Due to the layout of hallways, specific lighting techniques are necessary to achieve optimal illumination. Layering your lights with the correct lighting fixtures is key. Hallway height and length must be taken into consideration as well.

You want to create stylish lighting that is warm, balanced, and bright enough to safely navigate through the hallway. Note, installation location will impact the effect your lighting will have on the space.

So, if you want to enhance the look and feel of your hallway, following the tips below will help you meet your goals.

Lighting Layers
Improper hallway lighting can make it feel dark and cramped. Incorporating all three lighting layers is essential to having a well-lit space. You’ll need to know the best lights for creating each of those layers. Keep in mind that lighting must be proportional to the hallway.

Ambient lighting
Your first layer must be ambient lighting, which serves as overall lighting. For hallways with high ceilings, install hanging fixtures. A chandelier or sole pendant, a smaller alternative, will do.

Not only will they illuminate the entire space, these fixtures will act as a focal point to enhance visuals. If one pendant is inadequate, then supplement it with wall lights.

Grouping smaller pendants in linear fashion down the length of the hallway is another way to provide ambient
lighting. It also prevents shadows which cause the space to feel smaller.

Recessed lighting is best for hallways with lower ceilings since most of the fixture is hidden in the ceiling. Wall lights on their own or semi-flush light fixtures are other ambient lighting options. Semi-flush lights are flush against the ceiling, saving space.

They also come in many designs to provide hallway decor. If possible, install a skylight and use the natural light as ambient lighting.

Task lighting
Task lighting makes it easier to perform tasks and creates a safer space. Flank a mirror with wall sconces so you have light to check yourself before heading to work. This setup increases brightness without producing shadows.

Install wall sconces that direct light towards the floor so you have a pathway for those late night bathroom trips. It’ll also add visual interest.

Use a table
lamp to shine light onto a table used for resting keys or a wallet. Keep table size in mind. Tall tables will require taller lamps.

Accent Lighting
Last, but certainly not least, is accent lighting. This layer acts as a focal point for aesthetic appeal. Create drama by washing the walls with downlights.

There are also wall lights that shine light upward and downward that make for great accent lighting. Shades are a way to bring style to the hallway. Choose wall lights with drum shades for elegant flair or shades that display light patterns.

Highlight artwork or a mirror with a spotlight or uplights, which focus light upwards. You can also use customizable track lights as spotlights. These fixtures work with industrial and

contemporary themes. Showcase table decor with the soft downward lighting of a table lamp. Give yourself control over mood and install dimmers to all fixtures.

Short and Long Hallways
Consider the length and height of the hallway before setting up your lighting. Size affects how well the space is lit. Adequate lighting won’t leave dark corners. Shade material will impact brightness.

To increase light intensity, go for light-colored shades since dark-colored shades don’t allow as much light to pass through. Short hallways
A short hallway will seem bigger if its vertical surfaces are lit with wall lights or sconces. Lights covered with diffusers or cloudy glass will emit a soft glow and create warmth.

For brighter light, forego shades and opt for exposed bulbs. Hang a centralized chandelier as both a focal point and ambient lighting in a hallway too narrow for wall lights.

Hang a pendant in a hallway that’s too small for a chandelier. Take bulb type and wattage into account because you want lights that are bright enough to open up the space.

Stay away from recessed lighting for hallways with dark walls or it will feel confined. Since these lights don’t illuminate vertical surfaces, they are best paired with light-colored walls.

Eliminate shadows with adjustable track lighting. Install them on the ceiling or edge of ceiling walls and redirect the lights toward dark pockets. To lengthen the hallway, position a light at the end of it.

Long hallways
If you have a long and narrow hallway, you want your lighting to create a wider space. Avoid large fixtures because it will only make the hallway feel narrower.

Save room and increase ceiling height with recessed lighting. Because most of the light is hidden in the ceiling, these
subtle fixtures are versatile and can be used with any style.

Another trick is to place sconces high on the wall. This causes your eyes to automatically look upwards, increasing ceiling height and hallway width. Wall lights can be used as long as the fixtures don’t extend from the wall.

There are many designs to match all types of decor. Install them down the entire length of the hallway. Go for decorative hanging fixtures in hallways with higher ceilings. Add glamour and elegance with sparkling designs.

Positioning track lights towards dark pockets expands hallway width. While track lighting is modern, antique bronze finish will transform it into a fixture fit for traditional looks.

Placement
Light placement is important for providing balanced and adequate illumination. Make sure to position wall sconces 5ft up from the floor and every 6-8ft apart for even lighting. Since smaller fixtures emit less light, you’ll need to place them closer together to raise brightness.

Hanging fixtures must leave at least 7ft of clearance from the floor to the bottom of the fixture. This will prevent people from hitting their head while walking through the hallway.

When setting up your hallway lighting, using all three lighting layers will yield the best results. Remember to light your hallway according to its size to ensure the entire area has sufficient illumination.

Choose fixtures that won’t take up room, causing the hallway to feel small. By applying these guidelines, you will create lighting that gives you maximum comfort while adding style to your home! Looking down the hallway of a modern home with white tiles for flooring and stoneword wall on left.