Features of spotlights

Competent organization of lighting is the key to success in the design of almost any room, be it an office, apartments or country cottage rooms. There are many ways to create a light space, the number of models of lamps sold in stores cannot be quantified, but the main thing in this process is following certain principles. The key one is a clear separation of the concepts of primary and secondary lighting. An almost ideal option for the latter is the correct selection of spotlights.

In fact, there is nothing special or unique about spot lamps. These are quite ordinary products, capable, nevertheless, of surprising. As a rule, this technology means the use of separately spaced lamps (any). The distance between them usually varies. from 20 to 40 cm.

In Western terminology, they are also called chandeliers-spot (hereinafter we will use transliteration in the form of "spot lamps", "spot chandeliers" or simply "spots"). Actually, the word "spot" in literal translation means "place", "spot", which reflects the essence of the product - the illumination of a certain point-zone, emanating from a given position.

The closest association for such lighting fixtures is theatrical spotlights, but this is not entirely correct. The fact is that under soffits we mean a special metal structure for hanging lamps; point devices have a much wider range of applications, rather than spotlights. They can be single, double or triple, wall and floor, overhead and ceiling - almost any. At the same time, the range of use of various types of lamps in such lamps is not limited by anything.

In visual terms, spotlights are isolated sources of directional light that can illuminate parts of a room or furniture, and create a shaded, "diffused" atmosphere in the room.

The design of such products is rich in innovations and discoveries. There are models on a leg, on a tire, on a bar, with a motion sensor and a remote control. Exclusive design items are often equipped with decorative interior pendants and other adornments. However, even the simplest spotlights are capable of giving a pleasant, matte light.

The appearance of such light sources is also sufficiently aesthetic... On sale you can find models made of wood, metal, plastic, glass, glossy and mirror, as well as those intended for tint.

These items of "light interior" can be used in many rooms: from the bathroom to the living room.

Small-sized single lighting devices have both advantages and disadvantages, so you need to use them wisely, and they are not suitable for all interiors and rooms.

Among the main advantages:

• Compactness. These are very small lamps that will fit even into a very small room: a bedroom, a bathroom, etc. In addition, it is real and easy to embed them with your own hands in almost any surface: for example, in a shelf above a bathroom, a chipboard sheet above a table or night table.

• Variability.The shapes of such lighting fixtures allow the use of many types of lamps in them: from ordinary incandescent to halogen, LED and even neon. The power can also be varied. There is a very rich selection of models of the lamps themselves, which are suitable for many interior styles: classic, modern (high-tech, loft), colonial, modern.
• Expansion effect of space. The use of such devices makes the room visually wider and the ceilings higher. Of course, this effect only manifests itself with good design.

• Targeted lighting. Compact fixtures solve problems that cannot be dealt with with basic lighting. For example, with their help, you can highlight a separate area, an object of furniture, or even select a light space altogether. This is true in large rooms and studio apartments. With the help of points of light, you can divide a voluminous room into a dining room, a bedroom, a living room and other areas.

• Manufacturability. Such products are now at the height of fashion, so all the chips of progress can be found in this brand sector. Among them are unique designs with regulation of the level of illumination, color temperature, as well as “smart” technologies that allow tracking the natural biorhythms of a person and adapting lighting to specific needs, taking into account the time of day and season.
• In dimmable (with a built-in electronic dimmer) structures, the consumer has the opportunity to independently adjust the lighting level, or even create interesting visual effects - gradual ignition or extinction of light, color vibrations and others. The dimmer as a device first became widespread in the theater and only then "migrated" into the household sphere.
• Price. If you need to save money, buying a spot lamp is a very good idea. It is much cheaper than an expensive chandelier or its counterparts. Of course, the price range is wide, but if necessary, you can always pick up an economy-class product. Average spot price tag is lower than other lamps.

At the same time, point designs have a number of significant disadvantages. Let's name the main ones:

• Limited scope. In some interiors, such lamps are inapplicable, for example, in radical classical stylizations. In too large rooms, living rooms with high ceilings, it is also difficult to find an adequate spot for spots. The only way out here is to create an impromptu "starry sky", but this is expensive and not always advisable.

• They are mainly used as an additional light source. As the main one, you will still have to "light" traditional lamps and chandeliers, especially in spacious rooms.
• Difficulties with electrical wiring. In suspended ceilings and other structures, it is not recommended to use too powerful products that have the property of being very hot. This limits the possibilities for implementing the ideas of light saturation and light transmission and, in general, complicates the mechanics of organizing electric lighting in a room. Additional wires may appear, and in some areas of the room the light will not be able to be conducted at all.

• The need for redevelopment. Often, to install spotlights, it is necessary to "take apart into bricks" almost the entire interior. Moreover, it is possible that you will even have to completely change the design of the supporting elements and the ceiling. If you later want to change something again, you will again have to spend a lot of time and effort on installation and dismantling.
• They can overheat, and as a result, spoil the ceiling and other interior elements. In case of inattention to the wiring of the spots, there are ways to cause a fire and fire.
• Due to the design features, it is often problematic to monitor the cleanliness of the shades of spotlights.

