Track lights
Lighting devices are far from the last place in the arrangement of the home. These objects only seem inconspicuous and insignificant. In fact, with the help of correctly selected details, you can "revive" the interior and emphasize its style.
What it is?
First, you need to answer the question of what track lighting devices are. These are special systems in which the light sources are attached and moved on a special busbar. Thanks to such a simple design, you can change the position of the bulbs, focusing their light on a certain interior detail. These types of lighting fixtures are often used not only in residential premises, but also in public institutions: cafes, museums, restaurants, offices, jewelry stores and many other settings. This speaks of the versatility of such devices.
They look great in many ensembles.
As a rule, the following elements are included in the structure of such luminaires:
- Directly the busbar along which the lamps move;
- Searchlights;
- Plugs;
- Rotary mechanisms.
Of course, the modification of a particular device largely depends on its manufacturer. Today in stores you can find more advanced copies equipped with other functional elements.
See the next video for what track lights are.
Advantages and disadvantages
Like any other lighting fixture, the track light has a number of advantages and disadvantages.
First, you should familiarize yourself with the list of advantages of such products:
- Using rail devices, the owners have the opportunity to form directional lighting. Currently, there are many modifications of these models. In some models, the direction of the light can be adjusted, while in others the bulbs are stationary;
- It is worth noting that track lights are quite simple, but functional;
- It is easy and simple to use such devices. Even a child can cope with this;
- With the help of correctly selected lamps, you can change the layout of the room, making it more spacious or, conversely, compact;
- Many consumers opt for such devices, since they can be equipped with lighting devices of different designs, and even the technical characteristics of the bulbs themselves can differ significantly from each other;
- Track lights can be installed on ceilings with almost any finish. This is why they have become so popular and widespread;
- In addition, the installation of such devices is simple and easy. You do not need to call specialists for this. The main thing is to purchase all parts from one manufacturer so that the design is more stable and reliable;
- In adjustable models, you can independently direct the light in the direction necessary for the owners;
- Of course, one should not forget about the attractive design of such devices. They look simple and unobtrusive, so they easily fit into many interior styles;
- It should be noted that in the course of their work, such lamps do not heat up, are fireproof and do not emit unpleasant sounds;
- Compact cable track lights look great in a wide variety of room layouts. They can be installed even in a very small room;
- Track lights "emit" small electromagnetic radiation, which is within acceptable limits.
Despite such an impressive list of advantages of track lamps, they still have one drawback - their high cost. However, if we take into account the many advantages of such systems, then we can close our eyes to such a defect.
Types of track system
There are several varieties of modern track lighting systems. Such designs are divided into two main groups. The belonging of a luminaire to one category or another depends on the ability to change the number of simultaneously operating lamps in the device. Dimmable options have this function. Those lighting fixtures that do not have this function are common.
Also, track lights differ in the design of the busbar:
- Single phase;
- Two-phase;
- Three-phase;
- Minitrack options, the power of which does not exceed 12 watts.
A certain number of phases shows how many bulbs in the device can be used at the same time. Moreover, all sources can act together or work separately. There is also another criterion according to which track lights are divided into two types. This criterion is the installation method. There are the following options.
- Embedded. Such lamps are installed in pre-prepared niches or a specific place in the room. These options are great for both home interiors and museums;
- Portable. Most often, such track systems are used for concerts and other similar events. They are also often found in public places (cafes, bars, clubs). Such designs are distinguished by mobility. They can be easily moved to a new location;
- Spring loaded. Spring track lights are also mobile. Such a flexible and durable luminaire surpasses simple static specimens in many respects.
Components
Rail or track lamps, which are fashionable in our time, have a fairly simple design. They consist of several single bulbs mounted on a special busbar. Simply put, several lamps (both identical and different) are located simultaneously on one main rail (bus). They all belong to a single electrical system. Individual tracks in these designs are connected by tires, which are special parts with power systems or special calipers.
