Lighting and light fittings

[Fernyfloor]

We're going to have to get the house rewired. Seems a good time to fix the lighting so it looks nice.

In our lounge, kitchen and hall we have loads of downlights. I can't stand them in the lounge and hall and I'll instead get a central light fitting. It will mean re-plastering the ceiling but I think it will look so much better.

Any suggestions for a nice light fitting for these rooms. They're both large, hall is 6x4m lounge is 7x5m. In the hall I would really love something a bit special but we're also going to be skint by then. In the lounge we usually have lamps on to give more subtle lighting so 'the big light' would only be used if one of us was working in there. So it needs to be bright.

The kitchen could keep the downlighters but I'm worried about the electrician's getting access for the rewire. There are currently 32 downlighters in a 5x7m kitchen! It will probably be easier just to replace with several light fittings. Again any suggestions?

What sort of style or you looking for? Ultra modern? Traditional? What colour? What price range?

I'd keep some but all the downlighters in the kitchen but ensure they're LED and on a dimmer - this will give you full light when cooking and allows a more subtle look when entertaining.
I'd invest in a nice looking fitting for the hallway (next normally do some decent ones) but also a couple of lamps ( lamps for subtle lighting throughout the evenings and the main fitting for when needed).
For the lounge - get something that provides bright lighting. As you already use lamps in there, you'll only want it on when needed. Something simple, doesn't need to be expensive. Dunelm and the range have plenty.
If you requiring your whole house, think about light switches by your bed.

We're in the process of buying a house which needs doing up. I've been looking on FB marketplace for lights, bought a nice one for the dining area today for £40, seller paid £140 for it on Wayfair! Picking up a lounge light tomorrow for £30. Bargains galore!

Key dimension you haven't mentioned is what is your ceiling height? - this makes a massive difference to what kind of lighting is appropriate.
I use Castlegatelights.co.uk for clients, good selection, quality and customer service.
Dunelm aren't bad for the cheaper end of the market but I tend to find their lights a bit on the small side for large rooms.
Sometimes a simple pendant light fitting fitted by an electrician (cheap) topped with an amazing shade will do wonders for a room. I've used these to great effect www.smartdecostyle.com/collections/smartylamps - lovely warm light, modern and can come in large sizes for bigger rooms / head heights or smaller if necessary

We got LEDs. Make sure you have a dimmer with them. They are awfully bright.