Options for lighting a room with a suspended ceiling: spotlights, recessed and surface-mounted lamps, as well as their location on the suspended ceiling

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.

Rules for the location and installation of lamps in a suspended ceiling

This type of surface finish looks very beautiful if complemented by the proper placement of appliances. The lighting scheme is drawn up in advance, and during installation, holes are made in those places of the canvas where it is necessary. After stretching the ceiling material, it will be difficult to change the location and choose a different shape of lamps.

Rules for installing devices on a suspended ceiling:

The chandelier is located strictly in the middle of the canvas, regardless of the shape of the room. The lamp should be no closer than 30 cm from the canvas, and the shade should look down or to the side.
Spotlights, if they are the main source, must be in quantity: at the rate of at least one piece per 1 sq. m of canvas. The outermost row is installed 15-20 cm from the wall.
The symmetrical arrangement of devices is aligned with the far wall from the entrance to the room.
In the living room, it is recommended to first place the outermost row of appliances, then make a calculation based on the ceiling area.

Specially developed lighting standards will help you accurately calculate the required number of LED lamps per square meter. meter of canvas: bathroom and bedroom - 2 pcs., living room - 3 pcs., corridor and hallway 1 pc., children's room - 3-5 pcs.

The layout depends on the overall style of the room and the need for zoning the space. In living rooms they often use: “snake”, “circle”, “oval”, “arc” and “wave”. By arranging the lamps in any shape, you can achieve a unique design, and with the help of LED strip you can completely transform the interior.

The optimal choice of light bulbs for a stretch ceiling

The finishing material requires special attention to the choice of the type of luminous element, so experts recommend paying attention to models that heat up the least. Incandescent lamps, which are most often used in conventional chandeliers, are not suitable, so when choosing a lamp you need to pay attention to the light bulb that is installed in it and its power. It is recommended to install lighting fixtures with a power of 35-50 W next to the canvas; in this case, it is better to install one or two more elements than to change the material of the canvas after a few years.

Types of lamps that are used to illuminate suspended ceilings:

LED elements are the most popular and safe. The lamps emit a bright white or yellowish spectrum, which does not tire the eyes and consumes the least amount of electricity. At the same time, LED lamps do not heat surrounding objects and are fireproof. They are made in a wide variety of shapes - it can be a ball, an oval or a candle, as well as flat elements for spotlights.
Halogen bulbs emit a bright spectrum, which gives more light with a minimum number of fixtures in the room. Such an element does not heat up, but is inferior to the LED in power consumption and service life. Halogen light bulbs are manufactured both with a regular round base and in the form of plugs, which allows their use in miniature spotlights, which is often used to create light compositions on the ceiling.
Luminescent elements. They have good performance characteristics and are quite economical in energy consumption. They do not heat the air or surrounding objects, which is safe to use. The lamp makes it possible to accurately convey color when decorating a stretch ceiling and is easy to adjust the light flux, but is limited in shape.

Modern manufacturers provide a wide range of lighting equipment for home and office space. You can easily combine models with each other and create beautiful compositions in the design of a stretch ceiling, while all the elements are safe and will not spoil the canvas, but will only highlight its beauty.

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.

Types of luminous elements

When planning lighting design, methods of mounting lighting fixtures and their aesthetic properties are of particular importance. The colors, modifications, prices and quality available on the market allow you to choose the optimal solutions for each room.

Spotlights

These are lighting elements common for tensile structures, which are distinguished by their small diameter and directional beam of light.

Due to their compactness, such lamps can be used in almost any, even limited space: in a closet, pantry, under the stairs.

Invoices

Fixed lighting fixtures that protrude along the ceiling line but do not hang down are classified as overhead lighting fixtures. Their distinctive properties: ease of installation, variety of modifications and colors, low price.

Recessed lighting

Many manufacturers of suspended ceilings offer light boxes integrated into the design. They are frames with LED strip built into the canvas. This type of lighting is used in modern interiors.

Hanging chandeliers

Familiar ceiling chandeliers come in a variety of shapes and sizes and harmoniously complement both classic and new-fangled renovations.

A place is allocated for the chandelier in advance, because after installing the ceiling, it will no longer be possible to change its location.

