Downlights

Downlights, or recessed lights, sit flush with the ceiling to deliver clean, focused illumination without the bulk of a surface-mounted fitting. Lyco stocks a comprehensive range covering fixed downlights, adjustable downlights, fire rated downlights, and options suited to both residential and commercial settings, all with same-day dispatch available.

Everything you need to know about downlights

Downlights are the go-to choice when you want light to do its job without drawing attention to itself. Recessed into the ceiling void, they create a smooth, uncluttered look that works equally well in a domestic kitchen, a hotel corridor, or a busy office floor.

The most important decision upfront is whether you need a fixed or adjustable fitting. Fixed downlights project light straight down, making them ideal for general ambient lighting across a room. Adjustable downlights, sometimes called tiltable or gimbal downlights, can be angled to highlight a wall, artwork, or architectural feature, giving you more flexibility in how a space feels.

Most modern downlights accept GU10 or MR16 LED lamps, with GU10 (mains voltage) being the simpler retrofit choice for most installations. If you're working on a new build or full rewire, integrated LED downlights, where the driver and light source are built in, offer a slimmer profile and longer rated life.

For installations above habitable rooms or where fire compartmentation is required, fire rated downlights are a building regulation requirement. If you're fitting to a standard ceiling and want to refresh the look of existing fittings, our downlight bezels let you update the finish without replacing the whole unit.

Lyco offers free delivery on all orders over £70, with next-working-day delivery across the UK and same-day dispatch on the vast majority of in-stock lines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size downlights do I need?

The most common cutout sizes in the UK are 70mm and 75mm, though fittings range from around 55mm up to 100mm. Always check the cutout diameter specified on the product, not just the overall bezel size. If you're replacing existing fittings, measure the hole already in your ceiling rather than the old fitting itself.

What is the difference between GU10 and MR16 downlights?

GU10 downlights run directly off mains voltage (230V) and require no transformer, making them the straightforward choice for most domestic and commercial installs. MR16 fittings run on 12V and need a driver or transformer. They're still widely used but add a component to the circuit that can fail independently of the lamp.

How many downlights do I need per room?

A practical starting point is one downlight per 1.4–1.5 square metres of floor space for general ambient lighting in a room with a standard ceiling height (2.4m). Kitchens and task areas may need more; bedrooms where softer light is preferred can often get away with fewer, supplemented by other sources.

Can downlights be used in bathrooms?

Yes, but the fitting must carry the correct IP rating for its bathroom zone. Zone 1 (directly above the bath or shower) requires a minimum of IP65; Zone 2 (within 600mm of the bath or shower) requires IP44 as a minimum. Check the product specifications carefully, or browse our residential downlights range where IP-rated options are clearly indicated.

Do you sell downlights near me?

Lyco delivers downlights to all UK mainland addresses with next-working-day delivery as standard. Orders over £70 qualify for free delivery, and same-day dispatch applies to the vast majority of in-stock products across the range.