Lighting Guide
Thoughtful lighting changes the way a room feels. This guide helps you choose proportions, plan hanging heights and combine light sources for a warm, comfortable home.
Size · Hanging height · By room · Fixture types · Light bulbs
What size light fixture should you choose?
Start by measuring the room, ceiling height and furniture beneath the fixture. Above a table, compare the fixture’s width with the tabletop; for a linear design, compare lengths as well.
One starting point suggested by Visual Comfort is a fixture approximately 12 in. (30 cm) narrower than the table. A table 44 in. (112 cm) wide, for example, provides a starting point for considering a fixture 32 in. (81 cm) wide. Try this proportion in your space and adjust for the design’s silhouette. Source: Visual Comfort sizing guide.
Before ordering, mark out the volume with painter’s tape or a cardboard template. View it from the doorway and while seated. A solid shade and an open frame of the same width can have very different visual weight.
Shop chandeliers → · Explore linear lighting →
How high should you hang a light fixture?
Above a table or island, approximately 30–36 in. (76–91 cm) between the surface and the bottom of the fixture is a common starting point. Adjust for ceiling height, sightlines and the manufacturer’s instructions. Source: Visual Comfort placement guide.
↕ 30–36 in. / 76–91 cm
Measure the complete installed height, including the fixture body, rods or chain and canopy. Check minimum and maximum hanging heights, along with sloped-ceiling compatibility when needed. The above-table guideline does not apply to a walkway, where appropriate clearance is essential.
How many pendants should you use over an island?
The number depends on the island’s length and the diameter of your pendants. Space templates evenly and check the gaps between shades, at the ends of the island and across your sightlines. Two large pendants create a different effect from three smaller ones; compare the volumes before deciding.
How should you light each room?
Plan around three functions: general light for moving through the room, directed light for an activity and accent light for atmosphere.
| Room | Suggested combination |
|---|---|
| Dining room | A chandelier above the table, complemented by a lamp on a sideboard or wall sconces. |
| Living room | General lighting, a lamp beside a reading chair and accent lighting on a console. |
| Bedroom | A flush or semi-flush mount, with bedside lamps or sconces for reading. |
| Kitchen | Pendants over the island, complemented by lighting suited to work surfaces. |
| Bathroom | Light near the mirror and general lighting; choose fixtures rated for the location and moisture exposure. |
Which type of fixture suits your space?
- Chandeliers: decorative presence and, depending on the design, several light sources.
- Pendants: bring light over a surface or define an area.
- Flush mounts: a profile close to the ceiling.
- Semi-flush mounts: a visible gap between ceiling and fixture.
- Wall sconces: complementary lighting without occupying furniture or floor space.
- Table lamps and floor lamps: localised light where you need it.
For specific needs, explore picture lights, bathroom lighting and outdoor lighting.
Kelvins, lumens and dimmers: what should you check?
Lumens indicate light output. Kelvins describe its colour: around 2,700 K is warm, while 3,000 K is slightly less golden and still warm. Watts indicate electrical power consumption. Source: U.S. Department of Energy light bulb guide.
Check the base, bulb size and maximum wattage specified for your fixture. For an integrated LED fixture, consult its own specifications. A dimmer must be compatible with both the fixture and its light source; not all LED bulbs are dimmable.
Before finalising your choice
- Fixture dimensions and complete installed height.
- Furniture dimensions and clearance around the fixture.
- Location rating: dry, damp or wet, as specified for the model.
- Bulbs, dimming compatibility and connection type.
- Availability and lead time shown for your chosen product.
These are decorating guidelines. For hardwired fixtures, have a qualified electrician confirm the installation and clearances against the manufacturer’s instructions.