Wall lights are the type of lighting fixture that a hotel requires in the largest quantity, and where most errors only become apparent after installation. They are hung at eye level, viewed frontally, and placed where an outlet may or may not be present. This page discusses wall lights in commercial properties, not in living rooms.
Mounting Heights per Area
There is no general height, but rather one specific to each task:
- Corridor and Stairwell: approximately 1.80 to 2.00 meters, with a distance of three to four meters between two lights, consistent across the entire floor.
- By the Bed: around 55 to 65 centimeters above the top edge of the mattress, so that the light falls on the book page and not into the eyes.
- By the Mirror in the Bathroom: laterally at approximately eye level, i.e., around 1.60 to 1.70 meters, so that the face is illuminated from the side and not from above.
- On the Wall Behind the Bar: high enough so that the light illuminates the wall and does not glare at the seated guest.
Glare is the Main Problem
In commercial properties, guests approach wall lights and look at them. Therefore, models with a closed shade, baffle, or light output directed upwards and downwards are more robust than open fixtures. A simple test before ordering: if you can see the light source directly while sitting or walking, you will be blinded. In the room, a second point, often underestimated, is added: the light must be switchable from the bed, otherwise the guest will have to get up again.
Outlet, Mounting, and Switch
A wall light is a structural decision. Before ordering, three points need to be clarified: the position of the outlet in terms of height and axis, the mounting surface (i.e., solid wall or stud frame with crossbar), and the switching. Retrofitting cables in finished rooms is the most expensive option. In bathrooms, a specific protection class applies depending on the distance to the shower and bathtub, which is determined by the electrical planning. If this is not clarified in advance, the lights will be delivered and cannot be installed.
Quantity, Replacement, and Repetition
Wall lights are the item that is most frequently repeated in a building. A floor with thirty rooms requires, depending on the concept, sixty lights by the bed and a multiple in the hallway. This leads to two rules: Firstly, the question of reorderability must precede selection, because a failure in two years must not cost the entire floor. Secondly, a small stock of replacements in-house is worthwhile, because a defective light in the hallway is immediately noticeable. Suitable models can be found in the Wall Lights collection, supplemented by Light Bulbs in a uniform light color.
Interaction with Other Levels
The wall light is the middle lighting level. It neither replaces the chandelier in the hall nor the table lamp on the console, but connects both. How the levels are planned together can be found under Lighting Concept in Hotels.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high should wall lights be mounted in a hotel?
In the corridor, approximately 1.80 to 2.00 meters; by the bed, around 55 to 65 centimeters above the top edge of the mattress; and by the bathroom mirror, laterally at eye level. The height depends on the task, not on a fixed value.
Which wall lights do not cause glare?
Models with a closed or frosted shade, with a baffle, or with light output directed upwards and downwards. If you can see the light source directly while sitting or walking, you will be blinded.
What needs to be clarified before ordering wall lights?
The position and height of the outlet, the mounting surface of the wall, the switching, and, in bathrooms, the protection class depending on the distance to the shower and bathtub. Retrofitting cables is the most expensive option.
Personal advice
We advise you personally and online. Send us your room dimensions or a photo at info@casa-luxury.de and we will put together a suitable selection for you.
Models from the Current Collection
A selection of available models. Each image leads to the product page with dimensions, material, and delivery time.
Continue in the guide: Hotel Furnishings at a Glance · Lighting Concept in Hotels · Corridor and Stairwell · Eichholtz Wall Lamps