Hello, this is DIY Renova.
In this article, we will introduce "ceiling and wall lamps that are easy to use as clients for new construction or renovations" in an easy-to-understand manner from the perspective of a Japanese home. It covers everything from famous brands to value-effective brands, based on the worldview of Japanese-style, Chinese (Asian), American, European (including Scandinavian). Furthermore, we have compiled the minimum rules that Japan should follow (handling electrical work, PSE, etc.), points that tend to fail, and checklists that are useful in practical work.

We will answer questions carefully from the perspective of the resident, such as "Which manufacturer should I choose?", "Can I replace it with a hook ceiling?" and "I want to use a duct rail to make it look like a cafe."

So, here you go.

How to use this article

• Start by "List of recommended manufacturers by worldview and taste," we will first solidify our preferred direction.
• Next, we will look for model numbers that are easy to obtain for the same taste in "Utilizing classic Japanese manufacturers."
• Check the actual installation conditions in "How to choose a room" and "Notes on each installation method."
• Finally, we will use the "Example of the Client's Delivery Workflow" and "Checklist" to prevent misses from falling out from ordering, delivery, and installation.

Minimum rules to be maintained (assumed in Japan)

For "construction directly connected to a power source," you will need to be a licensed electrician. Replacing a device that simply "inserts" into a ceiling ceiling fixture is often treated as a minor task, but replacing wiring, direct attachment, and new downlights is required to be installed by a qualified person. The basic way to choose equipment is to have the "PSE mark" (compliant with the Electrical Appliances and Materials Safety Act). When introducing imported or handmade products, always match "electrical safety" and "legality of installation methods" with the design and installation team in advance.

You also need to check the sharing of the warranty. It is safe to keep the scope of responsibility in consultation minutes or email, such as ``initial defects in the fixture'' for manufacturers and dealers, and ``defects after installation (loosening, falling, defects in wall wiring, etc.) for the installation...

The Basics of Light (Even amateurs only here)

The appearance of the equipment is not just the way it affects the living space. If you keep following, your satisfaction will change dramatically.

• Color temperature (K Kelvin)
  "2700K-3000K" is warm and has a relaxing feel. "4000K" is a white in the middle, and "5000K-6500K" is a white in the right place for work. It is easy to use "2700K-3000K" for dining and bedrooms, and "4000K-5000K" for study and housework rooms.
• Color rendering (Ra/CRI)
  The higher the number, the more natural the ingredients and skin color will look. If you choose "Ra90 or higher", the food and wood grain will look beautiful.
• Total luminous flux (lm lumen) and beam angle
  To illuminate the entire room, use "total lumens"; if you want to hit the display shelf at the spot, use "narrow beam angle." With a pendant, the brightness of the room can be changed depending on whether it is a material that diffuses light (glass/cloth) or a metal shade that concentrates downwards.
• Dimming and color adjustment compatibility
  Even dimmable light bulbs and fixtures may cause a flicker if they do not match the "wall dimming switch method (phase control leading edge/trail edge)." When dimming, it is essential to check the compatibility of the three-piece set: "fixtures, light bulbs, and dimmers."
• Base and installation method
  If you are using a replacement bulb, check the socket sizes for the "E26" and "E17". Installation can be done by either "hook ceiling (round, square, embedded rosette),", "duct rail", or "direct installation (requires electrical work)." Be sure to check the alignment of load capacity and equipment weight.
• Moisture-proof and rainproof (bathroom and outdoor)
  Check that the washbasin and bathroom are moisture-proof (IP grade, etc.). Outdoors are conscious of both rain and dust prevention, and rust prevention (materials and paint).
• Insulation compatible (downlight)
  For homes with insulation ceilings, choose downlights that are "high airtight and insulation compatible." It is strictly prohibited to make non-compatible devices close to insulation.

Recommended manufacturers and how to choose by world view and taste

Below are some selections that emphasize "easy to provide clients" and "a lot of experience in housing." Prices vary depending on model number and campaign, so please consider them as a guideline.

