Wall sconce height makes the difference between lighting that flatters a room and lighting that blinds it. Here is the simple guide to hanging wall sconces at the right height, every time.
The standard rule
In most rooms, mount wall sconces so the center of the shade or the light source sits 150 to 170 cm (60 to 66 inches) from the floor. This places the light at or just above eye level, which spreads light evenly without shining directly into anyone’s eyes.
Room by room guide
Living room and hallway: 150 to 170 cm (60 to 66 inches) from the floor to the center of the fixture. Space multiple sconces 180 to 240 cm (6 to 8 feet) apart.
Bedroom, beside the bed: 120 to 135 cm (48 to 54 inches) from the floor, or about 75 to 90 cm (30 to 36 inches) above the top of the mattress. This puts the light right where you need it for reading.
Bathroom, beside the mirror: 150 to 165 cm (60 to 65 inches) from the floor, mounted on both sides of the mirror about 90 to 120 cm (36 to 48 inches) apart. Side lighting flatters the face far better than a single light above the mirror.
Dining room: 150 to 170 cm (60 to 66 inches) from the floor, usually flanking a sideboard, artwork, or fireplace.
Stairway: 150 to 170 cm (60 to 66 inches) above each stair tread nosing, spaced evenly along the staircase.
Common mistakes to avoid
Hanging too high. Sconces near the ceiling waste light and look disconnected from the room. Hanging too low. Below eye level, the bulb glares straight into eyes. Uneven spacing. Measure twice. A row of sconces at slightly different heights is very noticeable. Forgetting the switch. Plan switching before the electrician leaves, especially for bedside sconces.
Moroccan sconces and height
Pierced brass sconces throw patterned light up, down, and sideways, so correct height matters even more. Too high and the pattern lands on the ceiling where nobody sees it. At the right height, the pattern washes the wall around the fixture, which is the whole point of a Moroccan sconce.
Frequently asked questions
Should wall sconces be at the same height as pendant lights? Not necessarily. Pendants hang lower over tables and islands. Sconces follow the 150 to 170 cm wall rule independently.
How far apart should two sconces be? In hallways and living rooms, 180 to 240 cm (6 to 8 feet) apart. Beside a bed or mirror, 90 to 120 cm (36 to 48 inches) apart.
Can I install sconces myself? If wiring already exists, many sconces are a simple swap. New wiring should be done by a qualified electrician.
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