Vaulted ceilings are incredibly appealing to today’s buyers. Once purchased or rented, people begin to notice that they can be dark and dreary if not properly lit. This leaves many people wondering what type of light fixtures to use and how to light the area in a proper, attractive way. Fortunately, lighting a vaulted ceiling is surprisingly easy once you know a few basic tips and tricks.
Skylights
If you’ve got the budget for them, consider installing a skylight or two. Keep in mind, a skylight does not have to be a large rectangular or square window. You can also consider installing tubular skylights, which are smaller in scale but equally effective when you install them in multiples. Furthermore, tubular skylights are significantly less expensive than their more prevalent larger counterparts.
Wall Sconces
Wall sconces, particularly upward lighting wall sconces, can be especially helpful in lighting vaulted spaces. There are battery powered and hard wired options available to fit every budget. These are a great way to bring a little bit of extra light to the space without being overwhelming. With high ceilings, the idea is to accent and brighten up the area in the evening hours of the day; not to overwhelm or overpower the space with too much light.
Typically in the evening, you want your space to feel comfortable and cozy. Over-lighting a vaulted ceiling will only make the space feel large and overpowering.
Pendant Lights
Another viable option, pendant lights can help brighten up the dark corners. However, downward pointing pendant lights may not necessarily be the best option. Instead, opt for pendants that have clear shades or shades that point light upward rather than downward.
Pendant lights are also among the more easily updated or swapped out when you feel the need to update or change the look of your room. This makes them just as flexible as other light fixture options.
Recessed Lighting Fixtures
Recessed light fixtures are ideal for those who are looking to light up their space but don’t want the look of additional light fixtures cluttering up their vaulted ceiling space. Plus, recessed lighting fixtures are highly adaptable to a number of different decor styles ranging from modern to eclectic.
Track Lights
In recent years, track lights have begun to slowly make a comeback. Modern versions of this ceiling light fixture have taken track lights from out-of-date to modern, chic and desirable. Simply put, track lights are no longer considered a faux pax.
One of the benefits of track lights is that they can be easily installed on a slope, making them perfect for vaulted ceilings. Plus, track lights feature adjustable heads that let you alter where the light shines, making this fixture especially customizable for vaulted ceilings that have lots of slopes or corners.
Floor Lamps
Last but not least, floor lamps that point their light upwards are a completely acceptable way to brighten up a vaulted ceiling. However, keep in mind that a single floor lamp may not be adequate for lighting a large vaulted ceiling. In fact, you may spend just as much on purchasing several floor lamps as you may have on installing a new ceiling light fixture.