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Home Decorating Design Dilemma

Does a surface light track look terrible on a cement ceiling?

3 years ago

Contemporary Manhattan condo. I need some sort of ceiling fixture over the dining table. Just doesn’t feel like a real meal to me without one! But the ceiling is cement, and a surface light track has been recommended by the contractor. I’m reading that in lofts a surface light track is often used. we don’t have high ceilings, however.

I would love a dandelion/fireworks light to go with other MCM pieces. Can anybody tell me whether the surface light track (from the top of the wall across the ceiling a few feet to the light fixture) would be minimally noticeable or a glaring disaster? I’m hoping the arms of the light itself would hide a lot of the surface light track, and it would not be visible from the table or doorway, only from sitting underneath at the table.

Featured Answer

cawaps

3 years ago

I react to surface-mounted wiring (like you, I have no idea what the proper term is) the same way I react to heating vents and light switches and outlets and other necessary-but-unsightly-if-you-think-about-them-too-much items--I recognize that they are necessary and then don't think about them too much. I really don't think this is a big deal.

Track lighting, though, is certainly worth looking into, as it sounds like it hadn't been on your radar as an option. It's a great solution for situations where you can't install junction boxes where you want them.

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Comments (10)

PRO
BeverlyFLADeziner
3 years ago
So you don't have the typical ceiling heights for concrete ceilings???

If you don't want to swag a light over to the table here are some options for you.
artsfan thanked BeverlyFLADeziner
artsfan
Original Author
3 years ago
Yes thanks I have an arc lamp in my living room but feel like it would be awkward at the table. I like the first photo, which is sort of wearing the track proudly; would it work on my 9-foot ceiling?

Happy to swag but I have only a ceiling fixture in the open kitchen. That would be around 4 feet away and I need that fixture.
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Patricia Colwell Consulting
3 years ago
I need to see your situation but track lighting has come a long way and can work very well with a 9’ ceiling Look at Tech lighting for some good ideas
artsfan thanked Patricia Colwell Consulting
artsfan
Original Author
3 years ago
last modified: 3 years ago
Can’t find my face plant emoji @Patricia Colwell Consulting but discreet track lighting might be just the ticket. Why didn’t I think of it haha? Thanks! What I have been wondering about is bringing the wiring along the ceiling from the wall to the fixture in one of these paintable things (see below), since I was getting excited about a fireworks or dandelion light fixture with my MCM stuff. Maybe I can put one of those elsewhere and use track lighting over the dining table.
PRO
BeverlyFLADeziner
3 years ago
I'm guessing your concrete ceilings are the precast type often used in condos. You also have the option to add furring strips, install a layer of 1/4" drywall and run all your wiring in the space between the concrete and the drywall.
artsfan thanked BeverlyFLADeziner
artsfan
Original Author
3 years ago
That makes sense and would look elegant but sounds like a big job! The room is 28 x 12.
PRO
BeverlyFLADeziner
3 years ago
How long are you planning to live there? It will increase the value of your home.
artsfan thanked BeverlyFLADeziner
ashtonchic
3 years ago
I think it's worth getting an estimate on installing the lighting and drywall before you decide.
artsfan
Original Author
3 years ago
last modified: 3 years ago
@BeverlyFLADeziner we are empty nesters. Not in it for the resale value! @ashtonchic and @BeverlyFLADeziner if I were to tell DH I want to have the whole ceiling re drywalled for the sake of one chandelier he would be incredulous at best! @cawaps and @Patricia Colwell Consulting I am going withthe cable lighting. Really pretty! Thanks!.

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