supplement it with a dimmer to adjust the light. Smooth controls will allow you to adjust the mode for reading, sleeping, relaxing or watching TV.
The organization of lighting requires harmony with the interior design. The bedroom is the most furnished room, so the light will take on the palette of the overall atmosphere.
For children's room
The children's room is a multifunctional room, which is characterized by a clear zoning into a play area, a place for study and sleep. It is advisable to install powerful spots above the table that can provide the required amount of light. To avoid damaging your eyesight, you can install an additional table lamp.
A place to sleep does not need strong lighting, so a sconce will do. This element will create a warm relaxing atmosphere. It can be used as a night light or for reading before bed.
It is not advisable to install a hanging chandelier, as a child may break it while playing. The spot system will completely eliminate any need for a chandelier.
For the hallway
There is no need to install performance lighting in the corridor, so there is no need for a central chandelier. Houses and apartments with low ceilings will not allow you to turn around, which will make you feel cramped.
A convenient way to organize it would be to install spotlights along the perimeter walls. In a narrow corridor, it is better to install one line of lighting fixtures along the entire length. The small space will be well lit, and you will not feel discomfort. On multi-level ceilings it is possible to create a beautiful composition of dots.
For bathroom
In panel houses, the bathroom is small, so there are not many algorithms for lighting equipment. The classical organization of light is considered to be the “B” system. It is possible to install sconces near the mirror.
In spacious rooms you can give free rein to your imagination. For example, several lines of spots are often installed. Zoning emphasizes the breadth of the room, visually increasing its area.
In what interior style is ceiling lighting used?
The choice of design options for a stretch ceiling with lighting is huge, but such an unusual decor is not suitable for every stylistic direction. For example, in a classic or ethnic interior, LED lighting will be inappropriate.
A stretch ceiling with lighting will go well with modern styles, such as:
- high tech;
- minimalism;
- loft;
- futurism.
Modern stylistic trends support the idea of preserving free space; they lack unnecessary furniture and decorative elements. The interior, decorated in restrained colors without bright accents, can be complemented by original lighting on the ceiling. The lighting will favorably emphasize the simplicity of the interior and fill the room with a mysterious atmosphere. Fixtures can illuminate walls, creating a beautiful light pattern or design.
Stretch ceiling in a high-tech interior Source masterpotolok.com
In such interiors, lighting will emphasize the modernity and high-tech nature of the room. If there is a need and an irresistible desire to complement a classic interior with a stretch ceiling with lighting, you should give preference to more restrained shades and simple options for placing LEDs.
The lighting can be adapted to any style direction. It is important to take into account the characteristic features of a particular design. A white stretch ceiling with lighting around the perimeter will suit almost any interior; in this case, an LED strip is used to increase illumination.
Stretch ceiling with lighting in a Scandinavian style kitchen Source yellowhome.ru
In the interior of a predominantly white Scandinavian kitchen, a suspended ceiling with lighting looks harmonious; it does not stand out against the general background, and LEDs are a source of additional light. During daylight hours, the lighting on the ceiling is invisible, and with the onset of darkness the room takes on a more modern and stylish look.
Ceiling lighting in a black and white living room Source realty.mail.ru
The black and white interior in the minimalist style was complemented by a multi-level design with lighting. Spotlights directed at the walls create an unusual pattern, and LEDs emphasize the modernity of the stylistic direction.
Spotlights in the interior: photo
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