Wall lights create directed light in places where a ceiling light would be too diffuse or structurally impossible. They emphasize wall surfaces, frame mirrors or artworks, and structure long hallways. For them to fulfill their purpose, the height and distance to the wall, as well as to adjacent lights, must be precisely chosen. Incorrectly positioned, they can glare or cast harsh shadows. This guide shows which measurements apply in which room and when wall lights can completely replace ceiling lighting.
Mounting Height According to Room Function
The upper edge of the luminaire in living areas is typically between 170 and 190 cm above the finished floor. In this range, they do not glare when sitting and illuminate the wall evenly. Next to a sofa or reading chair, the height may be lowered to 140 to 160 cm so that the light falls at the eye level of the seated person. In the hallway, a height of 180 to 200 cm is recommended to avoid dazzling passers-by and at the same time illuminate the path.
In the bathroom, different measurements apply: wall lights mounted next to or above the mirror should be positioned so that the light source is at face height, i.e., about 160 to 170 cm. Above the mirror, the lower edge of the luminaire should be at least 200 cm high so that the light comes from above and does not cast shadows under the chin or nose. In stairwells, the height is based on the middle of the step: 180 to 200 cm above each step prevents glare when ascending and descending.
Distances Between Multiple Luminaires
If wall lights are mounted in a row, for example along a hallway or above a sideboard, the distance between the central axes should be 100 to 150 cm. For smaller luminaires with a narrow beam, 80 cm is sufficient; for large models with a wide beam angle, it can be 180 cm. The crucial factor is that the light cones overlap on the floor or on the opposite wall without creating harsh transitions.
Maintain a minimum distance of 30 cm from door frames, windows, or room corners so that the luminaire does not appear isolated and enough wall space remains for illumination. In symmetrical arrangements, such as to the left and right of a fireplace or mirror, both luminaires should be mounted at exactly the same height and at the same distance from the central axis. Deviations of more than 2 cm are immediately noticeable to the eye.
Distance to the Wall and Alignment
The distance between the luminaire and the wall depends on the model. Flat sconces sit directly on the wall, while arm lamps extend 15 to 40 cm into the room. The greater this distance, the more the wall itself is illuminated and the softer the light falls into the room. Luminaires with adjustable arms or shades can be aligned as needed: upwards for indirect light, downwards for reading light, sideways for accent lighting.
For luminaires with exposed bulbs, the distance to the nearest flammable surface should be at least 50 cm. Models with a closed shade or LED technology may be closer to curtains or wood paneling, provided the manufacturer's specifications allow it. In any case, heat dissipation must be ensured.
When Wall Lights Replace Ceiling Lights
Wall lights can completely replace ceiling lights if they are installed in sufficient numbers and with enough luminous flux. As a rule of thumb: for every 10 square meters of room area, about 300 lumens are needed for basic lighting. A living room of 25 square meters therefore needs about 750 lumens, distributed among several wall lights. Models with 400 to 600 lumens per luminaire are suitable for this.
Especially in rooms with low ceiling heights or visible beams, wall lights offer advantages: they leave the ceiling free and create more depth through the side light. In old buildings with stucco or coffered ceilings, they avoid drilling into historical substance. Also in rooms with many windows or sloped ceilings, where ceiling lights are difficult to position, wall lights take over the main lighting. The prerequisite is that they are evenly distributed and illuminate various wall surfaces so that no dark corners are created.
Guidelines for Common Rooms
| Room | Mounting Height (cm) | Distance Between Luminaires (cm) | Luminous Flux Per Luminaire (Lumen) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Living Room | 170–190 | 120–150 | 400–600 |
| Hallway | 180–200 | 100–120 | 300–500 |
| Bedroom | 140–160 (near bed) | 150–180 | 250–400 |
| Bathroom (next to mirror) | 160–170 | 60–80 | 400–600 |
| Stairwell | 180–200 (above step) | 120–150 (vertical) | 300–500 |
Planning the Electrical Installation
Before wall lights are mounted, the position of the cables must be determined. In new buildings or during renovations, flush-mounted boxes can be placed at the desired locations. For existing installations, it should be checked whether existing connections can be used or if cables need to be laid subsequently. Cable ducts or stucco moldings are suitable if chiseling is to be avoided.
Each wall light requires its own connection or is wired in series. In series connection, a maximum of five luminaires may be connected to one circuit, provided the total power does not exceed 2,300 watts. Dimmable luminaires require a compatible dimmer and appropriate light sources. Installation should always be carried out by a qualified electrician, especially in damp rooms such as the bathroom.
You can find suitable pieces under Wall Lights and Wall Mirrors. Information on how the pieces are constructed, available dimensions, and delivery times can be found on Eichholtz Wall Lights and Eichholtz Wall Mirrors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high should wall lights be mounted next to a bed?
The upper edge of the luminaire is ideally 140 to 160 cm above the floor, so that the light falls at the eye level of the person lying down. The distance to the edge of the bed should be 20 to 30 cm so that one is not dazzled when reading and the light switch is easily accessible. For adjustable luminaires, the mounting height may also be slightly lower.
Can wall lights be used in damp rooms?
Yes, provided they have an IP44 protection rating or higher. This designation guarantees protection against splashing water. Stricter requirements apply in the area of the shower or bathtub: at least IP65 is required there. The luminaire must also be mounted outside protection zones 0 and 1, i.e., at least 60 cm from the water source.
How many wall lights does a 12 square meter hallway need?
For 12 square meters, about 360 lumens of basic lighting are needed. For luminaires with 300 to 400 lumens each, two to three pieces are sufficient, distributed at a distance of 100 to 120 cm. In narrow, long hallways, an odd number is recommended so that no luminaire is directly opposite a door. The first and last luminaire should each be at least 50 cm from the room ends.
Which light sources are suitable for wall lights?
LED light sources are the first choice due to their efficiency and long lifespan. They generate little heat and are available in various color temperatures: 2,700 Kelvin for warm light in living areas, 4,000 Kelvin for neutral white light in the bathroom or hallway. For luminaires with visible light sources, a pleasant shape should be chosen, such as candle or globe shape, so that the light does not glare.