Lighting Measurements 101: How High Should My Light Fixtures Be?
You’ve probably asked yourself at some point:
“How high should my light switch be?” or “Are these kitchen island pendants the right size?”
Finding the right lighting fixture is only half the story.
Proper installation height and spacing are what bring balance, comfort, and style to your space.
This quick guide covers the most common lighting measurements to help you install with confidence.
Kitchen Lighting
How High Should a Pendant Be Above a Kitchen Island?
For ideal visual comfort, hang pendants 30–36 inches above the island surface.
This provides enough clearance for cooking and conversation without blocking sight lines.
How Long Should a Linear Suspension Be Over a Kitchen Island?
Keep 6 inches of space on either side of the fixture for balance.
Alternatively, use the ⅔ rule: your suspension should be about two-thirds the length of your island.
How Large Should My Kitchen Island Pendants Be?
Start by determining pendant spacing.
Divide the island into equal sections, one more than the number of pendants.
If you want three pendants, divide the island into four equal parts.
Pendants should hang where the segments meet.
Example:
For a 6-foot island with two pendants, divide it into three 2-foot sections.
Hang the pendants at 2 and 4 feet from one side, keeping roughly 30 inches between them.
Dining Room Lighting
What’s the Right Size for a Dining Pendant?
For dining tables, allow 6 inches of space on each side of the fixture.
Choose a pendant with a diameter ½ to ¾ the width of your table.
This keeps the light proportional to the furniture and provides even illumination.
Bathroom Lighting
How High Should Vanity Lights Be?
Vanity lights should sit at eye level, about 60–70 inches from the floor, to evenly light the face.
When placing lights beside the mirror, align them at the same height for symmetry.
What’s the Best Placement for Lights Above the Mirror?
A vanity light above the mirror should be ¾ to the full width of the mirror.
Avoid lights that extend past the edges.
If your mirror is wide, install two or three fixtures evenly spaced above it.
Bedroom Lighting
What’s the Ideal Bedside Sconce Height?
Bedside sconces should be installed at eye level when sitting up, about 28–30 inches above the mattress.
Keep them within arm’s reach — not too close to bump into, and not too far for reading.
How Far Should Recessed Lights Be from the Wall?
This depends on the effect you want.
For general lighting, position recessed fixtures 36–48 inches from the wall.
For wall washing or highlighting art, adjust based on the beam angle.
What’s the Proper Pendant Height from the Floor?
Hang chandeliers or pendants about 7 feet from the floor.
If you have higher ceilings (9–10 feet), you can go slightly higher — just make sure brightness levels remain adequate.
How Far Should a Suspension Hang from the Wall?
Allow 4 feet of clearance between the suspension and any nearby wall or door.
This ensures safe movement and even light spread.
How Far Apart Should Track Light Heads Be?
Track lights are highly adjustable.
For most rooms, space the heads 2–4 feet apart.
If you’re lighting artwork or performing tasks, adjust the heads as needed for focused light.
Outdoor Lighting
How Far Apart Should Path Lights Be?
Path lights are designed for safe nighttime navigation.
Place them 6–8 feet apart, depending on their lumen output.
If the area feels too dark, add more — better to overlap light than leave gaps.
Final Note: Lighting Measurements Are Guidelines
Not every fixture is the same size or brightness.
Some spaces require lower hanging chandeliers for drama or higher placement for clearance.
Always review local electrical codes and, when in doubt, consult a lighting expert.
Proper lighting measurements ensure your design looks intentional, balanced, and functional —
and that every light, from kitchen pendants to path lights, does its job beautifully.