When installing, take into account that the distance from the lamp to the tension structure is at least 30–60 cm.

LED types of lamps

Lighting fixtures with LEDs, due to their low heat transfer, are optimally suited for fabric and film materials. Lamps can be built-in or overhead, rotary or fixed. The only difference between them is the “filling”, consisting of several connected LEDs.

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.

Types of suspended ceilings with unusual lighting: ideas and options for different rooms

Unusual lighting emphasizes the interior of the room and creates a unified design style.

Children's

In rooms for small children, colorful ceilings with drawings or imitation of the sky look appropriate. For teenagers, motifs from their favorite films or books are suitable.

Living room

The hall is most often the largest room in a house or apartment. Therefore, experiments with levels or canvases with illuminated drawings look good. An interesting find is curtain lighting.

Bedroom

In a room intended for sleeping, lamps with adjustable light, as well as a canvas with a starry sky effect, look harmonious.

Bathroom

The bathroom and shower do not require a lot of light, so you can diversify the color of the lighting and focus on the mirror.

Corridor

A small corridor space is enlarged with the help of lighting along the contour of the ceiling.

Kitchen

The dining area, highlighted by light directed from hanging chandeliers or spots, and the cooking area highlighted by small lamps look unusual.

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 best brands of lamps

We have prepared a selection of brands of suspended ceiling lamps that are most highly rated by specialists and product users.

ARLIGHT

– the most positive reviews are about this Russian company, which has been producing a large range of LED products since 2005. Lighting products are manufactured using innovative technologies in accordance with modern design trends. Lamps combine quality, reliability, safety, and affordability. The manufacturer strictly complies with all Russian standards and technical regulations of the Customs Union.

PHILIPS

– products from the Dutch manufacturer (Signify brand) are distinguished by their operational reliability, energy efficiency, and increased light output. Stylish European design highlights the originality of the lighting fixtures.

GAUSS

is a German manufacturing company that produces LED lamps of various styles: minimalist, classic, high-tech, modern.

CITILUX

is a Danish brand specializing in the production of lighting products that create a “beautiful and comfortable life.” Prized for its light and elegant design in a typically Scandinavian style. The lamps have a high IP protection class, are not afraid of humidity, and can withstand significant temperature changes and vibration.

FERON

is a manufacturer from China that stands out from the crowd of competitors with excellent quality lamps at an inexpensive cost. The model range is represented by all popular types of lighting fixtures for suspended ceilings, which have a thoughtful and interesting design.

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.

Types of lamps

After we have figured out the influence of the ceiling itself on lighting and the requirements for lamps, it’s time to move on to the lamps themselves. There are many different types, but the most popular, of course, are chandeliers, so they will be first on the list.

Chandeliers

From the very beginning, it is worth dividing chandeliers into ceiling and pendant ones. Ceiling - those chandeliers that we have become accustomed to since the times of the USSR, their height cannot be adjusted, they hang directly under the ceiling. Most often, their location is the center of the room, and their task is to illuminate the entire space.

Such a chandelier is attached to a special platform between the suspended and main ceilings, so you should think about the location in advance, and only then begin installing the canvas.

The pendants are hung on a dowel or hook to the original ceiling, and the cut in the ceiling is hidden with a special cover. Most often it is sold as a set with a chandelier, but it can also be purchased separately in hardware stores.

The suspension is convenient because it hangs on a wire, which means its height can be adjusted. For example, if the pendant acts as the main lamp in the center of the room, it will be higher than if it acts as additional lighting above the dining area.

You can hang several pendants side by side; it is not advisable to do this with ceiling chandeliers - it will look too massive, the ceiling will visually become lower and heavier.

Spot lighting

Spot lights are small, flat, fist-sized lights that look nice and attract attention. They have a small angle of illumination, so they are used in groups. This is absolutely safe, since diode bulbs are most often hidden inside, which do not heat up at all.

Another advantage of LED lamps is their efficiency: they consume much less energy than incandescent lamps, and last much longer - this is how their high cost pays off.

Such lamps have several more advantages:

they are resistant to vibrations - they will not break or crack if an earthquake occurs, or the neighbor above decides to try out a new hammer drill on the floor;
easy to maintain - it is practically not required, since the area of the lamp is too small;
long service life - up to 4 years, then the light bulb is replaced.

