Well thought out hallway lighting ideas make a world of difference and can transform a drab space into something warm and welcoming. From practical spotlights and wall lights to contemporary pendants and whimsical table lamps with a soft glow, there are endless ways to illuminate your entryway and set the mood.
Hallway ideas are often overlooked, but they are the perfect opportunity to set the tone for the rest of your home. Lighting can alsomake a narrow hallway look wider, if done right.
hallway lighting ideas
"Narrow or dark hallways need elevation, so it's best to use 'light' fixtures when space allows," says Piero De Marchis, Director,detail lighting(opens in a new tab). "Tilting ceiling lights on the walls or lighting art also gives the impression of a larger space and pushes the walls back."
Stairs and landings don't have to be bright, but it's better to use a discreet recessed light to change direction or level,” he says. Providing dim lighting in corridors is one of the top five problemsErrors in the decoration of the corridors that you should avoid, but carefully placed lighting can change things.
1. Hang a chandelier
(Image credit: Future PLC / Ryan Wicks)
"For an entryway that leaves a lasting impression, a chandelier exudes luxury and ambiance," says Mary Buchanan, creative director oflaura ashley(opens in a new tab)lighting and mirrors. Hanging a beautiful chandelier has the same effect as wearing statement jewelry and elevates the entire look. Some high street home goods stores have affordable options that give everyone a sense of sophistication.cheap decoration.
2. Light up with two pendant lamps
(Image credit: Future PLC / James Merrell)
"Since the hallway is the entrance to your home, you want to make sure it's well lit and creates a welcoming atmosphere as soon as someone walks through the door," says Yvonne Keal, senior product manager atHillary(opens in a new tab). "A pendant light or two provides the perfect amount of light for entering guests and brightens the entryway with an aesthetic statement." Look for stylish recycled glass pendant lamps like the ones above, or opt for beautiful fluted glass for a hotel vibe.
3. Take advantage of architectural details
(Image credit: Future PLC/Brent Darby)
Successful lighting depends on the proportions and size of your hallway. If you have a lot of space, be bold and opt for a large format light or a smaller accessory set to make a dramatic statement. Take advantage of the high ceilings and experiment with lighting designs with different intrusions, as they add interest on different levels and unify the upstairs and downstairs.
"Stairs connect rooms and people," says Marketa Rypacek, general manager of the furniture and lighting brand.Industville(opens in a new tab), 'Connecting ground-floor and first-floor spaces, meaning effective industrial-style lighting can transform your home's interior hallways and tie designs together.'
4. Stand out with something oversized
(Image credit: Future PLC / Claire Lloyd Davies)
"Since there's often little space for furniture, hallways can be quite drab. Interesting lighting is a great way to add drama and interest and set the tone for the rest of your project," says Peter Bowles.Davey Lighting(opens in a new tab). “An oversized pendant lamp adds a decorative touch without compromising space. If you have room for a small console table, a table lamp adds a warm and inviting touch."
5. Let in natural light
(Image credit: Future PLC / Anna Stathaki)
Touching part of the hallway wall allows natural light from the front room to flow into the entry. Of course, you should consult a professional before demolishing walls, but this can be a good alternative to brighten up your hallway (and increase the feeling of space in your living room).
6. Add a quirky neon light
(Image credit: Future PLC / James French)
Create a talking point with neon lights at the door. Not only is it useful when rummaging through your wallet and keys, but it also adds a lot of character to the room. You can hang it in the entryway or across the hall to create a soft glow.
7. Choose minimalist ball lights
(Image credit: Hudson Valley Lighting Group)
Globe ceiling and pendant lamps have recently made a comeback and are a stylish yet practical option for hallway lighting when space is limited. They give off bright, but not glaring light, and give the room a minimalist, mid-century feel with their understated silhouette.
8. One velas
(Image credit: Future PLC)
Create a soft glow and a warm scent with a few candles placed on a side table in the hallway. Pair flickering candlelight with a table lamp to invite guests over, and stand in front of a small mirror to reflect the light.
9. Organize a gallery feeling
(Image credit: Future PLC/James Merrell)
Follow this modern hallway design by using accent lighting to illuminate a feature wall. Sleek matte black sconces hang above the artwork lining the walls of this elegant hallway. This accent lighting not only highlights the artwork to make it more decorative, but also adds a soft glow along the wall that helps brighten the room.
