The Outdated Light Fixture That's Making A Stylish Comeback

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

If you spend enough time scouring design websites, magazines, and blogs, you'll notice that customers and interior designers often bemoan the presence of boob lights. The colloquial (and lightly mocking) nickname refers to a flush mount ceiling light defined by its dome shape and central finial screw. In 2021, for instance, the lighting company Mitzi ran a cheeky promotional campaign encouraging customers to ditch their outdated fixtures.

Surprisingly, in the years since, the flush mount dome light has been making a notable resurgence. And this time, as if winking at all the criticisms, these stylish light fixtures sport updated designs that embrace modernity and innovation. The ubiquity of boob lights is easily explained: they are extremely affordable, with some models selling for as little as $15. Originating in the 1890s, the features we associate with them today — frosted glass shade, finial, brass or nickel trim — were standardized in 1910.

In the past, if you wanted to make your dreaded flush mount dome light look stunning, products like Tulip Shade covers and other conversion kits offered DIY methods for adding a dose of style to your ceiling fixtures. Nowadays, flush and semi-flush mount lights come in a wide range of designs far beyond the basic frosted dome found in so many entryways and bedrooms. From incorporating linen and rattan to experimenting with cylindrical or abstract shapes, these newer light fixtures are anything but dreary and basic. If you're trying to choose the perfect lighting for your space, flush mounts might be just what you need. 

Another reason landlords and builders flock to the flush mount dome light is that they are the best light for low ceiling areas. Since it is attached directly to the ceiling, you don't have to worry about the fixture getting in the way and obstructing headspace, as with chandeliers and pendants. While the functionality of flush mount lights makes perfect sense, that doesn't mean you can't get creative with the design. Designer Eddie Maestri turned to rhombus-shaped flush mount lights for his Lakewood renovation project, installing six fixtures over the kitchen island. The unusual shape melded well with the home's gothic flourishes, while giving off a vintage vibe.

Lulu and Georgia have a range of flush mount light fixtures that take cues from classic to sculptural silhouettes. Their Sello flush mount light, a collaboration with Disc Interiors, recalls the infamous shape of the original, but swaps out the glass shade for structured linen with dark bronze hardware. Other designs mimic the folds of billowing drapes and the weave of a rattan basket. 

Semi-flush mount lights can also offer a dash of drama and opulence. These fixtures are not affixed directly to the ceiling, and instead hang from a short stem. If you want to add a sense of dimension to your space without going into full-on chandelier territory, semi-flush mounts are a must. Finally, if you're looking for flush mount ideas that stay within budget, consider unfussy, minimalist designs. Aiwen's flush mount farmhouse at Home Depot combines a sleek black metal frame with clear glass, and could be the perfect match for those on the hunt for fixtures with a contemporary twist.