Lighting placement is one of those details that seems small—but it’s the difference between a space feeling effortless or slightly off.
There are standard guidelines I use as a starting point, but the goal is never to follow rules blindly. It’s to make lighting feel right in the space.
Over Tables + Islands
For pendants and chandeliers, I typically start with:
- 30–36 inches above the surface
This keeps the fixture visually connected to the table or island without blocking sightlines.
From there, I adjust based on scale, ceiling height, and the size of the fixture. A larger piece may hang slightly higher, while a more delicate fixture can come down a bit to feel grounded.
Sconces + Eye Level
Sconce placement is less about the wall and more about the person using the space.
- 60–66 inches to center is the general range
This aligns with eye level to reduce glare and create softer, more comfortable light.
I’ll shift this depending on ceiling height, mirror size, or the proportions of the fixture itself.
How I Plan It
Before we ever meet with the electrician, I create a lighting schedule that includes:
- Fixture selections
- Recommended mounting heights
- Placement notes for alignment and spacing
This gives us a clear plan going into the electrical walkthrough—so we’re refining, not guessing.
On Site Adjustments
Even with a plan, I always confirm everything in person.
We’ll stand in the space, look at sightlines, and make small adjustments so everything feels balanced in real life—not just on paper.
Lighting should feel natural, not noticeable.
And most of the time, that comes down to a few inches in the right direction.