Tracks come in many forms:
- Rectangular;
- Straight;
- Cruciform;
- U-shaped;
- L-shaped;
- Flexible.
Calipers and tires make the rail light fixture reliable and connect all important parts firmly to each other. In addition, most designs have special plugs located on the side of the tire. They serve only a decorative function.
In addition to the main details and decor, as a rule, the following equally important components are present in the track systems:
- The lighting device itself, powered by a certain type of light bulb. For track luminaires, LED options are the ideal solution;
- An electrical conductor through which current flows to each lamp in a niche;
- A special transformer that adapts the mains voltage for each type of light bulb;
- Connection details. Such components can only be decorative or practical. It all depends on one or another lamp model;
- Suspension for lamps.
Lamps
These types of lamps can be installed in a track luminaire.
- Halogen;
- Metal halide;
- Luminescent;
- LED.
Most often, there are economical and bright lamps with LED bulbs.Such options are characterized by low power consumption and long service life. A high-quality LED light bulb is not cheap, but it can help you save a lot on electricity.
Colors
Track lights can be of different colors, but the most popular and widespread are designs in classic shades. Let's take a closer look at the most attractive options that will look organic in many interior styles.
- Black and white. Such versatile models fit perfectly into many ensembles. These designs look best on a contrasting background. Otherwise, the luminaires may merge with the walls. For example, snow-white models will stand out well against the background of pastel, rich or dark walls, and black ones, on the contrary, in snow-white, beige, cream, peach and other similar rooms;
- Traditional gray options are versatile and neutral. They can be positioned in almost any setting. The main thing is not to place them against the background of the same gray walls and ceiling, otherwise the ensemble will turn out to be boring and "insipid";
- Some of the most popular are chrome structures... They not only look spectacular, but also bring special futuristic notes to the interior. However, it should be borne in mind that such options will look harmoniously only in modern interiors. They will not work for classical ensembles;
- Fans of non-standard and bold solutions will surely fall in love with red track lights... Such designs look very original and fresh. They look especially impressive in contrasting ensembles, for example, on a white or black background;
- Rail lamps look elegant and attractive gold plated... Such pieces will look harmonious in many ensembles. Gold-colored models can be selected even for classic interiors.
Application
Nowadays, lighting fixtures play one of the most important roles in creating a harmonious interior. Not so long ago, track systems were used only for the arrangement of industrial areas or large shopping centers. Initially, they had a special design, with the help of which it was possible to easily illuminate a large space without leaving dark corners. Today, such lighting devices are actively used in various premises.
- Museums and galleries. Track lighting devices in such conditions are used not only to illuminate the entire area of the room, but also to highlight certain exhibits or paintings that require special attention;
- The shops. Track lights are a great solution to draw attention to a certain category of goods in a retail space. Many designers and businessmen turn to similar options;
- Country and private houses and city apartments. Track lamps look especially organic in such large living areas. Most often they are installed in the living room, bathroom and in the kitchen above the dining table or "island" for cooking;
- Bar, cafes, clubs. In this case, track lights, as in the other situations listed, are perfect for attracting the attention of visitors to a specific area.
Many designers use track lights in their work to divide the space. For example, using such appliances, it will be possible to divide the cooking area and dining space in the kitchen.
Tire models and design
Busbar lights look best in modern interiors. For example, in a "garage" loft style, such lighting fixtures will look organic and attractive. They can be installed against a background of rough walls with decorative bricks or plain gray surfaces.Most often, for such environments, laconic designs of black or dark brown are selected.
Also, track lights are perfect for ultra-modern high-tech interiors. Many designers call this trend “a classic of modern youth”. This style is characterized by uncomplicated details made from unnatural and high-tech materials. For example, it can be metal, high-quality plastic and other similar options. In such ensembles, track white, black and chrome models will look the best possible.
Rail lights are also suitable for a minimalist style. Such interiors are simple, devoid of graceful lines and patterned weaves. Such lighting devices just have a laconic and discreet design that does not have intricate decorative elements that have no place in minimalistic ensembles.
