What are spotlights?
Where to use spotlights?
Types of spotlights
Spotlight buying checklist
Quick buying tips
What are Spotlights?
Spotlights are lighting fixtures that produce a directional cone or cylindrical light. Residential or commercial spotlight designs stem from lights used for stage or theatre productions. They follow a similar purpose and function by providing directional illumination and can include one or more spotlight heads per fixture.
These fixtures have a narrow beam with light concentrated at the centre which creates a spotlight. A very narrow beam will produce a brighter light that reaches a longer distance but focuses on a smaller area. Alternatively, a wider beam will illuminate a larger area but with dispersed light of less intensity. Some spotlight designs have been adapted to meet changing needs and even come with the added advantage of an adjustable beam angle. So, it’s important to choose a spotlight that meets your requirement.
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Where to Use Spotlights?
Spotlights make great accent lighting (lighting focusing on a particular area) as they can be used to highlight certain features like artwork, menu boards, retail merchandise or even feature walls in and around the home. Some spotlights come with an Ingress Protection (IP) rating, making them suitable for outdoor use. Below are some ideas on where to use spotlights. Follow this link to view our range of Outdoor Spotlights.
Low ceiling kitchens
Smaller spaces, like low ceiling kitchens can’t use hanging lights. Spotlights make a great alternative, especially with their directional function and the small area they use for installation.
They are subtle lighting solutions and can have multiple lights on the one fixture, meaning you can have the right amount of illumination in the kitchen.
Outdoor entertaining spaces
Many spotlights can be installed outside, making them perfect for use in entertaining spaces. Use outdoor spotlights to illuminate a BBQ cooking area, highlight a patio feature wall, or provide light to a balcony.
Outdoor lighting comes with IP ratings that is a measure of their ability to withstand exposure to the elements. Make sure your spotlight is suitable for use in the location you have in mind, and always consult an electrician for the placement of outdoor spotlights.
Extra security
Spotlights are also ideal for extra security around the home as they produce a directional cone or cylindrical beam of light.
They bring an added level of convenience when used as welcome lights at night, in a side passage or with the functionality of a sensor to turn on when needed most.
Entryways
Entryways to the home or business need ample lighting and spotlights can provide just that. The front and back entrances can be easily illuminated with spotlights on a porch.
You can also use multi-directional or up/down pillar spotlights to subtly provide decorative light to these areas.
Types of Spotlights
Ceiling mounted
Similar to a close-to-ceiling light, these are installed onto the ceiling with little to no room between the fixture and the ceiling. They are subtle and can provide some out-of-the-way directional lighting.
Wall mounted
Much like a wall light except for function and purpose. These are attached to a wall with a mounting plate and used to illuminate an area. This type of spotlight takes a step away from traditional wall mounted lights with the inception of multi-directional light beams and design.
Up/down and pillar
Typically, these types of spotlights are cylindrical or rectangular in shape and have a light source at the top and bottom of the fixture. They are usually mounted on to the wall and are often used to highlight front entrances, pillars or feature walls.
Track
This type consists of multiple light fixtures attached in a row to a track with a system of joiners that sit flush against the ceiling. Usually these are adjustable and can therefore be moved around.
Multi-light
Either wall or ceiling mounted, this type has multiple light sources attached to the one mounting plate or ceiling rose. They are useful for extra light direction or highlighting multiple areas in different directions.
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Ceiling mounted |
Wall mounted | Up/down and pillar | Track light | Multi light |
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We also stock a selection of Indoor Spotlights perfect for any home.
Spotlight Buying Checklist
Quick Buying Tips
- Depending on the type of spotlight, check the light projection from its track or wall to ensure it suits your purpose
- Spotlights don’t always include the bulb. Make sure the fixture is compatible with a bulb that meets your requirement
- If a spotlight is fitted with a bulb check if its wattage and colour temperature is right for your purpose or space
- If you need multi-directional light look for spotlights with tilt or swivel action
- Up/down spotlights are often used outdoors, on home facades and pillars. Ensure its beam angle meets your requirement or suits your space.