Flush-Mount and Semi-Flush-Mount Buying Guide

Flush-mount lights are simple fixtures to light your home. If you find yourself craving a little more oomph, try a semi-flush-mount light.

Flush-Mount Lighting
A flush-mount light is typically a dome-shaped light fixture that is mounted flush to the ceiling. A semi-flush-mount light is more decorative, and the base of the light extends just below the ceiling. Style-wise, semi-flush-mount lights can mimic pendant lights, except they don’t hang as low.

Flush-Mount/Semi-Flush-Mount Lighting Size
The size flush-mount or semi-flush-mount light that you need depends on the size of your space. The average flush-mount light is 13 inches wide, but they range from 12 inches to 24 inches wide. Semi-flush-mount lights can range from 6.25 inches to 23 inches wide.

Flush-Mount/Semi-Flush-Mount Light Styles and Finishes
Shades – Flush-mount and semi-flush-mount lights have shades in glass or fabric. A glass dome shade is typically used in the hallway, closet or foyer. Try one with metal filigree or wood paneling for extra flair. This type works well in a bedroom, dining room or living room. Popular flush-mount and semi-flush-mount light shades include:
• Frosted glass
• Etched glass
• Ribbed glass
• Alabaster glass
• Tea-stained glass
• Tiffany glass
• Linen
 

Finishes

Flush-mount and semi-flush-mount lights come in a number of finishes to work with your décor. Take a cue from the existing finishes in your home. If the door handles and cabinet hardware are all in brushed nickel, choose lighting fixtures in a complementary finish. Popular flush-mount and semi-flush-mount light finishes include:
• Brushed nickel
• Satin nickel
• Oil-rubbed bronze
• Antique bronze
• White

Light Bulbs
 

Don’t forget light bulbs. Things like color temperature, lumens and wattage all play a factor in your room’s quality of light. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) and compact fluorescents (CFLs) help lower energy costs. Both have a lower wattage but provide the same light output as higher wattage incandescent bulbs. LEDs are also cool to the touch. In general, look for a warm white color temperature for living rooms and bedrooms, a bright white color temperature for kitchens and workspaces, and a daylight color temperature for reading nooks and studies.