Library-style wall sconces are complemented by a spherical pendant light that cascades from the stair above to add another design element to enhance the hallway scheme.
10. Reflects light in a narrow hallway
(Image credit: Future PLC)
In a narrow or small hallway, you need to create as much light and spaciousness as possible. An easy way to paint in addition to the bright white of the walls so that they reflect light is to use glass lights so as not to overwhelm the decoration.
A simple glass pendant creates an opening that doesn't make an already small space feel cramped or closed off. Glass also helps light expand further, making any compact space feel more spacious.
11. Bet on glamor
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)
You want to make a fabulous first impression on everyone who visits your home, so choose the design that best reflects your personality. A large pink tassel chandelier will make your hallway a destination unto itself.
This interior-inspired piece pairs well with high ceilings, making it ideal if you have a vintage home. In this sleek white hallway, the homeowners went one step further and painted the door the same shade of pink to give the color more visual impact.
12. Set the tone with consistent colors
(Image credit: Future PLC/Douglas Gibb)
Use smart lighting at the entrance of your home to dictate thathallway color schemeas well as the colors of the adjoining rooms. in this brightwhite corridorA bright yellow pendant adds a welcoming touch, echoed in the stunning Orla Keily wallpaper in the hall-facing living room. Consistent use of color and pattern sets the tone for an uplifting decorating scheme and creates a sense of flow that draws people in.
13. Seek natural light whenever possible
(Image credit: Future PLC/Fiona Walker-Arnott)
When your floor plan allows, consider adding windows to let in as much natural light as possible. This view of the hallway from the kitchen shows how a compact skylight fills the space.small hallwaydaylight room. The layout of this 1930s five-bedroom family home allows for the skylight, but the same results would work from a small side window.
14. Illuminate an entrance with a spotlight
(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)
From a functional point of view, spotlights are always a convincing lighting solution. They provide directed ceiling lighting to well illuminate the space below. In a hallway, this is a valuable light source, as you can see everything clearly from the moment you enter the house after dark.
Directional lighting directly above a door is always good for security in the sense that the entrance is bright to see visitors on the threshold and engage with everyone.outdoor lighting ideas.
15. Balance the lighting to change the mood
(Image credit: Future PLC/James French)
Create balance by mixing alternate light sources. Opt for a kitchen bar spotlight to create a passage from one room to another and act as a purely functional light source. Add table lamps to create a cozier and more intimate atmosphere whenever you want.
Full ceiling lights come in handy when you're still on your feet and traveling from room to room. Since you've opted for a set of boxes and don't use the hallway as often, a softer light might better suit the climate.
16. Make a statement with black
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Parmiter)
Use the color in a more subtle yet elegant way as an accent throughout the entryway throughout the millwork. Pair the color with a center pendant light to create a central focal point. In this historic property, the ceiling rose window is beautifully accented by the contrasting monochromatic color palette, with black being the dominant color to emphasize the decorative elements.
A simple yet captivating gloss black metal with a bronze finish is more than enough to keep the court looking stylish.gray corridor. The metallic finish evokes the subtle sheen of satin wood to create a seamless look.
17. Light up the stairs
(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)
In this hallway, the owners have chosen a modern design with a contemporary oak staircase with recessed lighting. This design feature is ideal for a single-family home where the steps are easier to navigate as the lights clearly show the floor and the space between each step.
18. Use walls for downlights
(Image credit: Future PLC/Emma Lee)
Keep space in mind when choosing lighting. In a premium living space, sconces work great. In a separate dimming circuit, pattern detail is selected by adding recessed lights (or sconces) to this schemeidea for hallway wallpaper, and also highlights the oddities and whimsical objets d'art in the cabinet below.
19. Add warmth
(Image credit: Future PLC/Lizzie Orme)
A pair of table lamps on a console or dresser will add a soft glow to the room and create a cozy atmosphere. Keep the look symmetrical for an aesthetic that's pleasing to the eye.
