Downlights are light fixtures that are installed on a ceiling or wall to provide a focused beam of light downwards to improve the visibility and functionality of the home. They are modern forms of lighting as they have clean designs that do not protrude on interior spaces, making them ideal for minimalist and sleek spaces in your contemporary home. Most downlights used LED lighting which is energy efficient and has a long lifespan, making them cost-effective compared to traditional incandescent light fixtures. A trim is the visible part on the downlight that finishes the installation. This is available in many styles and finishes such as white, chrome, steel, brass, brushed or polished, allowing you to alter your downlight to suit the design of your home.

Downlights have many benefits in comparison to using traditional ceiling lights. Downlights save space in your home as they are recessed into the ceiling and do not protrude into interior spaces, removing the look of clutter in your home and therefore improving the elegance and sophistication of your property. Hence, downlights are pioneers in offering a sleek and minimalist look that works well with contemporary, industrial and modern house designs. Further, downlights are flexible as they offer many settings from ambient lighting to accent lighting. These lights are energy efficient as they are usually offered in LED light fixtures, making it cost-effective for homeowners. Downlights require low maintenance as they have a longer lifespan, require less replacements and will have less dirty surfaces due to its inaccessible placement. 

To choose the right size of downlights in your home, consider the size of your room and height of your ceiling. Smaller rooms will typically require 2-4 inch downlights while medium sized rooms will require 4-6 inch downlights. Larger rooms are usually found in modern houses with open floor plans and therefore need 6-8 inch downlights. If downlights are placed on high ceilings, you should look for large fixtures to ensure it remains bright at night for enhanced visibility. If downlights are used for accent lighting or focal lighting to highlight architectural features, a 2-4 inch downlight is ideal, while a 4-6 inch downlight is ideal for ambient lighting. Downlights should be placed two times their diameter apart to ensure there is a sleek, minimalist look. You should consider where the downlights are placed such as in the entrance as a feature light or in bedrooms.

Yes! Downlights are an excellent choice for the lighting in your modern home as their minimalist, sleek design fits with your contemporary decor, offering a look that complements the clean lines and lack of clutter in your home. Downlights are usually offered in geometric shapes rather than biomorphic figures which complements the decor of a modern home.

For simple replacements in accessible areas, you can definitely install downlights yourself, especially if you have prior experience in this work. However, for new installations and if you are unsure about the safety level required with such electrical wiring, it is best to hire a professional electrician.