Lighting Placement:
How to Light Every Room

Lighting can completely transform a space—when done right, it enhances the mood, sets the tone, and makes every room feel inviting and polished. But when it’s off? Your cozy living room can suddenly feel like a sterile waiting room, or your workspace might be so dim you’re straining your eyes just to read a notebook.

Thankfully, a few simple lighting guidelines can help you avoid common pitfalls and create a home that’s both functional and visually appealing.

Lighting Placement 101

Every space has different lighting needs, and even small changes can have a big impact.

Whether you’re installing a statement chandelier, arranging bedside lamps, or ensuring your desk lamp provides enough brightness, placement matters just as much as the fixture itself.

Ceiling Fixtures: How to Find the Right Size

A ceiling light should be proportional to the room—not so oversized that it overpowers the space, and not so tiny that it looks like an afterthought. The right balance keeps the space feeling well-proportioned and cohesive.

Quick Sizing Rule:

Measure the width of the room in feet, double that number, and use it as the fixture’s diameter in inches.

Example: A 10-foot-wide room? Your ceiling light should be around 20 inches in diameter for the best balance.

This rule works well for ambient lighting, but for task-heavy spaces like kitchens or offices, layering in pendant lights or desk lamps will help provide focused brightness where it’s needed.

For open-concept spaces, consider using multiple fixtures that complement each other rather than relying on a single oversized one.

Chandeliers: Statement Pieces, Not Obstacles

A chandelier can be a stunning focal point—as long as it’s hung correctly. Whether in a dining room, foyer, or bedroom, proper placement ensures it enhances the space rather than becoming a hazard.

Dining Room Chandeliers: The Ideal Height

Hang the chandelier 30 to 34 inches above the table for the perfect balance between ambiance and functionality. Too low, and it’s in the way; too high, and it loses its impact.
Have high ceilings? For every extra foot beyond 8 feet, raise the chandelier by 3 inches to keep it proportional.

Entryway Chandeliers: Make a Lasting First Impression

In foyers or entryways, chandeliers set the tone for the home. Ideally, the bottom of the fixture should be at least 7 feet from the floor to allow for clear walkways.
For grand staircases or double-height ceilings, position the chandelier about two-thirds of the way up from the floor to ensure it’s a focal point without feeling lost in the space.

Bedroom Chandeliers: Cozy, Not Overwhelming

Keep at least 7 feet of clearance from the floor to prevent the fixture from feeling intrusive.
In rooms with higher ceilings, opt for a lower-hanging chandelier with soft, diffused lighting for a cozy, inviting feel.

Chandelier Size Guidelines:

Dining Table Chandeliers: The fixture should be 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: Height Matters

Lamps may seem like a small detail, but their height plays a huge role in how effective the lighting is. Poor placement can lead to harsh glare, awkward shadows, or ineffective lighting.

Living Room Side Table Lamps: The bottom of the lampshade should sit 40 to 42 inches from the floor—this keeps the light at eye level when seated.
Bedside Lamps: The shade should align with the top of your shoulder when sitting up in bed. Typically, the lamp base should be around 20 inches from the mattress.
Desk Lamps: The bottom of the shade should be at eye level to reduce glare and provide focused lighting for reading or working.
Floor Lamps: For reading nooks or cozy corners, floor lamps should be 58 to 64 inches tall, providing enough illumination without overpowering the space.

Outdoor Lighting: Curb Appeal & Functionality

Outdoor lighting is more than just an aesthetic feature—it enhances security, visibility, and the overall ambiance of your home’s exterior.

Front Porch & Entryway: A well-lit entrance boosts curb appeal and makes the home feel warm and inviting—especially for evening showings or open houses.
Walkways: Lighting should be bright enough for safety but soft enough to feel welcoming. Solar path lights are a great, low-maintenance option.
Driveways & Pathways: These areas should be well-lit with minimal shadows to create a polished, safe exterior.
Accent Lighting: Highlight architectural features, trees, or landscaping with uplighting to add warmth and depth to your outdoor space.

The Right Light Changes Everything

Lighting can make or break a space—it’s what transforms a room from looking good to feeling good. By following a few simple placement guidelines, you can create a well-lit home that’s both functional and inviting—whether it’s a cozy bedroom, a statement dining area, or a polished entryway.

Before wrapping up, take a step back. Does the space feel warm and welcoming? Are key features highlighted? Or does it lean too harsh, like an interrogation room? A few small tweaks—raising a chandelier, adding a well-placed lamp, or softening a glare—can make all the difference.

At the end of the day, lighting should work for you, not against you. The right setup can take a space from “It’s fine” to “Wow, this feels incredible!”