Surface mounted lights | Modular Lighting Instruments

What is surface-mounted lighting?

The type of lighting that is attached directly to the surface of ceilings or walls is known as surface-mounted lighting. This lighting remains visible, sitting externally on the chosen surface, unlike recessed lighting that is embedded into a surface.

Surface-mounted lighting has a distinct style due to its prominent placement and the absence of recessed housing. Not only it is a breeze to install but it also brings a unique vibe to any room, whether you're going for a modern look or something a bit more classic. Both stylish and straightforward, surface-mounted fixtures are a game-changer for your interior's lighting design.

Black surface box light with a gold accent around the led light

Modern surface black tube light

Modern ceiling surface light that can be adjustable with a golden accent

Why choose to mount a lighting fixtures directly on a surface

Surface-mounted lighting is a popular choice among interior architects for its practicality, because this often practical choice also offers a lot of versatility. Whether you're lighting a hallway, living room, or office, surface-mounted lighting provides a practical and stylish solution.

Download the lookbook

1. Installation made easy

Since surface-mounted fixtures mount directly onto the surface, the installation process is less complex. For instance, they mask completely drill holes or possible installation imperfections. Additionally, if you choose a model that includes a driver, you'll have an all-in-one package, eliminating the need to install a separate driver remote. That is why they are often the simplest solution for spaces with technical restraints or renovation projects.

2. Mood makers

Surface-mounted fixtures are versatile enough to create a variety of lighting effects, from ambient to task lighting, from direct to indirect lighting. These fixtures are also often orientable, allowing you to accentuate specific parts of a space, such as a work of art, or a coffee table. Whether you want to create a warm and cosy mood or a bright and energizing environment, surface-mounted lighting can help you achieve your desired light effect.

3. Let’s get personal

Altough often chosen because of practical reasons, surface-mounted fixtures offer a wide range of styles and sizes. They can be either subtle or present and decorative, making them a welcome addition to any lighting plan. The mix of volumes creates an interesting tension in a space, adding to the overall ambiance. With the ability to personalize your lighting, you can create a unique and inviting atmosphere that perfectly suits your style.

Square shapes in lighting design

Simplicity of lines

Square shapes are so loved because of their simplicity and versatility. Their clean lines create a sense of balance and order, making them aesthetically pleasing. Gifted with subtlety, this geometric darling easily fits in many settings, while providing ample possibilities for playfulness.

Discover more of our square designs

Round shapes in lighting design

Timeless curves

Round shapes are pure, everyone understands them and most importantly, they fit in all interiors. Add to this, a variety of finishes and colours and the job is done. This is the magic touch you need to create a minimalistic, elegant and personal lighting expression for your project.

Discover more of our round designs

Surface-mounted lighting ideas for your interior project?

Whether you're an interior architect that loves classic beauty or contemporary spaces, we've got you covered. Download our lookbook now and get access to some inspiring ideas for using lighting to create new stunning interiors.

Download the surface-mounted lookbook

Black surface-mounted lights in a modern living room

Round-shaped surface lights with magnetic reflectors

Adjustable black cylindrical shape lights in a modern home office

Black cylindrical surface light

Spotlights in a white box that matches perfectly in a modern kitchen

A black surface lighting box combined with bronze brushed spotlights

Driver included or excluded?

When it comes to surface-mounted lighting, it's important to note that fixtures can be either driver included or driver excluded. The driver is an electronic component that regulates the power to the LED light source. The decision to choose driver included or driver excluded fixtures will depend on the specific needs of the space.

Choose a driver-included luminaire

In driver-included fixtures, the driver is built into the fixture itself. Choose this option when the driver cannot be placed remotely. This is often the case for renovations or new constructions where lighting was planned late in the process.

Discover our driver-included luminaires

Choose a driver-excluded luminaire

In driver excluded fixtures, the driver is separate and needs to be installed elsewhere, for instance in a false ceiling or in the electrical cabinet. If a space requires a large number of fixtures, choosing driver excluded fixtures can help to reduce costs.

Discover our driver-excluded luminaires

Ceiling and wall

Surface-mounted luminaires are a versatile lighting option that can be installed on both ceilings and walls. One design is often fit to match both surfaces. This flexibility allows for a cohesive lighting plan to be created throughout a space, resulting in a professional look and feel.

By using surface-mounted luminaires in various rooms, the lighting can be balanced and consistent, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the space.

Download our Surface-Mounted Lighting Lookbook now!

Discover our architectural surface lighting systems

Product filter list

Like what you see?

We offer lighting designs to interior professionals. If you have a project and you need lighting to complement your concept, get in touch now.

Request a lighting design