Lighting Placement:
How to Light Every Room
Lighting can transform a space—when done right, it enhances the atmosphere, sets the mood, and makes every room feel polished and inviting. But get it wrong, and suddenly your cozy living room feels like a hospital waiting area, or your workspace is so dim you might as well be working by candlelight.
A few simple lighting guidelines can help you avoid common pitfalls and create a space that’s both functional and beautiful.
The Right Light for Every Space
Every room has its own lighting needs, and small adjustments can make a big difference.
Whether you’re selecting a statement chandelier, setting up bedside lamps, or making sure your desk lighting actually lights up your work, placement is just as important as the fixture itself.
Ceiling Fixtures: Finding the Perfect Size
A ceiling fixture should be the right size for the room—not so big that it overwhelms the space, and not so small that it looks like an afterthought. Properly sized lighting keeps a space feeling balanced and well-proportioned.
A quick trick:
Measure the room’s width in feet, double that number, and use it as the fixture’s diameter in inches.
Example: A 10-foot-wide room? Your light fixture should be around 20 inches in diameter for the best balance.
But remember, this rule works best for general ambient lighting. In rooms where task lighting is crucial—like a kitchen or office—you may need to layer in additional lighting, such as pendant lights over an island or desk lamps for focused brightness.
Chandeliers: Statement Pieces, Not Hazards
A chandelier should be the perfect finishing touch, not an obstacle course. Whether it’s in a dining room, foyer, or bedroom, placement and proportion make all the difference.
Dining Room Chandeliers:
Hang the chandelier 30 to 34 inches above the table to balance ambiance and functionality—elegant, not blinding.
Higher ceilings? Adjust accordingly. For every extra foot above 8 feet, raise the chandelier by 3 inches to keep it proportional to the space.
Entryway Chandeliers:
In foyers and entryways, chandeliers set the tone for the home. The bottom should hang at least 7 feet above the floor to keep walkways clear.
For double-height ceilings, chandeliers should sit about two-thirds of the way up from the floor to the ceiling so they feel anchored, not lost in the space.
Bedroom Chandeliers:
Keep at least 7 feet of clearance from the floor to the fixture. If ceilings are high, a lower-hanging chandelier with soft, diffused lighting can create a cozy feel.
Chandelier Width:
Dining Table Chandeliers: Should be about half to two-thirds the width of the table.
Entryway & Living Room Chandeliers: Add the length + width of the room (in feet)—that number in inches should be roughly the chandelier’s diameter.
Table & Floor Lamps
Lamps may seem simple, but their height matters more than you think—the wrong placement can lead to harsh glare or awkward lighting angles.
Living Room Side Table Lamps: The bottom of the lampshade should be 40 to 42 inches from the floor—this ensures the light is at eye level when seated.
Bedside Lamps: The lampshade should align with the top of your shoulder when sitting up in bed, typically with a lamp base about 20 inches tall from the mattress.
Desk Lamps: Position the bottom of the shade at eye level to reduce glare and maximize focused lighting—essential for workspaces.
Floor Lamps: For reading nooks or cozy corners, floor lamps should be 58 to 64 inches high to provide soft yet effective lighting without overpowering the space.
Outdoor Lighting
Front Porch & Entryway: A well-lit entrance instantly boosts curb appeal—turn on exterior lights for evening showings or open houses.
Walkways: Bright enough for safety, soft enough to feel welcoming. Solar path lights are a great low-maintenance option.
Driveways & Paths: Keep these areas well-lit and free of shadows for a polished, inviting exterior.
Accent Lighting: Uplighting trees, shrubs, or architectural features adds warmth and depth to your outdoor space.
The Right Light Changes Everything
Lighting can make or break a space—it’s what takes a room from just looking good to feeling good. By following a few simple guidelines, you can create a well-lit home that’s both functional and inviting—whether it’s a cozy bedroom, an elegant dining area, or a welcoming entryway.
Before calling it a day, take a step back. Does the space feel warm and welcoming? Are the best features highlighted? Or is it veering into interrogation-room territory? A few small tweaks—raising a chandelier, adding a well-placed lamp, or softening the glow—can make all the difference.
At the end of the day, lighting should work for you, not against you. With the right setup, you can go from “It’s fine” to “Wow, this feels amazing!”.
