Really need to know whether you want recessed lights, surface mounted lights or suspended. The range is huge.

I like recessed downlights, preferrably gimbles so you can direct them where you want. Don't insall them too close together or you will get an insanely bright room.

Downlights are probably the most popular type of light but most people ignore the basics:

- Ensure that indoors in most rooms you get warm white

- Ensure you get dimmable downlights and get dimmers

- Make sure you don't have too much shadow in the room

- Get adjustable downlights so you can illuminate points of interest

If you have a low ceiling, which most placs do these days, make sure you get recessed lights.

Putting 3 pendant in a row - particularly above a kicten island or large doining room - works really well.

I have LED strips installed around my ceiling, works beautifully. Provides very subtle diffuse lighting as well.

Consider a chandelier for a big room - will provide beautiful lighting and if you choose the right one, will be a major talking piece!

Ceiling spotlights are now very in and extremely cheap. They are particularly good if you don't have a ceiling cavity you can get into.

Agree! Spotlights are also great in the kitchen above the bench and islands.

In terms of material for ceiling lights, consider using diffuse glass - it is a great material and provdies excellent diffuse lighting. There are some pendants that are made from spectacular hand made glass.

If your ceiling is white I would suggest copper downlights or spotlights. The contrast between metal and white looks great!