Struggling to find the perfect ceiling lighting size for your rooms? You’re not alone! We’ve all been there – eagerly awaiting the arrival of a beautiful light fixture, only to realize it’s way too big or too small.
In this blog, we’re sharing some tips on how to choose the right size lighting fixtures, ensuring a perfect fit every time.
Enter your email below to download the full PDF Ceiling Light Sizing Guide complete with design tips, and links to all of our favorite lighting fixtures from past projects!
Living Room Lighting
Your living room is where you relax, entertain, and spend quality time with family. The lighting should reflect the importance of this space. Here’s how to get it just right:
Diameter of the Fixture:
– Living Room Length (ft) + Living Room Width (ft)
– Convert that number to inches to get the ideal diameter for your chandelier or pendant.
For example, if your living room is 12×18 ft, you add 12 + 18 to get 30. Thus, your chandelier should be approximately 30 inches in diameter.
Ceiling Height Matters
For an 8-foot ceiling, your fixture should hang 7 feet off the floor.
For higher ceilings, adjust accordingly. Add 3 inches of height for each additional foot of ceiling height.
This simple formula ensures a balanced look that complements your space beautifully.
dining Room Lighting
Your lighting fixture should make a statement without overwhelming the space. Here’s how to achieve that balance:
Size and Spacing:
– Choose a fixture about 12 inches narrower than your table’s width.
– Hang the fixture approximately 30 inches above the table. This height provides ideal illumination for dining and ensures the fixture is not in the way.
For instance, if your dining table is 48 inches wide, a chandelier with a diameter of about 36 inches or less will work perfectly.
Kitchen Pendant Lighting
Kitchens are both functional and social spaces, and the lighting should enhance both aspects. Here’s how to pick the right pendants for your kitchen island:
Size and Spacing:
– Aim for fixtures that are about 1/3 the width of the island.
– Space them 30 inches apart, center to center, to ensure even lighting.
For example, if your island is 90 inches long, three pendants each 10 inches wide, spaced 30 inches apart, would be ideal. I tend to like larger lighting fixtures so I typically use fixtures that are at least 12” in diameter.
Also, if you have a deeper island (countertop deeper than the standard 36”), you’ll want to adjust the diameter accordingly.
Light Fixture Hanging Height
The bottom of the pendants should hang 30 to 36 inches above the countertop.
Remember, clear glass fixtures can be hung a bit lower, while solid ones might need to be higher to stay out of your sight line.
These guidelines are great starting points, but don’t be afraid to trust your instincts and adjust based on your unique style and room design. If it doesn’t feel right, go with your gut! Lighting is not just about function; it’s also about creating a mood and enhancing the beauty of your home.
