Hallway Lighting Tips

Hallways can often appear dark, cluttered or cramped; however, you can easily transform your hallway into an attractive area of your home. To brighten the hallway, use inviting indirect lighting instead of florescent overhead lighting. If you are using your hallway to display family photos or artwork, arrange the lighting to highlight these pieces. Hang mirrors to make your hallway look larger, as they reflect light to give your hallway a more spacious, open feel. Does this Spark an idea?

Sconces

The classic choice for lighting hallways, sconces offer an appealing way to illuminate your hallway. Sconces can both help accent attractive hallway features and draw attention away from less desirable areas. Hang sconces at least five feet up from the ground. Downcast sconces create welcoming pools of light, while upward sconces give rooms a diffuse, warm glow.

Table Lamps

Eye-catching table lamps are the perfect adornment for your hallway. Place table lamps on tall, narrow hallway tables or atop small stands. If your hallway is large enough to accommodate an armchair or bench, place a table lamp on an end table next to it to create a cozy reading nook.

Track Lighting

Track lighting works well in long hallways, especially those which also serve as gallery space for photographs or art. Place track lighting near the ceiling molding, or at least eight feet off the ground. Use low-wattage bulbs to ensure that your track lighting feels ambient, rather than overly bright and clinical.

Chandeliers

Set off short hallways with high ceilings with decorative chandeliers. If you choose a dramatic chandelier, keep other decorations minimal so that your hallway decor does not appear overdone. Retro chandeliers add charm to small hallways. Since it is sometimes difficult to find the right height at which to hang your chandelier, select a chandelier with an adjustable chain and experiment with different heights for it. Consider purchasing miniature shades for your chandelier bulbs as well in case you would prefer a more gentle hallway lighting.

Skylights

If your hallway or entryway has a vaulted ceiling, consider installing a skylight. Natural light has many advantages--it's flattering, restful and sophisticated. Best of all, it's totally free. When deciding upon where to place your skylight, take the position of your house into account. North-facing skylights admit steady, mild light, while south-facing skylights add lots of brightness to hallways but may overheat them.

Candles

Another favorite source of natural lighting for interior decor, candles provide a convivial light unlike any other. While candles do not make for practical everyday hallway lighting, they provide a decorative flourish for special evenings at home. Hang several attractive candelabras on your wall, or place a few on your hallway tables. The next time you host a party, leave a magical impression upon your guests by illuminating your hallway with candles.