Japanese style (Japanese modern, pure Japanese-style room)

• KOIZUMI Lighting
  A wide variety of wooden frames and Japanese paper-style shades. It is easy to accommodate Japanese-style rooms to Japanese-modern LDKs, and there are many products that can be used for hook-and-ceiling.

• ODELIC
  It's easy to find both a shoji lattice style, woody style such as cypress and ash, and a refreshing, modern Japanese-style modern style. There are also many light and color adjustment models.

• Panasonic
  From inn tastes to minimal Japanese modern. The classic thin ceiling fits in with high-quality Japanese spaces.

• Pottery/handicrafts (Ceramic shades from Kutani, Arita, etc.)
  A unique texture. Be sure to check the weight, base, and PSE handling in advance. Carefully discuss with the construction team.

The lamp made from Kasokeki lamp's frameless washi paper is also very cute!

If you are interested in the proof that it has been carefully crafted without any frames, please take a look below.

"Consideration Notes"
The Japanese paper-style light makes the ceiling and walls softer and brighter. When the shadows of the wooden frame fall on the tatami or wall, the night looks high quality. If you are focused on the color of your diet, choose a light bulb with high color rendering (Ra90 or higher recommended).

Chinese/Asian (wicker, bamboo, cloth, lantern)

• DI CLASSE
  Warm shading with rattan, bamboo and cloth shades. Many models are lightweight and have hook-mounted ceiling mounting, making it easy to install.

• IKEA
  Paper lantern or bamboo style. An adapter may be required to make a domestic hook-up.

"Consideration Notes"
Materials that have strong shading tend to lack overall illumination. If you use it in conjunction with downlights or indirect lighting to ensure a base of illumination and then use Asian as an "atmosphere frame", there are fewer mistakes.

American (Country Industrial)

• ART WORK STUDIO (Artwork Studio)
  He specializes in glass and metal shades from Brooklyn, Garage and Schoolhouse. It goes well with rail lighting.

• INTERFORM
  A lineup that stands out with brass hardware + clear/frosted glass and Edison LED.

"Consideration Notes"
The Edison LED has a great atmosphere, but the light flux is small and it may feel dark, so it is assumed that it can be used in conjunction with multiple lights or auxiliary lighting. The kitchen top is easy to use with a white color and high color rendering.

European (Northern European, Italian, Classic)

• Louis Poulsen (Denmark)
  PH5, Toldbod, and other classic Nordic paths. Add one item to the dining room to create space.
• FLOS (Italy), Artemide (Italy)
  There are many sculptured and minimalist masterpieces. A direct-mounted model is also available for Japanese apartments (including cases where electrical work is required).

• Yamagiwa
  Officially handled overseas + our own products. It ranges from chandeliers to modern.

"Consideration Notes"
For expensive design lighting, it is easier to balance costs and effects by placing "pinpointed in an iconic position" than "one main light." In Scandinavian countries, the warm and high color rendering of around 2700K makes the wood grain beautiful.

Modern Minimal (Hotel-like)

• Panasonic
  There are a wide range of units for thin ceilings, dimming and color adjustment, and indirect lighting.
• ODELIC
  There are a wide range of downlight options, and the specifications are clear, including light distribution, height of fixtures, and insulation.
• DAIKO Electric
  It is resistant to production lighting and is easy to design base lighting and accents.
• Herman Miller Nelson Bubble Lamp
  • That manufacturer is famous for its working chairs! In fact, we also sell stylish modern lamps.

"Consideration Notes"
Modernist orientation is more about showing the face than "lighting it with a face." Without showing any light sources, the space feels spacious when the walls and ceiling are brightened (vertical illumination will work in the lighting plan). Indirect lighting causes uneven installation errors in light, so make sure to draw the fixture length and installation clearance.