And one more thing - spotlights on the market have many competitors - the same floor lamps for the bedroom or elongated LEDs for the bathroom, but they cannot fully replace all the richness of the spot functionality.

The main components of spotlights are the holder and the body, the shade, as well as special mounts - usually these are flexible fixing elements, springs. As a rule, there are two clamps, but more can be used for reliability. Usually, the cartridge and mounts are not visible, as they are located in the depth of the case, which can be made of various materials: from metal to plastic and ceramic. Usually the body is solid, and the whole structure may somehow resemble a slightly enlarged flashlight.

A lamp is inserted into the socket - almost any type of product can be used, including incandescent lamps and LEDs. In stretch ceilings, chipboard or drywall, the power of the lamps should be monitored, since their overheating can lead to unpleasant consequences: from damage to the interior to a fire.

The product usually comes with a cable - its length must be sufficient and selected taking into account the specifics of the electrical wiring in the room.

By design features, all LEDs are divided into open and closed. The former are used in most rooms, the latter have an additional protective case (casing) that protects against moisture and dust. When buying a bathroom product, pay attention to the indicator IP (Index of Protection), especially on the first two digits, denoting dust and moisture resistance, respectively. The higher they are, the better. Ideally, you need to vary them from 21 to 67, depending on the proximity of the location to open water (bath or sink).

Additional design elements include various decor. Minimalism goes very well with spot lamps, but often it is emphasized by discreet relief patterns on the surface of the body. In modern styles, loft and high-tech, this is enough, however, pendants, inlays with stones, shell rock, crystal, and stained glass are often used to decorate a spot in the classical spirit.

There are many classifications of spotlights. Let's dwell on a few:

• By type of installation. Overhead products have a fastening platform in their structure and allow not to violate the integrity of the walls and ceiling during fastening. The recessed luminaires are suitable for frame bases, whether it be stretch ceilings, niches in the walls or drywall. There are also pendant light sources located at some distance from the surface.
• By mobility. They can be stationary or rotary. The latter are capable of both changing the angle of illumination and, in some cases, moving out, but they require more reliable and high-quality fastening.

• At the place of installation. There are models for exteriors (outdoor, street lights) and interiors. A separate group includes waterproof models for the bathroom.
• By the type of luminaires used. With incandescent lamps, LEDs, neon or halogen lighting fixtures.
• By the way of power supply. Either the lamps are connected to the electrical network, or run on batteries or accumulators.

In spots, you can use different types of lamps, each of which has both advantages and disadvantages:

• Luminescent. The most efficient choice, as these lamps have a very favorable light output. Large formats are used in public buildings such as hospitals or schools; in the point version, they “smooth out” the lack of spots in terms of lighting brightness.
• Incandescent lamps. The cheapest option, but not always applicable. Not very well suited for suspended and stretch ceilings. Such products get very hot, which means that the fire hazard increases.

• Energy saving lighting devices. They give very soft light and are not very hot. They may not be suitable for organizing a place for reading or work, but at the same time they allow you to create additional coziness and comfort through the effect of diffused light. They are often installed with a dimmer.
• Halogen (in everyday life the wording "halogen" is sometimes used) lamps. In fact, also incandescent lamps, but with a lower heating temperature and better light output. Of the minuses - the possible presence of a specific "noise", especially when working with a dimmer.
• Light-emitting diode (LED) devices. Good luminous efficiency, no heating problems, plus environmental friendliness. Very technologically advanced.

Luminaires should be installed in accordance with the power supply diagram. In one room, you can place several at once - two, three or more lamps. The optimal distance between them should be about 20-40 cm. The design is popular now "Starry sky"when spotlights are installed at intervals over the entire surface of the ceiling. This scheme looks good in large rooms with high ceilings, including rooms with columns.

The shape of the product can be very different. On sale there are rectangular, round, square, flat and convex, thin and thickened, narrow models, tablet lamps. Some lighting fixtures are made in the form of stars, cylinders or roses. There are also quite unusual designs that combine ornaments and intersections of complex geometric shapes.

Spots can be large, small and mini. In the case of round products, the size is determined by the diameter of the product and, accordingly, the hole that will have to be made in the wall, ceiling or on another surface in the case of a built-in model structure. Better to do it with a minimum margin. The diameter of the cutting hole is usually indicated in the instructions. It is important to distinguish between the external "decorative" diameter (it is larger and reaches an average of 90 mm) with the diameter of the hole for the lamp: it is about a third smaller and usually ranges from 60 to 75 mm.

Various substances are used to make the body of the spots. As a rule, these are either natural elements, for example, wood, or mixtures and alloys - from bronze to more complex compositions. Metal cases, bronze, of chrome are widespread. Glass is traditionally used in the design of the lighting fixtures themselves.The decor can also be multifaceted, often including materials such as crystal (crystal pendants). Lamps with crystal or inlaid with precious stones (or their imitations) will do for both classic and modern interiors. Another popular material is plastic: it is very lightweight and easy to use, suitable for painting.