20. Choose a mid-century design
(Image credit: Future PLC/Paul Raeside)
The hallway is the perfect place to introduce color and design, but also to use striking lighting. Choose a bold design that draws the eye upwards, like this black ceiling light. Whether you're reaching for your keys, taking a last look in the mirror, or sitting on the stool to put on your shoes, task lighting is ideal for a hallway.
21. Light up a small space
(Image credit: Future PLC/Paul Raeside)
if you have oneNarrow corridor, using mini wall lights or a single pendant works great. Keep in mind, however, that wall fixtures that pull too far can make the room appear smaller. Make sure the wall lights are high enough to prevent them from falling over as you walk past.
22. Mix and match your lights
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Woolley)
Combining different light sources is a great way to add interest and character to a room. A pendant lamp provides practical, focused lighting, while lamps placed on a small table or console table cast soft cones of light and add welcoming warmth to entry halls. If the ceiling is low, consider sconces, which are also ideal for illuminating stairs and landings.
What is the best lighting for a hallway?
“If you have a long hallway, put ceiling lights at each end. This will highlight the long space and naturally invite guests into the rest of the house," advises Peter Legg, Lead Designer,where the lighting(opens in a new tab). “For a stylish and traditional entryway, consider using a hallway lamp. Or, if you are looking for a more modern touch, a single ceiling lamp.
“Overlay your lighting scheme to frame areas of interest like consoles or artwork. If you're short on space, wall lights help draw the eye upward and give the impression of higher ceilings.
"The hallway also serves a functional purpose, so don't forget to introduce task lighting or brighter bulbs to areas that need it," advises Peter. "Nothing is worse than having to tie your shoelaces in another room because you can't see them well in the hallway!"
How to improve the lighting in the corridors?
Ben Marshall Creative Director ofHudson Valley Lighting Group(opens in a new tab)He says that you can improve the lighting in the corridor not only by thinking about the ceiling but also about the walls of the corridor. "Both together create a dynamic play of light," she says. Sconces that highlight a work of art or a side table, as well as a pendant lamp, offer options in terms of brightness.
How to light a small corridor?
night lighting(opens in a new tab)recommends installing a multi-lamp luminaire in a small hallway, as it fills the room with warm light. "If you have a low ceiling, choose recessed lighting so you don't take up already limited space."
What color of light is the most suitable for a corridor?
Warm light is always more attractive than cold light, so we generally recommend going with a warm shade. But it depends on your hallway, for example, lighting expert Ben Marshall recommends considering the natural light that the space receives.
FAQs
What is the best lighting for a hallway? ›
Keep sconce lights above eye-level -This draws the eye up and makes the space feel open. It also reduces the risk of glare. Check for dark spots - Shadows can make a hallway feel smaller and unwelcoming. Check for dark spots by standing at either end of the hallway.
What are the best lights for a hall and landing? ›Pendant lighting is often the best used in stairwells, entrance halls and landings or where you'd like to show off architectural features as they will draw your eye upwards. If you have the space, choose an oversized pendant or one with multi-drops as it will add interest at different levels.
How do you light a dark hallway without an outlet? ›Large wall or free standing floor mirrors, high-shine console tables, and even lacquered paint on sideboards, shelving, or a wooden staircase will be effective at bouncing the light around a darker hallway.
How do you light a hallway with stairs? ›Start with a well-lit hallway
An overhead pendant is a good starting point. It will provide general background light for the hall and light the foot of the staircase, giving the space a focal point. A large single pendant will work in a spacious, square-shaped hallway.
If you're wondering what colours make a hallway look wider, we'd always go for brighter neutrals to prevent a tunnel-like effect, such as creams, ivories, soft greys, seagreens or any other hues of these kind of tones.
What are the best lights for over stairs? ›Overhead pendant lights are the best lights for stairs. Such lighting fixtures provide light at the foot of the stairwell, giving it a focal point. You can use a single large pendant light for big spaces and two small pendant lights for narrow spaces.
What can I use instead of recessed lighting in my hallway? ›These alternatives include modern semi-flush ceiling lights, and styles such as disc lights, pendant lights, tube lights, and track lights.
How do I increase the natural light in my hallway? ›- Paint the internal face of your door. A heavy wooden door will absorb light instead of reflecting it. ...
- Use light from adjoining rooms. ...
- Use mirrors to reflect light. ...
- Light colour schemes. ...
