Picking the right LED panel light depends on the size of the room, the ceiling height and how bright you want the space to feel. This guide from Dr. Light walks through a simple, practical way to plan panel lighting for homes, offices and shops — without the guesswork.
- Plan by room size and use — bigger or task-heavy spaces need more total light, spread across more fixtures.
- Match the panel format (round, square, 2×2) to your ceiling and mounting type.
- Choose Cool White for work areas and Warm White for relaxed spaces.
- Spread several panels evenly instead of relying on one bright fixture.
1. Start with the room size and how it is used
As a general planning rule, larger rooms and work areas need more total light spread across more fixtures, while compact rooms can use a single panel. For task-heavy spaces such as offices and kitchens, plan for brighter, evenly distributed light; for living rooms and bedrooms, a softer level is usually preferred.
2. Match the panel to the fixture format
Dr. Light offers round and square panels in a range of sizes. Smaller panels suit accent and corridor lighting, while larger square panels such as the 2×2 format are popular for office and retail ceilings. Browse the full range on the LED Panel Lights page.

3. Choose the colour temperature
Panels are available in Cool White (CW) for bright, neutral-to-crisp light and Warm White (WW) for a softer, cosier tone. Offices and shops often choose Cool White; homes frequently prefer Warm White in living areas. Not sure which? Read our Cool White vs Warm White guide.
4. Plan the layout
Spread multiple panels evenly rather than relying on one bright fixture. This reduces glare and shadows and gives a more comfortable, uniform result.
Quick reference by room
| Room | Suggested approach | Typical colour |
|---|---|---|
| Office / shop | Multiple panels, bright and even | Cool White |
| Kitchen | Bright, well-distributed task light | Cool White |
| Living room | Softer, layered light | Warm White |
| Bedroom | Gentle, lower level | Warm White |
| Corridor | Single small panel / accent | Cool or Warm |

Popular Dr. Light panel models
Compare models such as PL5, PL7, PLJ1 and SPL3 to find the size and format that fits your ceiling. See current options and pricing on the panel lights category.
Frequently asked questions
How many panels do I need for a room?
Rather than one bright fixture, plan several panels spread evenly across the ceiling. Bigger and task-heavy rooms need more fixtures for comfortable, shadow-free light.
Round or square panels — does it matter?
Both give similar light; the choice is mostly about your ceiling and look. Square 2×2 panels suit grid/false ceilings, while round panels are common in homes and corridors.
Cool White or Warm White for panels?
Cool White suits offices, kitchens and shops; Warm White suits living rooms and bedrooms. Many Dr. Light panels are available in both.
Ready to plan your panel lighting?
Browse the full Dr. Light LED panel range, or message us for a quick recommendation for your room.
Dr. Light is an LED lighting brand manufactured by Bigapple.

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