On sale there are models of a very wide color range. Often, the products are colored. Among monochromatic ones, black, white, red, green, blue, light blue, beige, orange are popular. Such lamps are suitable for a bathroom or nursery, as well as a living room. However, colored and even more multi-colored lamps do not always fit into classic interiors.

Spotlights are suitable as an additional light source for almost all interiors, but when using them within each of the styles, there are a number of peculiarities:

• Classic. It is best to avoid bright body shades. It is desirable to make the light itself warm and soft, slightly diffused. Even if the purpose of the spot is to create a separate light spot in the room, the boundaries of the latter should be blurred.

• Provence... Light airy stylizations look good, for example, in aqua. Spot body can be blue, green, beige, white. This is a good opportunity to experiment with interesting design shapes as well.

• Contemporary styles. For a loft, it is better to choose something that is not too complicated, for high-tech, and at all - minimalistic. It is reasonable to use swivel lamps - this will make the light space noticeably more saturated and dynamic.

• Country. In this style, spotlights are rarely used, and their efficiency comes first. Ideally, the spots here should be invisible, but useful. With their help, you can create additional "corners", cozy light spaces.

• Modern... The most common use of spots around the perimeter of the ceiling, adding the desired style contrast to the main light source - usually a neat decorative chandelier. An alternative for large living rooms is the "starry sky".

• Retro... In retro styles, it is effective to embed spots into the walls, which allows not only to visually expand the space, but also to make it more harmonious and collected. If there are stairs in the room, you can install the lamps in the floor, but they should never be too bright - this will destroy the atmosphere stylized as "old-fashioned".

• Scandinavian. Additional light sources can be used in slatted ceilings. The lighting temperature should not be too high, the colors should be cool, therefore, it is better to choose the body of the spot with light airy shades. White, beige, blue will do.

Spotlights are manufactured by many companies around the world. All of them have both brand and national specifics. Let's give a brief overview of the market:

• German spots are traditionally very high quality. Their main attributes are ease of use, practicality and reliability. At the same time, many models are devoid of any decor and are made as simple as possible. This healthy minimalism is perfect for small apartment owners. Among the firms are Brilliant.
• Italians, on the contrary, often become "hostages" of the form. Their products are exquisite, often eclectic, but very rich in color. The most famous brands are Arte Lamp, Lightstar.

• Belgium. Highly technological products, including swivel models. Large assortment: you can choose colors and shapes for almost every taste, however, many manufacturers still focus on models for modern interiors.Therefore, it is better to pay attention to the Belgian sector of the market for those who prefer non-classic design. The company's products are popular in Russia Massive.
• Russia. Firms Arlight, Ambrella other. More affordable in terms of price than European products. At the same time, they have good quality and good light output.

When choosing a specific spot model, first of all, you should decide where and on what ceiling it will be used. For wooden single-level ceilings, too bright products are not suitable. At the same time, almost any design novelties can be built into plasterboard and slatted ceilings.

For the bedroom, it is better to purchase energy-saving lamps... In the hallway, hall, living room or corridor, you can safely experiment with more accented light and color scheme of the enclosures. For the bathroom, you should buy shockproof, moisture and dustproof products.

Do not forget that spots can be built not only into the ceiling, PVC wall panels, but also into the floor - this solution will be relevant for stairs or attic. Floor lamps should be as shockproof as possible, especially if pets live in the house or apartment.

And the last moment - when choosing a lamp do not judge too harshly its light qualities. Spot is a source of additional lighting and most likely, it will need to be combined with a chandelier in any case.

In a spacious bathroom, in addition to the main lighting, two LEDs can be built into the shelf above the sink or on the sides at a distance of about 20-30 cm from each other. Turning on them (without the main source) will provide the room with enough light and create a feeling of coziness and intimacy in the bathroom.

In a large or medium living room, you can use spots to create an impromptu "starry sky". Luminaires should be located along the ceiling radius in several rows (uneven) at a distance of at least 30-40 cm from each other. Up to two dozen lighting fixtures may be required. This design is appropriate for a living room decorated in light colors and not furnished with heavy antique furniture.

An interesting option for a bedroom is to place 10-12 lamps (depending on the size of the room) above the bed at a distance of 30-40 cm from each other. Dimmable devices can be used. They will create the shape of a light rectangle or square. Lighting should be "washed out", not too accentuated, soft - to achieve this effect it is better to use energy-saving lamps. With a radical design, the use of neon lighting is not excluded.

And the last idea is for the kitchen. In it, spotlights can be used to highlight specific interior items: a sink, a dining area (table), a refrigerator, and others, or they can be located along the perimeter of the ceiling. Not only ceiling, but also wall models, as well as hanging (over a large table) products are relevant.

In a small kitchen, using spots, you can illuminate an electric stove (quite often, however, light sources are already built into its design). A beautiful solution would be to divide the separate parts of the kitchen into light zones: places for cooking, for a family dinner, for relaxation. Such zoning will allow you to use the spots with maximum efficiency.

In general, spot lamps can look spectacular in almost any room and fulfill important practical functions at the same time. In addition, the use of such lamps is always a large field for design experiments, an opportunity to fully reveal your aesthetic imagination.

How to choose luminaires for stretch ceilings, see below.