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Is Track Lighting on Trend? The Best LED Track Lighting Ideas for 2023

May 15, 2023

Track lighting kits are becoming increasingly popular for lighting medium to large rooms. Unlike other light fixtures, these have a bar or track that can accommodate up to eight light fixtures. They are designed to adjust and illuminate specific areas of a room or create an even wash of light. Compared to standard light fixtures, track lights can produce up to 800 lumens per lamp, making them more efficient at illuminating larger areas. Additionally, recessed lighting requires only a standard junction box, making it simpler to install than other types of multi-lamp and recessed fixtures. This guide explores the best beautiful and unique track lighting options available on the market and will examine the features to consider when shopping for track lighting kits.

Why is Track Lighting Still Cool?

Track lighting has a reputation for being dated, but with the right architectural lines, it can look very modern. This type of lighting can be used to highlight specific features in a room, such as artwork or architectural details. As with many design trends, it makes a comeback after going out of style. In the 1960s, trough lighting rose popular due to its functional and flexible nature. It then fell out of favor, only to return in the 1990s with a sleeker, more modern look. In today's design world, we see a resurgence of track lighting, with new and innovative designs that fit any style. With its ability to create ambiance and showcase unique features in a room, it’s no wonder why recessed lighting has stood the test of time and continues to be a popular lighting choice today.

Where to Use Track Lighting?

Track lighting is a versatile lighting option for a wide range of settings, including:

  • Office: In an office setting, track lighting is commonly used to highlight a desk or workspace or to create an even wash of light throughout the room.
  • Retail: In a retail setting, track lighting can be used to highlight products or displays or create a specific ambiance.
  • Garage: In a garage setting, track lighting can illuminate specific work areas, such as a workbench or tool storage area.
  • Art Gallery & Museum: Track lighting can highlight specific pieces or exhibits or create a specific ambiance in an art gallery or museum setting.
  • Residential & Commercial Kitchen: In a kitchen setting, track lighting can be used to highlight specific areas, such as a cooking or food prep area, or to create an even wash of light throughout the space.
  • Hotel: In a hotel setting, cool track lighting can create a specific ambiance in a room or highlight specific features, such as artwork or architectural details.
  • Cafe & Bar: In a cafe or bar setting, track lighting can create a specific mood or atmosphere or highlight specific areas, such as a bar or seating area.

What to Look for When Choosing Track Lights?

Types of Tracks

  • Linear

Linear track lighting is elegant track lighting that consists of several light fixtures on a single straight rail. The fixtures can be moved anywhere along the track and can hold a large number of lights.

  • Flexible

Flexible tracks can be bent to fit the room's shape and match its style.

  • Pendant

Hanging pendant lights at fixed heights are attached to the track. Each pendant light can be adjusted to a different height, creating an exciting and varied lighting effect.

Types of Fixtures

Track lighting fixtures are available in two types: pendant and track head. Fixture heads attach to the track and come in various styles, colors, and beam angles. They can produce washes of ambient light or tightly focused spotlights to highlight different room parts. On the other hand, Pendant lights attach to the rail and extend from a rod or wire below it, creating a more graceful look and softer lighting.

Bulbs & Wattage

To determine the number of heads that can be used on a track, consider the wattage each track is built to support. LED fixtures are recommended for their energy efficiency and lower wattage, which can accommodate more heads on the rail. Make sure to check bulb compatibility with the track lighting heads before purchasing. Most recessed lighting uses reflector, dichroic, or GU10 bulbs, while pendant heads could also use visually appealing bulbs such as carbon filament or Edison bulbs.

Brightness & Color Temperature

The Track lighting brightness is measured in lumens, ranging from 400 to 800 lumens. The more lumens, the brighter the lighting. Incandescent recessed lighting generates approximately 800 lumens per lamp, while halogen fixtures generate approximately 500 lumens per bulb. Color temperature, measured on the Kelvin scale, measures the warmth or coolness of the light. A light bulb that emits light between 1,000 and 4,000K is warmer, like a campfire or candle, while bulbs that emit light higher on the scale, between 6,000 and 10,000K, are cooler, similar to daylight. Consider brightness and color temperature when choosing track lighting for a room.

Dimming

The term track lighting refers to a type of lighting that consists of multiple lights on a single track. These fixtures can be adjusted individually to target different room parts, providing versatility. It is possible to move some fixtures anywhere on the rail while others are locked to their positions. As a result, individual lighting fixtures can be adjusted to create ambient lighting and general illumination levels or to illuminate specific items, such as artwork or furniture.

Design

Track lighting is not only an excellent way to brighten up a room, but it's also a cost-effective way to enhance its interior design. These fixtures come in various styles, from traditional to rustic farmhouses, and can be as long as eight feet. It's worth noting that designer track lighting is usually more expensive. When selecting a model, it's crucial to consider how the fixture's style will fit in with the rest of the home's decor.

How Do You Install Track Fixtures?

Installing track fixtures is a simple process that can be accomplished by following the manufacturer's instructions. At Centerlight, we provide detailed installation manuals for our products. You can find our installation manuals at these links: Track Installation Manual and Lights Installation Manual.

Conclusion

Track lighting is versatile in various ideas, from retail stores to residential kitchens. Despite its reputation for being outdated, recessed lighting has made a comeback in recent years with new and innovative designs. When choosing track lighting, consider the type of track, the type of fixtures, the bulbs and wattage, brightness and color temperature, dimming capabilities, and the overall design. At Centerlight, we offer a range of track lighting options, including our Magfinity track and light systems. For more information, including installation manuals, visit our website or give us a call.

  • Phone: +1-424-274-7444
  • Address: 4712 Admiralty Way, #299 Marina Del Rey, CA 90292