Choose the Right Fixture
for Your Room
Explore our guides to find the fixture that suits your space, style, and lighting needs with confidence.
Kitchen
Kitchen Island
Pendants
- For comfortable lighting and clear sightlines, install pendants 30"–36" above the island surface.
- When using multiple fixtures, space each pendant at 24"-30" apart (edge to edge) to allow for proper airflow, balanced light, and an uncluttered look. Keep each fixture 6"-12" from the edge of the island.
- To determine how many pendants your island can support, aim for the combined diameter of all fixtures to equal one-third to one-half of the island’s total length.
Kitchen Island
Linear Chandeliers
- Proportion is key when selecting a linear light. Choose a fixture that measures one-half to two-thirds the length of your island.
- For extra-long surfaces, a pair of linear fixtures can provide better balance and coverage.
- Hang the fixture so the bottom sits 30"-36" above the surface and allow 6"-12" of space on each end between the fixture and the edge of the island. This spacing helps the light feel well placed and gives the design room to breathe.
Round Table or Breakfast Nook
Chandeliers & Pendants
- Select a fixture with a diameter one-half to two-thirds the width of the table.
- Hang the light 30"–36" above the tabletop to create comfortable illumination without glare. Pendants and mini chandeliers both work well in these intimate dining spaces.
Dining Room
Dining Table
Chandeliers & Pendants
- Position the bottom of the fixture 30"–36" above the table surface for balanced light and easy conversation.
- Allow 6"-12" of clearance between the fixture and each end of the table and always center the light over the table rather than the room.
- For linear chandeliers, select a fixture that measures one-half to two-thirds the length of the table.
Entry & Living Room
Accent Lighting
Wall Sconces
- Mount sconces at eye level, typically 60"–65" from the floor to the center of the fixture.
- When installing multiple sconces, space them 6'–8' apart for standard ceiling heights, or 8'–10' apart in rooms with higher ceilings to ensure even light distribution.
- When flanking a mantel, mirror, or artwork, place sconces symmetrically and equidistant from the center for a composed, intentional look.
Main Room Lighting
Ceiling Lights
- Your main room light should feel proportionate to the space, providing ample illumination without overwhelming the room or fading into the background.
- Fixture diameter: Add the room’s length and width (in feet) and convert that number to inches to estimate an ideal fixture diameter.
- For example, a 12' × 12' room pairs well with a 24" fixture.
- Hanging height: For chandeliers or large pendants, ensure the bottom of the fixture hangs at least 7’ above the floor. In rooms with taller ceilings, 8’–10’ can work well, provided the fixture delivers adequate light. As a general guideline, aim for approximately 2” of fixture height for every foot of ceiling height. For a 10' ceiling, a fixture measuring 18”–20” inches tall maintains comfortable scale.
- If ceiling height or clearance is limited, opt for a flush mount or low-profile design. In hallways and foyers, keep the bottom of any pendant or chandelier at least 6" above door frames.
Bathroom
Either Side of the Mirror
Wall Sconces & Bath Bars
- For even, flattering light, mount sconces just above eye level, typically 60"–65" from the floor to the center of the backplate.
- For balanced illumination and reduced shadows, space fixtures 36"–40" apart or position each sconce 2"–4" from the edge of the mirror.
- Because eye level varies, small adjustments may be needed for comfort.
Above the Mirror
Vanity Lights & Bath Bars
- When installed above the mirror, choose a linear fixture that measures at least three-quarters of the width of the mirror, without extending beyond its edges.
- For larger mirrors, two evenly spaced fixtures can provide better coverage.
- Mount the light 75"–80" from the floor for a standard mirror. For taller mirrors, position the fixture 5"–10" above the top edge.
Bedroom
Bedside
Wall Sconces
- When installing sconces beside the bed, place the center of each fixture 55"–60" from the floor, aligning roughly with eye level when seated on the bed.
- Position sconces 6"–12" from the edge of the headboard or mattress for comfortable, focused light.
- If the sconce includes a switch, install it where it can be easily reached from bed.
Outdoor
Front Door
Wall Lanterns
- Mount outdoor wall lights at eye level, typically 60"-65" from the ground and 6"-12" from the door trim to allow for clearance while visually framing the entry.
- For a single lantern, install the fixture on the same side as the door handle to clearly see visitors when opening the door. Choose a fixture that measures about one-third the height of the door.
- For double lanterns, place fixtures evenly on both sides of the door and select sizes that measure at least one-quarter of the door’s height.
Garage Door
Wall Lanterns
- When installing wall lights next to garage doors, center the fixture 66"–72" above the ground for proper scale and visibility. Install each fixture at least 6"-18" from the door frame.
- For balanced proportions, select lights measuring one-quarter to one-third the height of the garage door.
Finding the Right Size
Finding the right scale for your lighting should feel as natural as the light itself. To help you choose with ease,
we have gathered a few thoughtful ways to find the perfect fit for your home.