Industrial Cafe

• ART WORK STUDIO/INTERFORM
  Bar lights, spots, mesh shades, etc. The advantage is that you can adjust the position and orientation later on using the duct rail.

• ODELIC/DAIKO Rail Spot
  Aligning the light distribution angle, light color, and fixture color (white and black) gives a sense of unity.

"Consideration Notes"
The "lightness of the table surface" is given priority in the dining room. If you focus on pendants, you can create an atmosphere by reducing the ceiling-based lighting and creating a "maintainer of light."

Emphasis on cost performance (stylish even at around 10,000 yen)

• DI CLASSE
  It looks expensive made from natural materials. It's so cute, so if you've never seen it before, be sure to take a look at the website!
• INTERFORM
  The price balance is good for both retro and Scandinavian.
• LOWYA／Nitori／Modern Deco
  Low price range that is ready to use. Read reviews and be sure to check the weight, installation method, and base.
• IKEA
  Paper, cloth and bamboo style create an atmosphere. Pre-check to meet domestic installation methods.

"Consideration Notes"
The cheaper the fixture, the more you can see the difference simply by "supporting the light bulb for a better one." Increase the texture with filament LEDs of Ra90 or higher and warm colors of 2700K and 3000K.

How to make use of Japanese classic manufacturers (has a strong housing experience)

• KOIZUMI Lighting
  The catalog structure of the homes is easy to understand, with a thick layer of Japanese, Scandinavian and natural. Many sales channels are easy to obtain even when provided by the client.
• ODELIC
  It has a wide range of downlights, spots and indirect lighting components, making it easy to plan. The equipment height and insulation compatibility are also clearly stated, making it easy to respond on site.
• Panasonic
  Equipped with a balanced balance of high color rendering, high efficiency, and dimming color adjustment. The thin surface-emitting ceiling is also popular in rental renovations.
• DAIKO Electric
  It is resistant to "active" lights, such as production lighting, high color rendering, and narrow-angle spots.
• Yamada Shomei
  A solid choice of brackets and base lighting. Many use hotels and offices are available, making it safe for long-term use.
• Yamagiwa
  The strength is the official distribution of overseas masterpieces. There is a high sense of security in terms of warranty and maintenance.

How to choose a room by room (practical guideline)

dining

• Priority is to ensure the illumination of the table surface from 2700K to 3000K, Ra90 or higher.
• The diameter, height and number of pendants are selected according to the table size (generally, the diameter is approximately 1/3 to 1/2 of the table width, and approximately 70 to 80 cm from the floor to the bottom of the shade).
• Glass is diffused, and metal is concentrated downward. Frosted glass and interior paint are also effective to prevent glare.

Living room

• Indirect lighting and multiple lights disperse to "brighten the surface." The TV surface avoids glare and makes your eyes less tired when you light the back softly.
• If you cannot use one ceiling light, combine stands, brackets, and spots to create a "scene."

kitchen

• The hands are 4000K-5000K, with a Ra90 or higher, and are in a position where no shadows are created.
• The area around the range hood is made of oil-resistant and heat-resistant material and finish. The glass is cleanable.

Bedroom

• A shade that is around 2700K and is light-blocking and diffusing to avoid glare.
• The position of the wall switch and the operability of the bedside (dimming/night light) are designed in advance.

Children's room

• The homework space is high in color rendering and white. It would be ideal to switch to warm colors before going to bed.
• The switch height, string switch safety, and preventing it from falling in the event of an earthquake are also taken into consideration.

Entrance and hallway

• Human sensors are convenient because they can adjust the lighting time, sensitivity, and delay.
• If you create a picture or niche on the wall as a spot, it will give you a better impression when you visit.

Washroom, bathroom, outdoor

• Moisture, water-proof, and rainproof specifications are confirmed. It is difficult to see shadows in front of the mirror if you touch it from the side of your face.
• Outdoors are being treated with consideration for UV rays, salt damage and rust (materials, paint, gaskets).

