Downlighters are ceiling fittings of tubular shape alloy containing reflector bulbs or spotlights to produce pools of light on the table and floor against a dark ceiling background. They can be mounted as close- ceiling fittings but there are also versions for sinking flush with the ceiling and some are semi-recessed. The flush version, and to a lesser extent the semi-recessed version require a deep void above the ceiling.
These fittings are also mounted flush with the ceiling but instead of producing pools of light on the horizontal plane, produce them on walls as part of a lighting scheme. Colour lamps and coloured walls produce the required effect. Read the rest of this entry »
Of more unusual interest is a rise and fall pendant enabling the height of the light, suspended by the -sheathed flex, to be adjusted as required. One application is in the dining room over the dining table. As the light unit is raised the flex winds into the rise and fall unit in the ceiling plate. Matching fixed-height pendants are also available. The rise and fall principle is a development of the old rise and fall pendant operated with a system of pulleys and ballast weights. Read the rest of this entry »
Although the primary purpose of a lighting fitting is to provide light, a fitting is exposed to view throughout the hours of daylight and it is, therefore, equally important that it is pleasing to look at when not alight. Before buying a fitting decide whether you would prefer a ceiling fitting or wall lights. If you decide on a ceiling fitting choose between a pendant or a close- mounted ceiling fitting.
Also, decide on the position of the fitting as this will also affect the choice. When choosing in the shop or department store try and visualise how a fitting would appear in your home. This is not easy when the shop has a forest of fittings, some alight and others unlit. Read the rest of this entry »
