Hallway ceiling lights brighten the way through with nothing sticking out. Choose flush or compact models, then how many and where along the corridor.
How many ceiling lights and where to put them
A poorly lit hallway has dark patches between lights. In a long hallway, fit a ceiling light roughly every 2 to 3 m, the same spacing as for wall lights, starting with the front door and the bedroom doors.
- Narrow hallway: diameters of 25 to 45 cm, the most common here.
- Wide hall or entrance: a 45 to 60 cm design or a multi-light one.
- Low ceiling: a flush ceiling light never gets in the way, even when you're carrying a tall box.
Light, switching and materials
Choose warm white at 3,000 K, similar to the neighbouring rooms, to avoid a hospital-corridor feel. Integrated LED, found on a good share of designs, reaches full brightness as soon as it's switched on: an advantage in a space where the light goes on and off constantly. For a porch or covered entrance, IP44 designs are also available.
Modern leads, followed by classic, rustic and vintage; metal, glass and acrylic make up most designs, in white, brass or chrome. To complete the scheme, see our hallway wall lights, hallway spotlights, all our hallway lighting, the full range of ceiling lights and our guide to lighting a hallway.
Frequently asked questions about hallway ceiling lights
Ceiling light or spotlights in a hallway?
A ceiling light gives broad light and fits on a single ceiling outlet, making it easy to install in a renovation. Recessed spotlights look more discreet but need a false ceiling; space them 1 to 1.5 m apart, about 50 cm from the walls. In a narrow hallway, a centred line of spotlights works well.
How do I avoid glare in a hallway?
Choose a glass or acrylic diffuser that completely hides the bulb, as you walk towards the light and see it head-on. Warm white is easier on the eyes than cool white. If the hallway is used at night, a lower setting stops you being dazzled as you go from one bedroom to another.
Which ceiling light for a windowless entrance hall?
A windowless hall needs light that reaches the walls too: a wide design with a diffuser, or a multi-light one, avoids a well-like effect. Add a wall light by the mirror to check your face before you go out. Pale colours on the ceiling and walls reflect more light.
