What Are Ceiling Light Surrounds?

Basic Ideas

• The basic purpose of a ceiling light surround is to provide an enclosure for the light base. The surround may be functional, hiding scars or areas where previous lights were installed. It may also provide a thicker base for a light to hang on a ceiling that is higher than normal. A surround may be closely fitted to the light base, or it may extend several feet on each side of the light.

Country Homes

• The style and material of a surround is limited only by your imagination. Surrounds fit into any home from country to highly formal. A country-charm-style home likely would have the ceiling light surround made from wood, or perhaps plaster to match the ceiling and wall material. A more rustic lodge might use rougher wood, while smooth wood gives a more upscale look. Having a wood carver cut your favorite designs into the surround will give it a personal touch.

Modern Homes

• A modern home might have a surround made from stainless steel or other metal. A tubular metal surround in a round or square shape hanging several inches from the ceiling and encompassing the light base could enhance or contrast with the other home design elements. Glass, acrylic or other composite material used as a surround indicates "modern" design to all who view it. Using a mirror on the ceiling as a surround allows more light from the lamp to reach the room.

Choosing a Surround

• Mixing design elements and using widely varying styles involving the home, the light fixture and the surround might prove jarring to the eyes. While some surrounds can be big and brassy, a subtle surround is better suited to some homes. Computer-assisted design packages allow you to view a wide variety of surrounds before you begin your construction or remodeling.