How to choose lighting?
In choosing a high-quality and beautiful track lamp, you must adhere to some simple rules.
- First you need to decide what type of lamp you want to install in your home: mobile or built-in, adjustable or stationary. Each type of device has its own pros and cons, which you should familiarize yourself with in order to settle on a suitable option;
- Before making a purchase, be sure to carefully inspect the design of the luminaire. It should be in perfect condition. All fasteners must be reliable and of high quality. If the track system does not inspire confidence in you and seems too flimsy, then it is better to refuse to buy it;
- Don't forget about the color scheme of the lamp. For a room with a dark finish, it is better to buy a contrasting model in white, beige or red. As for light rooms, dark track lights will look best in them. In both cases, you can install spectacular chrome specimens;
- Go shopping only in branded stores and choose products from well-known manufacturers. This will save you from purchasing a low-quality lamp that will quickly fail.
Manufacturers
Consider the merits of several leading manufacturers of high-quality and beautiful track lights.
- Arte Lamp. This Italian brand produces durable and reliable LED lighting fixtures in classic colors. Most of the Arte Lamp products are designed for a modern high-tech style and have a discreet design;
- Citilux. Track lights from this brand from Denmark are usually in Art Nouveau style. Many have graceful curved bases and pendant light bulbs of various shapes;
- Novotech. This Hungarian manufacturer produces high quality LED track lights in a combination of two colors. It can be white and black or black and chrome. They look very stylish and modern;
- Paulman. The assortment of this German brand includes inexpensive and laconic Art Nouveau lamps with a laconic design and matte gray surfaces.
Beautiful ideas in the interior
Gray track lights with long bases will look good in a spacious living room in pure white tones. Place a white couch in such a room, a small table with cream chairs and decorate one of the walls with decorative bricks. You can dilute "fresh" paints with large contrasting paintings on the walls.
The large square track structure with black bases will look organic against the backdrop of the wood-paneled walls. This solution is often used in private two-story houses, where the first floor has a very high ceiling. Under such a lighting system, you can place a gray cozy sofa, a TV stand with all the necessary equipment and even a small fireplace on the right side of the furniture.
Track lights with a light base, small bulbs and two large pendant lampshades can be hung over a light wood dining table in a room with crisp white walls. Place beige plastic chairs on a metal frame side by side and dilute the ensemble with accent yellow trim on the far wall, as well as contrasting small paintings on the walls.
A loft-style bedroom will definitely appeal to lovers of non-standard solutions. So, in a white room with a dark laminate floor, you can put a low modular bed in a blue shade and decorate the lower part of the wall behind it with decorative red bricks. In such an environment, black ceiling track lamps installed in two rows and one snow-white curved floor lamp near the berth will stand out effectively.
The track lighting system can also be installed next to the stairs leading to the second floor in a private house. It is desirable that this design matches the color of the railings or steps of the structure. For example, against the background of a snow-white finish, black staircase details and black track lights on white cables will look harmonious.
Snow-white track lamps can be combined in the interior with pendant chandeliers with chrome surfaces. For example, this solution is ideal for a kitchen with dark green walls, white ceilings and glossy black floors. Track models can be hung next to a white headset, and chrome lamps can be hung over a glass table with a thick curved white leg and black original chairs. The ensemble will turn out to be unusual and attractive.
Black track lights can be hung in a white loft-style room with white decorative brick walls. Place two shiny blue sofas in such a room opposite each other, and between them place a small fireplace and lay a rug with a zebra print. Hang a TV and colorful pictures on the walls behind the upholstered furniture. Complete this interior with attached vase tables, complemented by live plants in rich colors and tall floor lamps with red or yellow legs.
Chromed rail systems will look great in the bathroom over console vanities with a sink. Decorate the walls in such a room with black materials, and lay tiles or waterproof gray laminate on the floor.
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