Buying guide

Flush, semi-flush or hanging: choosing a ceiling light by ceiling height

Under 8 ft (2.4 m), choose a flush mount. From 8 to 9 ft (2.4-2.7 m), a semi-flush mount works. Above 9 ft (2.7 m), or over a table, a pendant or chandelier fits.

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Flush mount ceiling light
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Short answer

Under 8 ft (2.4 m), choose a flush mount. From 8 to 9 ft (2.4-2.7 m), a semi-flush mount works. Above 9 ft (2.7 m), or over a table where nobody walks underneath, a pendant or chandelier fits.

On this page
Ceiling height Best fit Why
Under 8 ft (2.4 m) Flush mount Sits right against the ceiling; many of ours are only 2-3" (5-8 cm) deep
8-9 ft (2.4-2.7 m) Semi-flush mount Drops a few inches for a more decorative look while keeping headroom
Over 9 ft (2.7 m) Pendant or chandelier Hangs on a chain, cord or rod; keep at least 7 ft (2.1 m) clear underneath in walkways
Over a table or island Pendant or chandelier at any ceiling height Nobody walks underneath, so hang it 30-36" (75-90 cm) above the surface
01

What size flush mount should I choose?

A common guide is the same as for chandeliers: add the room's length and width in feet for a diameter in inches. Our most common flush mount widths are 12", 16" and 19.5" (30, 40 and 50 cm). Small rooms and hallways suit 12", bedrooms 16", and living rooms 19.5" or larger.

02

Do flush mounts need bulbs?

About two-thirds of our best-selling flush mounts come with built-in LEDs or included bulbs. Many built-in LED models also let you switch between warm and white light, and some have a remote with dimming.

03

Can I put a ceiling fan in a low room?

Yes. Choose a flush-mount fan, which sits close to the ceiling. Downrod fans hang lower and suit standard or high ceilings. All the fans in our collection have built-in lights.

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