There are two types of spotlights: movable and fixed. In mobile ones , you can direct a beam of light at a certain angle, but you will have to pay extra for such a function. Here it is worth considering whether you will really often change this direction of light, because to do this you will have to take a stool or stepladder, climb to the ceiling and adjust the lamp.

If there is not enough light, it is easier to buy an additional fixed spotlight and install it in the “dark” area.

Diode tape

Diode strip is a flexible plastic into which LED bulbs and resistors are inserted. Thanks to this device, the tape does not heat up at all, so it can be attached anywhere: even along a cornice with fabric curtains - there will be no fire. But most often the diode strip is placed around the perimeter of the room, at the bottom of the cabinet near the work area or at the junction of different types of ceilings, for example, plasterboard with tension.

However, it is not recommended to hang the tape in very damp rooms or near an open fire, as this will shorten the life of the lamp. But practice shows that this is an unnecessary precaution, since the diode strip is often located above the kitchen sink and work area. The service life is impressive - up to 15 years.

This is a budget option, since such a tape is inexpensive and consumes little energy. But it cannot be made the main method of lighting, since there will not be enough light with conventional placement options. Attaching this lamp is very easy - you only need double tape.

But there is one drawback that many people turn a blind eye to: if one light bulb goes out, you will have to change the entire strip, because the lamp cannot be replaced individually. But one light bulb does not greatly affect the degree of illumination, so this is more of an aesthetic problem.

Spot system

A spot system is a rod or rail on which several lamps are located. Such systems are very diverse, for example, a tire can move, bend, that is, it can be given different shapes , making the lighting convenient and unique.

The lamps themselves can be static, or they can move along a rod or rail. In addition, they can move left and right, changing the direction of their light.

Such lamps are suitable for both small and large kitchens. Only if on the first the spot system will play the role of the main lighting, then on the second it will most likely be additional light for the dining or work area.

There are stylistic restrictions. It is clear that a spot system is inappropriate in a classic kitchen, but in rooms in fashionable urban styles it will look very organic. For example, hi-tech, loft, minimalism, modern and so on.

LED lamps

LED lamps are not yet popular in our country, but their popularity should be increased. As the name implies, they are based on LED lamps (sometimes called LED lamps). A special feature is their appearance: most often it is a square or circle that completely glows. Sometimes they are called soft boxes.

The advantage is that the soft box gives a very beautiful and soft light , which makes the room more spacious. Most often, LED lamps are used as the main light source; if the room is small, then they are the only one.

Since they are based on LED lamps, their advantages can also be attributed to the soft box:

does not heat up;
consumes little electricity;
serves for a long time.

Due to the fact that the kitchen is a room with high humidity, you need to choose models with a 12-volt power supply and a transformer. The downside of such lamps is the cost. Some models can change the color and brightness of the light, which has an additional impact on the price.

Lamps for suspended ceilings - design options

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.

Popular lamp manufacturers

There are dozens of items on the packages of light bulbs. Products of certain brands differ in the technologies used in production and in cost.

According to the rating compiled at the beginning of 2022, the top 5 best brands included Philips, Osram, Gauss, Feron, Camelion. Lamps from these manufacturers are reliable, have a long warranty period, and a high price. There are many models.

The top 10 is completed by ASD, Navigator, Jazzway, Era and Kosmos. Their light bulbs are distinguished by low prices, long service life, and availability. However, marriage is more common among them than among the leaders of the rating.

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.

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.

Examples of interiors with illuminated ceilings

Since the advent of suspended ceiling structures and the growth of their popularity, new ideas and fashion trends in the design of the ceiling surface have begun to appear. When choosing a ceiling design with lighting, consider:

functional purpose of the room;
interior design style;
individual preferences.

Kitchens

A stretch ceiling with lighting in the kitchen allows you to highlight the work surface and dining area.

White suspended ceiling with lighting in the kitchen Source stroypomosh.com.ua

The predominantly light design is complemented by bright details in the form of decorative elements and furniture. A turquoise LED strip is installed along the perimeter of the stretch ceiling, and hanging lamps with metal shades are installed above the dining area.

