Both give a clean, modern ceiling — but the right choice depends on your ceiling type. Here is how to decide.
Panel lights have become the go-to choice for modern homes and offices because they give even, glare-free light and a clean ceiling. The first decision to make is the type: surface-mounted or conceal (recessed). The right answer depends mostly on your ceiling.
Conceal (recessed) panel lights
Conceal panels are installed into a false ceiling so the panel sits flush, almost flush with the surface. They give the cleanest, most built-in look — but they need a false ceiling (gypsum, POP, or similar) with space above it for the fixture.
- Best for: homes and offices that already have, or plan to install, a false ceiling
- Look: seamless and minimal, with the light blended into the ceiling
- Needs: a cut-out and clearance space above the ceiling
Surface panel lights
Surface panels mount directly onto a solid ceiling, sitting slightly proud of the surface. They require no false ceiling and no cut-out, which makes them ideal for retrofits and concrete ceilings.
- Best for: solid concrete ceilings, or upgrading existing fixtures without renovation
- Look: a slim, tidy fixture mounted on the ceiling
- Needs: only a power connection and screws — no ceiling cavity
| Conceal panel | Surface panel | |
|---|---|---|
| False ceiling required | Yes | No |
| Installation | Cut-out + recess | Mount on ceiling |
| Final look | Flush, built-in | Slim, surface-mounted |
| Ideal use | New fit-out with false ceiling | Retrofit / concrete ceiling |
Not sure if you have space above the ceiling?
If you do not have a false ceiling and do not plan to add one, choose surface panels. They deliver the same quality of light without any structural work.
Choosing wattage and tone
Whichever type you pick, match the wattage to the room (see our wattage guide) and the colour temperature to its purpose. HEAVEN LED offers both surface and conceal panels in round and square shapes, in PVC and aluminium bodies, from 3W up to 2×2 panels.