Notes on different construction methods (for fall prevention and guarantee)

Hook ceiling (easiest)

• Check the type of round, square, and embedded rosette and the compatibility of the equipment.
• Check to see if the equipment weight exceeds the load capacity (especially glass and metal shades).
• For pendants that require length adjustment, choose the "safe length adjustment method" that uses a cord reel or binding device in addition to the use of a ties.

Duct rail (highly movable and expandable)

• Installation is often carried out by direct installation work, so an electrician asks you to install it.
• Pay attention to the total wattage and rail capacity of the equipment. Place it in a balanced manner, not one side of concentration.

Directly mounted/downlight (newly installed/relocated)

• Corresponding to the inside wall and ceiling wiring, insulation materials, and airtight specifications is required.
• Be sure to select "insulating" downlights. It is not recommended to maintain a distance from insulation materials.
• The replacement method during maintenance (outer diameter, hole diameter, durability of ceiling finishing material) is also planned in advance.

How to recommend clients' payments (workflow and documents)

Time series flow

1. Concept decision (worldview, color temperature, color rendering policy)
2. Confirm drawings and installation method (hook/duct rail/direct attachment)
3. Candidate manufacturer/model number (quantity, delivery time, weight, base)
4. Pre-approval for the construction side (sharing specifications, drawings, weight and fixing method)
5. Order (simultaneous arrangements of light bulbs, mounting brackets, and adapters including spares)
6. Delivery and inspection (confirmation of damage, missing items, initial lighting)
7. Installation and adjustment (final checking height, direction and light distribution, checking compatibility of the dimmer)
8. Delivery (stores warranty card, instruction manual, and model number list together)

A list of items that will please the site

• Equipment body (retain the model number label on the box)
• Mounting brackets, screws, anchors (Is it a standard that matches the base material?)
• Light bulb (unified base, watts, light color and color rendering, and spares)
• Conversion adapter/extension cord (only if necessary)
• Copy of specifications and approval drawings (A4 is sufficient)

Price and delivery time concept

• It is not uncommon for foreign masterpieces to lead times for weeks to months. Having domestic alternatives at the same time reduces construction risk.
• It is easy to decide on a shortage of models if you allow different diameters and colors of the same design.

Points that can often fail and workarounds

• "It's dark and focused on atmosphere."
  The base illumination is insufficient. Brighten the surface with downlights and indirect lighting, then create an atmosphere with a pendant.
• "It's so dazzling that it's tiring"
  Clear glass + high output makes it dazzling when viewed directly. Frosted glass, interior paint on the shade, and light-dimmering are alleviated.
• "The dimming is flickering"
  Light bulbs, fixtures and dimmers are incompatible. It's safer to check the manufacturer's compatibility table and get it from the same manufacturer.
• "Excessive mounting load"
  Check the ceiling base structure and type of screws in advance. Reinforce heavy equipment.
• "Agreement of imported goods is unknown"
  Check the PSE, voltage specifications, installation method, and parts procurement during maintenance. You can rest assured that you can go through an authorized dealer.

Manufacturer list (easy to remember in order of ease of delivery to clients)

Domestic and residential standard

• KOIZUMI Lighting
• ODELIC
• Panasonic
• DAIKO Electric
• Yamada Shomei
• Yamagiwa

Design and overseas masterpieces (regular distribution is safe)

• Louis Poulsen (Denmark)
• FLOS (Italy)
• Artemide (Italy)
• Herman Miller/Nelson Bubble Lamp/USA

Cost-performance and availability

• DI CLASSE
• INTERFORM
• ART WORK STUDIO (Artwork Studio)
• LOWYA/Nitori/Modern Deco/IKEA

"How to fill in model numbers" template even beginners won't get lost

1. Worldview (e.g. "Japanese modern" and "Northern European natural")
2. Light quality (color temperature: 2700K/3000K, color rendering: Ra90 or higher)
3. Installation method (hook/duct rail/direct attachment)
4. Size (diameter Φ, instrument height H, cord length)
5. Weight (does it match the load capacity of the ceiling undercoat)
6. Light bulb (E26/E17 base, bulb sold separately or included)
7. Dimming (compatibility with wall switch, method)
8. Installation height (pendant falls from the table surface)
9. Quantity (Bulbs including spares are also arranged)
10. Delivery time (alternatives and color change available)

If you print this into a "checklist PDF", the meeting will be completed in just a few minutes.

