1. Plaster-In Downlights
By far the most attractive recessed downlights — mainly because you can't see them. Plaster-in downlights blend seamlessly with the ceiling, reducing visual clutter and working with virtually any interior style. Round is the most common shape, but they come in a variety of forms, including geometric squares and rectangles and beautiful organic shapes with slopes and curves. Price points vary widely, and many are more affordable than you'd expect.
They have enough nuance to warrant their own dedicated article — see Plaster-In Downlights: What to Know Before You Specify Them for the full picture. Or send a message for expert advice.
- Important: Plaster-in downlights must be fitted before the ceiling is skimmed.
Plaster-In downlights should be ordered prior to first fix
2. Trimless
Very similar to plaster-in downlights — once installed, it's very difficult to tell the difference though you may see a slight ring where the trim meets the board. The key distinction: trimless downlights use a steel screen fitted to the underside of the ceiling (around the cut-out), which is then skimmed over. This makes the relationship between the fitting and the plasterboard slightly less critical than with plaster-in versions.
Trimless downlights tend to offer more baffle choices in metal finishes — useful if you want a black baffle with a seamless ceiling, for example. They come in standard shapes (round, square, double), whereas plaster-in options offer a wider variety of more organic forms.
- Important: Trimless downlights must also be fitted before the ceiling is skimmed.
Trimless downlights vary in installation, some look plastered-in and some show a ring
3. Flush Trim
The trim sits flush with the ceiling plane rather than protruding — sleek in theory, but relatively rare in practice. If you're going to the effort of skimming a light into the ceiling, a trimless or plaster-in option will give you a cleaner result without the visible outer ring. Flush trim may occasionally be useful for covering plaster imperfections.
- Important: Must be fitted before the ceiling is skimmed.
Very similar to trimless but the flush trim makes it slightly easier to install
4. Minimal Trim
A tiny, barely-there trim — a great solution if it's too late to skim lights into the ceiling but you still want the effect of barely-visible downlights. The trim covers any frayed edges around the cut-out, and many minimal trim downlights have a slight curve that adds to their appeal. One caveat: installation requires a patient, methodical electrician. These are fiddly, and there's very little room for error.
You can install these AFTER skimming the ceiling but still takes time & care
5. Standard Trim
The most common type, and for good reason — they're straightforward to install. The electrician cuts a hole, and the trim fits over it, hiding any rough edges. These can be fitted after the ceiling is painted, making them the most flexible option in terms of timing. Available at a wide range of price points, from affordable painted metal to premium finishes in specialist metals and even wood.
Easy to install after 1st fix - wide range of trim finishes available
6. Semi-Recessed Downlights
Rather than hiding away, semi-recessed downlights make a feature of the body. The light source is tucked inside, surrounded by the fitting — which does double duty as an anti-glare measure. Some have crystal glass covering the bottom, which I personally prefer to looking at a bare LED chip. Semi-recessed lights often require a shallower ceiling void than fully recessed options, which can be a practical advantage.
Semi-recessed downlights are a great combination of decorative and architectural lighting
7. Wall Wash Downlights
Designed to cast light sideways rather than straight down, wall washers illuminate walls with a wide, even wash of light. Excellent for avoiding downward glare and shadows, and particularly effective for lighting walls with artwork, beautiful wallpaper, or murals. Note: wall washers throw light directly across, so elaborate moulding may cast shadows.
If you can't find a decent wall washer (not easy) then put a regular downlight close to the wall for a similar effect
8. Adjustable Downlights
The light source can be tilted or rotated to direct light exactly where you need it — useful for accent lighting, highlighting artwork, or compensating for a ceiling point that isn't directly above the target area.
Though you can angle the light, there will be a cut off as the beam hits the light
9. Bathroom Downlights
Rated IP65 or higher, making them suitable for use in wet zones. Available in round and square versions, and in both white and black finishes. The same considerations around trim type apply — plaster-in, trimless, and standard trim versions are all available.
Although they're called 'bathroom' lights, they can be used outdoors too
*check that the finish won't deteriorate outdoors
10. Fire-Rated Downlights
You will need 'fire-rated' downlights if you have living quarters above the ceiling. You will not need fire-rated fittings if there is no floor above.
Fire-rated lights are more expensive than 'normal' downlights, therefore, it may be worth figuring out exactly where you need them so you don't buy fire-rated lights where you don't need them.
You can buy 'fire hoods' for regular downlights but fitting them can be tricky.
ALWAYS DEFER TO YOUR ELECTRICIAN FOR REGULATION REQUIREMENTS
11. Light Bulb Recessed Downlights
Not everything has to be a standard round or square fitting. There are some interesting recessed options out there — E27 lampholders that let you use a decorative bulb, glass sphere trims, and other unexpected details. Worth exploring if you want something a little different.
This is a cool solution for low ceilings that could use a bit of character
