A designer wall light dresses a wall as much as it lights it. Choose a metal, glass, black or gold finish and a spot: living room, bedhead or hallway.
Styles and materials of designer wall lights
Modern style leads the way: discs, tubes, globes and geometric lines, mostly in metal. The finish changes the whole effect on the wall:
- silver or chrome, for a bright entrance hall or bathroom;
- gold or brass, to warm up a dark wall;
- black, to accentuate an industrial or graphic interior;
- white, to blend into a pale wall.
Glass gives a softer light than metal, which directs the beam. Fabric filters the light, acrylic lightens the silhouette, and a few models play with crystal or ceramic. As for inspiration, industrial, Art Deco, vintage and retro or reinvented rustic lines sit alongside minimalist forms.
Positioning a designer wall light
In a living space or hallway, mount the wall light 1.60 to 1.80 m from the floor; in a hallway, allow one every 2 to 3 m. Above a bed, go down to 1.10 to 1.30 m, with one on each side. A model that lights both upwards and downwards visually lengthens the wall, while an enclosed diffuser limits glare. Our guide to fitting wall lights explains the wiring.
Some designer wall lights take a bulb, others have integrated LED: for a slim, long-lasting light source, see also our LED wall lights. If you are looking for a candle-style light or a pleated shade, a classic wall light will suit you better. Outdoors, turn to our outdoor wall lights: IP44 under a canopy, IP65 where exposed to rain. To compare with other styles, browse all our wall lights.
Frequently asked questions about designer wall lights
What size of designer wall light suits a living room wall?
On a large expanse of wall, a wall light 25 to 45 cm wide can be seen from across the room and acts as a decorative feature. Compact models of 15 to 25 cm are better suited to narrow passages and bedsides. For a very long wall, sizes of 60 cm and more light a console table or sofa along its full length.
Can a designer wall light replace a ceiling light?
In a small room, yes, if several wall lights share the output: a living room needs 100 to 150 lumens/m². Choose models that throw light towards the ceiling, which reflects it around the room. For a warm atmosphere, 2,700 K LED bulbs give the best results in a living room or bedroom.
How do I install a designer wall light where there is no wiring?
Most wall lights are wired to a cable coming out of the wall, in a connection box. Failing that, some models come with a flex and a switch to plug into a socket, which is handy if you rent or want to avoid chasing the wall. Always switch off the power at the consumer unit before fitting, and call a qualified electrician if in doubt.