Frequently asked questions (short and short)

• How tall is the pendant?
  The dining area is approximately 70 to 80cm from the table top to the bottom of the shade. If it's a high ceiling, lowering it a little will give you a good balance.
• Can you add a spot to the duct rail later?
  I can add it. Check the total capacity, the lock mechanism to prevent dropping, and the light distribution balance.
• Edison LED is dark...
  The measures are taken in the following order: replacing a model with a larger luminous flux, increasing the number of units, and using base lighting together.
• Which light should I buy?
  It is safe to assemble fixtures, light bulbs, and wall switches with the "combinations listed in the compatibility chart" of the same manufacturer.
• I want to include only one imported masterpiece
  It can be used as a "symbolic location" such as dining rooms and entrance halls. The reality is that the rest is that it is standard in Japan and costs are adjusted.

Summary (The lights of your home are determined by "atmosphere x basis")

The world view is selected from "Japanese, Asian, American, European, Modern, Industrial," and the equipment is a classic Japanese manufacturer that is solid, or one masterpiece. By understanding the basics of light (color temperature, color rendering, light distribution) and the premise of installation (installation method, insulation compatibility, PSE), you can achieve both appearance and safety. The client's payments are made by "early obtaining approval," "sharing specifications," and "backing up delivery dates." Use this article as a template to welcome the light that suits your home in a pleasant way.

Appendix: Client payment checklist (for copy and paste)

• Concept: "Japanese modern/Northern European/American/Modern/Industrial"
• Room: Dining/Living Room/Kitchen/Bedroom/Children's Room/Entrance/Washbasin/Outdoor
• Installation method: hook-down ceiling/duct rail (construction required)/direct installation (construction required)
• Equipment: Manufacturer (Japanese name + English name), model number, color
• Bulb: Base E26/E17, Light color 2700K, 3000K, 4000K, 5000K, Color rendering Ra, Number (including spares)
• Dimming: Yes/No, method (lead/trailed edge), and confirmation of correspondence table
• Size: Diameter Φ, Equipment height H, Cord length (adjustment method)
• Weight: kg (Ceiling base and load capacity OK)
• Moisture-proof and rainproof: Necessary/needed (washbath, bathroom, outdoor)
• Insulation compatible (downlight): Necessary/needed
• Delivery time: Normal delivery time, alternatives (different colors and different diameters)
• Documents: Specifications, approval drawings, warranty cards, instruction manual copy
• Accessories: Mounting brackets, screws, anchors, adapters
• Role division: Defective equipment = Dealer/Defective construction = Construction side (according to by email)

Reference (Entrance to Respect and Learning)

• Residential catalogs of domestic lighting companies (Koizumi Lighting / ODELIC / Panasonic / Daiko Electric / Yamada Lighting)
• Officially imported masterpiece lighting (Yamagiwa)
• Representative works of Scandinavian Design (Lewis Paulsen)
• Explanation of lighting plans for housing (specialized residential and lighting magazines, technical guides for each company)
• Guide to the Electrical Appliances and Materials Safety Act (PSE) (Japanese public documents)
• Basics of dimming and color adjustment for homes (compatibility charts and technical documents for each manufacturer)

Now, let's choose a good light.
I would be happy if this article could serve as a "focus on which you can choose without hesitation."

If you're wondering "How much renovation or remodeling can I actually do on my own home?" or "Where should I even start?", please visit this page. If you're looking to learn more about specific renovation processes or construction details, don't miss this page as well!