- Declutter. ...
- Skylights. ...
- The bannister and stairs. ...
- Embrace the darkness.
Create light from above with pendant lighting, which can provide ambient light for the area, or use recessed ceiling lights in a flat ceiling to cast light downwards. Meanwhile, wall-recessed stair lights can illuminate the treads effectively, and wall lights can be an elegant addition.
What color is best for hallway with no natural light? ›Lighter shades of blue or green are ideal for hallways with no windows or doors. Because there is limited natural light, these colors will help to create some brightness in the space.
What color light is best for hallway? ›
We recommend a warm white light colour for the hallway. You should basically aim at a value between 2,700 and 3,300 Kelvin. Warm white light is attractive and feels comfortable – it will make your guests feel welcome and you happy to get home.
What color brightens a hallway? ›Dark-coloured paint makes for a dark hallway. So, choose a shade that will help the space feel light and airy. A light grey like Rock Salt will lend your hallway a contemporary feel, like you might find in the reception of a boutique hotel. In fact, any kind of pale neutral would work well.
What kind of light do you use for stairs? ›Pendant lights
Sometimes, if the stairs are particularly small, a single pendant light is all you will need for landings and stairs. However, pendant lighting can also be used in combination with other lights. You use recessed lights leading up the stairs with a pendant light to illuminate the landing.
According to vastu, the ideal placement of your hall should be in the Northeast or Northwest direction of your home and white and blue are good colours for this place. White represents the metal element in a place and is known to bring clarity of mind. The blue stands for relaxation and tranquillity.
Should a hallway be lighter or darker? ›Keep it light
Because many hallways don't have windows or other avenues for natural light, there's a possibility they'll feel cave-like with a paint color that's too dark. So, light and bright is best. “White or light walls can make tight spaces feel more open and spacious.
- Harness the power of mirrors. If you're going to splurge on anything in your entryway, mirrors are the way to go. ...
- Keep fresh flowers on hand. ...
- Play with pattern and color. ...
- Rethink your lighting fixtures. ...
- Add in a statement piece. ...
- Don't overcrowd the space. ...
- Add in some art.
People tend to look the best when illuminated by light bulbs that measure around 2700 kelvins. Most bulbs, whether incandescent, LED, compact fluorescent or halogen, are labeled “soft white/warm white” (2,700-3,000 kelvins), “bright white/cool white” (3,500-4,100 kelvins) or “daylight” (5,000-6,500 kelvins).
What kind of light goes in an entryway? ›A chandelier is a classic choice that can add a touch of elegance to any entryway. If you have a small space, however, a flush-mount light or wall sconce may be a better option. For a more modern look, consider a pendant light or track lighting.
What type of lights give off the most light? ›LED light bulbs use a light-emitting diode (LED). This is a solid-state semiconductor that emits light when a current passes through it. These high-efficiency bulbs emit more lumens per watt and last 20 times longer than incandescent bulbs. A 10W LED bulb produces as much light as a 60W incandescent bulb.
How can I get light without a ceiling light? ›The most effective way to light a room with no overhead lights is by using a range of different types of lighting. From wall lights and sconces, to floor lamps and table lamps, by combining multiple light sources you can provide plenty of practical light while also creating depth and atmosphere.
How can I add a light to a ceiling without wiring? ›
To install a ceiling light without wiring, look for plug-in pendant lights. These are single lights that hang by a cord from the ceiling and plug into a nearby outlet.
How do you brighten dark stairs? ›Use two colours - a lighter colour on the walls and choose darker coloured woodwork. Using greater amounts of the pale shade and less of the dark will make the space feel bigger and more airy.
How do I get the natural light look? ›- Use mirrors. ...
- Utilize soft and warm hues. ...
- Use neutral colors for furniture and walls. ...
- Add gloss to furniture surfaces. ...
- Opt for light colors. ...
- Keep windows unobstructed from furniture. ...
- Avoid clutter. ...
- Add subtle light fixtures.
- Install recessed lighting above an entryway window seat. (Image credit: Mel Yates) ...
- Add interest with sculptural lighting. ...
- Double up on pendants. ...
- Curate a bespoke lighting scheme for your hall. ...
- Plan a symmetrical scheme. ...
