Copper Track Lighting

Vanessa Weber Interior Design Expert

Vanessa is a New York-based designer specializing in architectural lighting. Whether you are planning an event, want to illuminate your backyard retreat or simply need advice on what lamp to purchase for your bedroom, Vanessa will be more than happy to share her knowledge and expertise.

Updated 24/03/2021

Track lighting is a fantastic way to light a space if you want specific spots illuminated. Great for artwork, bookshelves, and office space, getting away from the flickering and headaches induced by fluorescent lighting. They are easy to install and easy to adjust and this copper track lighting is extremely attractive and stylish.

Buying Guide

Track lighting gives purpose and beauty to tall ceilings and walls that may lack sufficient task light. Modern designs call for ingenuity in providing well-lit spaces like bathrooms, corridors and kitchens. Copper track lighting lets you add a sophisticated look while creating the right amount of pleasing light where it is needed.

Ambient and accent lighting can also be generated by track lighting. Once installed, your decor can easily be updated without removing the rails. The diversity in customizing this system lets you render different types of light by changing bulbs and redirecting light.

What materials are used in making track lighting?

Track lighting is made of quality metal that is wired to accept bulbs. The metal can consist of bronze, nickel or chrome. LED and Halogen bulbs are the most common types of bulbs used. The bulb may be surrounded by the metal finished cone or glass fixtures can be added.

What type of lighting do you need?

Different spaces require custom lighting. Everything from one fixture to a row of several heads is possible, depending on the area to be serviced.

Linear - Suited for commercial or residential settings, linear track lighting has 4 to 8 foot sections for mounting multiple track heads and lights.
Rail - Rail lighting is bendable for maneuvering around a room instead of having a straight line. These rails work well in kitchens where cabinets and appliances are not evenly set.
Heads - A variety of heads give you a standard plain look with a step head, a head with rounded backing, or smaller pinhole heads that have an open back. Pinhole heads are used primarily in industrial decors. Flexible heads allow you to turn the light to different angles.
Fixed/Plug-In - Fixed track lighting is used when the area has been hard-wired for placement. Plug-in kits give you the ability to plug into an outlet without additional wiring.
Pendants - Track or rail lighting can hold multiple pendants over a kitchen island or workspace. This is a good way to add pleasing light to an otherwise dark area.

How to style with copper track lighting?

Almost any style is accepting to track lighting. Rustic styles may place linear bars in wooden ceiling beams while a contemporary bedroom may highlight an entire wall of paintings. Copper track lighting is popular in industrial style kitchens or modern minimal living spaces. Brass or bronze coatings on metal can offer a copper-type presence. These are popular in a wide assortment of decors.

How to select the right size of copper track lighting?

Track lighting comes with 3 to 6 heads per track rail. Additional rails can be added to extend the number of heads. One foot per fixture is a common rule to use when spacing heads. How many heads depends on the area that needs direct lighting. For example, when hanging above a bathroom vanity, copper track lighting with 3 lights is usually sufficient for highlighting the immediate area. If you have double sinks or a long counter, consider adding more heads.