Downlights are usually recessed lights that emit light to shine to the ground and uplights are typically mounted below furniture or artwork.
The main difference between downlights and uplights lies in the direction of the light sources, as well as their purpose.
Downlights can also be used in the kitchen as an under-counter fixture and behind a couch for ambient light, or at to highlight ground level elements, seating areas and architectural features in a home's exterior.
Uplighting refers to the use of lights that emit most of their beam outwards rather than downwards. Typically these will be mounted below a piece of art or furniture to provide indirect illumination that is attractive and flattering. Uplights can also be put in strategic locations to highlight focal points in a room such as fireplaces or windows.
Uplighting and downlighting can be used in lighting outdoor living spaces, landscape lighting, task lighting, general exterior lighting and interior lighting.Outdoor lighting is often associated with safety and security purposes, as well as highlighting garden features.
No, downlights are recessed lights that emit light to shine to the ground, often from the ceiling. On the other hand, uplights are mounted below furniture or artwork and should not be recessed. You can, however, use a combination of downlights and uplights in the same room but they will create different effects on the space. Downlights are perfect for producing wall wash in order to brighten up a room with no windows. Uplighting can be used in conjunction with mirrors or artwork to provide indirect lighting throughout a room that is both attractive and functional. Choose uplights for more specific highlighting of fixtures such as fireplaces and windows. Consider what space you want to light- choose between recessed downlights if you wish to illuminate floors rather than ceilings and walls.
Uplights are generally used to highlight focal points in a room or to complement an area with windows or another natural lighting source. Uplights can also be used in combination with downlights to achieve the same effect.
If you have a hallway that is too dark or has no natural light, consider using downlights to create general illumination. You can also use downlights in certain areas to provide space lighting below furniture like couches for ambient lighting.
Uplighting can be used in conjunction with downlighting to achieve the same effect by providing additional indirect light behind furniture or artwork.
Uplighting can also be used as an accent piece in a room to highlight focal points such as fireplaces or windows. You can also use uplighting to light artwork and mirrors for additional indirect lighting and additional depth in the space.
Walkways can benefit from uplighting to light them at night or focus the light by supplementing natural light to create greater ambience. In contrast, you can use downlights in more specific areas such as under a porch or stoop, or place well lights on the ground level to create area landscape lighting for steps or entrances, or creating shadows, as well as highlighting water features. You can also use downlights in these areas to provide area lighting fixtures below furniture for ambient lighting. Both uplighting and downlighting can be used in the home's exterior space to provide general lighting for larger spaces, vast walls and landscape beds. This gives the landscape a welcoming feel while creating shadows strategically. Exterior uplighting and downlighting also adds depth to a space.
If you have a basic understanding of wiring and electrical supplies, you can install uplights and downlights yourself. First, determine the best place in your home for the lights to serve specific purposes. You will need to choose an area with a good space and outlets and electrical features nearby so that there will be easy access to electricity.
Next, measure the height as well as measurements from wall to floor around where you want to mount the light fixtures. Depending on what style of light fixture you choose for your exterior, this may require drywall cutting or other construction work before installation.
Make sure all openings are large enough for wires and light fixtures and that nothing is blocking the light shine from reaching across the exterior space. You will want to use special wall mount brackets and features if you need to cut openings in your walls for the lights.
Finally, wire up the power supply and install the bulbs or LED units of your choice in your exterior space. The uplights and downlights should then be set into place and secured with hardware that is compatible with your wall, as well as any electrical connections used in the house if necessary.
Installing uplights and downlights in the exterior requires extra precaution to ensure safety. Best to hire a professional, which may not be expensive after all.