What is a wall light?
This is a type of lighting fixture mounted on the wall, compatible with any kind of bulb. Typically, they are used as accent lighting rather than the main light source. Wall lights are a great way to bring a warm, subdued glow into your home, as their light is often directed upwards.
Wall lights are not limited to a particular room. They can be fitted in the living room or bedroom, but also in hallways or entrances. They serve as an excellent way to provide lighting without taking up any floor space. Wall lights can even be installed outdoors. You can choose models with a motion sensor to switch the light on as you pass by — ideal for positioning near doors, for example.
Living room➞
Why choose a wall light?
Wall lights are particularly popular for the atmosphere they create. There are countless styles, each offering its own unique character.
To start with, wall lights come in a wide array of materials: wood, plastic, bronze, glass, wrought iron or even nickel. This offers you endless possibilities.
What’s more, the shape and lines of the fixture influence the quantity and diffusion of light, strongly impacting the mood and ambience in the room.
The variety doesn’t stop there — you’ll find wall lights in every shape and size. They are genuine decorative features, playing an important role in your home’s style. Whether you’re after an industrial wall light or a Scandinavian-inspired design, you’re certain to find the perfect match.
At what height should you install your wall light?
Our tips for classic wall lights
Modern wall light models should be mounted at different heights depending on the room. You also need to consider the ceiling height and the design of the lighting fixture itself.
With a standard ceiling height (2.5 metres), place the wall light 1.8 metres from the floor. For higher ceilings, you can go up to 2 metres. This will optimise the quality of the lighting.
If you want to use your wall light for reading, it’s best to opt for an adjustable model. Conversely, for accent lighting, choose an upward-facing design for a cosier, softer glow.
In the bathroom, remember that indirect lighting is best. Often, wall lights are fitted on either side of the mirror, at a height of 1.8 metres.
In bedrooms, it’s common to install wall lights lower down, usually close to the bed. Here, it’s best not to mount them too high to get a more focused, brighter light.
Our tips for specific wall lights
This type of lighting doesn’t have strict rules regarding installation height. Again, it depends on the room, ceiling height, the design of the wall light, and the desired effect.
The higher you mount your wall light, the softer and warmer the light will feel. On the other hand, if you want a more intense light source, install them lower. Keep in mind that wall lights directing light downwards provide stronger illumination than those facing upwards.
Our advice for swing-arm wall lights
Designer swing-arm wall lights can be fitted at several heights. Here again, placement is determined by the effect and position you need. If the arm of the wall light is long, install it at 2.1 metres for accent lighting, or at 1.8 metres for more direct lighting. In bedrooms, they can even be placed as low as 1.5 metres.