Stretch ceiling lighting Source yellowhome.ru

In the presented version, a stretch ceiling with blue lighting serves as a separation between the living room and the kitchen. Against the background of a light kitchen set, blue lighting looks interesting. Also, an LED strip was installed under the cabinets, and spotlights were placed behind the upper cabinets, which illuminate the free part of the walls.

Black and white kitchen with white ceiling Source ok.ru

A strict kitchen set, made in black and white colors, can be complemented by an original arrangement of lighting fixtures. Spotlights were installed in the center of the matte stretch ceiling; along the perimeter there is an LED strip that fills the room with diffused blue light. The kitchen apron is illuminated by spotlights located under the upper cabinets.

Track lamps in the kitchen interior Source morepotolkov.com

A fashionable trend is the installation of suspended ceilings with track lamps. Such devices allow you to direct light to the desired area of the room. These types of lighting fixtures are suitable for interiors decorated in a modern style, such as scandi or loft.

Living room

Matte and satin canvases are suitable for classic living rooms. Thanks to the variety of colors, shapes and lighting fixtures, you can choose a ceiling design to suit any interior.

Multi-level ceiling in the living room Source mykaleidoscope.ru

Installing a multi-level structure with proper lighting allows you to increase the ceiling height by about 20 cm.

Not so long ago, metal, mirror, concrete, and wooden canvases became popular. Such unusual types of ceilings will suit a living room decorated in a modern style.

Stretch ceiling in the living room Source yellowhome.ru

The reflective surface increases the height of the ceiling and creates an extraordinary atmosphere in the room.

Light ceiling with combined lighting Source dizainexpert.ru

To decorate the ceiling in a small living room, you should use light-colored fabrics; lighting fixtures can be combined. In this case, spotlights were installed around the perimeter, and a massive chandelier was installed in the center of the ceiling.

Ceiling design in the living room Source roomester.ru

Unusual ceilings with various designs or patterns look interesting. This design suits a restrained interior decorated in neutral colors.

In the interior of the living room, straight or curved light lines on the ceiling will look interesting.

Delicate ceiling in a girl’s room Source imperia-yuta.by

This addition to the stretch ceiling will suit a restrained interior in a minimalist or high-tech style.

Spotlights in the interior: photo

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Selection rules

Features of a stretch ceiling lie in the materials used in its manufacture. An unsuccessful choice of light source can deform and ruin the canvas. Therefore, first of all, you should pay attention to the following requirements:

It is not recommended to choose a chandelier with a luminous flux directed upward, as this will cause the coating to begin to burn through. It would be best to install a closed model or structure with light falling down or in different directions.
It is advisable to give preference to pendant lamps that are located at a significant distance from the ceiling plane, which avoids heating the canvas. If you intend to use a plate chandelier, the product should not have a metal base.
For a glossy stretch ceiling, it is advisable to select devices that have hidden internal wiring, since exposed electrical wires will be reflected in the mirror surface.
The lamps in the lamp must have a power not exceeding 60 watts. The most acceptable option would be LED lamps, which are not subject to heating, have an increased level of brightness and do not strain the eyes. In addition, LEDs, unlike halogen and incandescent lamps, have a longer service life and save energy.
For a low stretch ceiling, you should select chandeliers that have a more laconic design and compact size.

The photo shows a chandelier on a two-level stretch ceiling in the living room interior.

Design ideas

The spider chandelier has an original design. This model is a modern trend. The design is made in black colors and is equipped with wires with light bulbs at the ends. The flexible structure of the lamp allows you to easily change the location and direction of the lamps.

A ring chandelier looks truly elegant. The product can be single-tiered, multi-tiered and cascading, and can also have rings of different diameters.

The photo shows the design of a modern living room with a matte stretch ceiling decorated with a spider chandelier.

A matte stretch ceiling in a spacious room will be favorably decorated with an impressively sized pyramidal chandelier. The glossy canvas will harmoniously combine with a lamp in the form of a hemisphere.

Using a decorative rosette will help highlight the lamp on the stretch fabric. Thanks to this round relief element, the classic lamp will take on a more complete and thoughtful look.

You can also decorate the area around the chandelier on a suspended ceiling using various patterns and ornaments, photo printing or unusual painting.

The photo shows a suspended ceiling with a chandelier decorated with a rosette in the interior of a hall in a classic style.