- Invest in architectural wall lighting. ...
- Maximize light with mirrors. ...
- Light a cozy entryway nook.
- Incorporate Storage. ...
- Lay Down an Engaging Runner. ...
- Go Green. ...
- Install a Dramatic Light Fixture. ...
- Consider New Handrails. ...
- Update the Stair Risers. ...
- Incorporate Artwork.
According to Vastu Shastra, a staircase always needs to be painted in light colours as they induce positive energy in the space, are soothing to the eye and also don't dominate the other social areas in your house. Some colour choices can be pastel pink, yellow, light blue, light grey, off-white, green and brown.
What color light is closest to natural light? ›Halogen Light Bulb
Halogen bulbs are a type of incandescent that gives a close approximation of natural daylight, known as "white light." Colors appear sharper under halogen light and the bulbs can be dimmed.
4000K can be described as early-morning or late-afternoon sunshine that comes in through a south-facing window. 5000K and higher color temperatures are also close approximations of natural light, but they are more aligned with natural daylight, rather than natural sunlight.
How do you make LED lights for stairs? ›When installing exposed step-lights (without aluminium extrusions), the best approach is usually to stick your LED strip to the underside of the stair-tread's overhang. The LED light will then shine downward, creating a glow effect while hiding the light-source.
How can I add light without electricity? ›- Old standbys. Candles. ...
- Oil or kerosene lamps. ...
- Frequently used today.
- Flashlights. ...
- Battery lamps. ...
- Solar lights. ...
- Most modern technology.
- Battery backup LED lights.
Is daylight or soft white better for hallway? ›
Daylight offers better brightness and energy. Soft white on the other hand offers better coziness and warmth. Keep in mind that the lighting of the room can actually change your mood. Size of the room –Often the size of the room decides what type of light you require.
What colour light is best for hallway? ›We recommend a warm white light colour for the hallway. You should basically aim at a value between 2,700 and 3,300 Kelvin. Warm white light is attractive and feels comfortable – it will make your guests feel welcome and you happy to get home.
How bright should hallway lights be? ›Lumens: Ambient lighting for entries and stairways should be 1,200-4,000 lumens; ambient lighting for a hallway should be 1,200-2,500 lumens.
How do you brighten a dingy hallway? ›- Paint the internal face of your door. A heavy wooden door will absorb light instead of reflecting it. ...
- Use light from adjoining rooms. ...
- Use mirrors to reflect light. ...
- Light colour schemes. ...
- Declutter. ...
- Skylights. ...
- The bannister and stairs. ...
- Embrace the darkness.
According to vastu, the ideal placement of your hall should be in the Northeast or Northwest direction of your home and white and blue are good colours for this place. White represents the metal element in a place and is known to bring clarity of mind. The blue stands for relaxation and tranquillity.
How can I make my hallway look good? ›Hallway ideas: decoration
Since hallways, especially in city houses, tend to be narrow, the walls are an important feature. Opt for a warm paint colour, some elegant wall panelling, or a patterned wallpaper to lend the space character. Also consider adding wall lights, for a gentler glow than an overhead light.
People tend to look the best when illuminated by light bulbs that measure around 2700 kelvins. Most bulbs, whether incandescent, LED, compact fluorescent or halogen, are labeled “soft white/warm white” (2,700-3,000 kelvins), “bright white/cool white” (3,500-4,100 kelvins) or “daylight” (5,000-6,500 kelvins).
What should you display in a hallway? ›- A Console Table Inside the Front Door. ...
- A Large Mirror Above the Console. ...
- Entryway Decor. ...
- Hooks for Coats and Jackets. ...
- Pendant Lights Down The Hall. ...
- Statement Piece of Art. ...
- Wall Sconces. ...
- A Gallery Wall of Family Photos.
Looking for grey hallway ideas? Whether it's pale or slightly darker, dove grey is a great all-rounder. You can dress it up with silvers and metallic shades for a luxe look or keep it simple with natural colours and earthy textures.
How many lights should you have in a hallway? ›As a general rule of thumb, hallways generally require an overhead light at least every 8 feet, along the length of the hallway. For larger spaces, large pendants can make a real statement, while smaller fittings and translucent shades work well in a smaller hallway, while still making an impact.