Staircase and Hallway Wall Lights

The aim of staircase lighting is to show the steps without shadows. A single ceiling light leaves shadows on the front edge of each step; wall lights give light from the side and from close to eye level. Every step becomes clearly visible, and the staircase feels wider and more welcoming.

On a staircase, wall lights follow the line of the steps: each light is kept at the same height, measured from the nose of the step below it. At least one light per floor or landing, and roughly one every 6–8 steps on long staircases, is a good starting point. In hallways, wall lights are mounted 150–170 cm from the floor and 2–3 metres apart; repeating the same design at equal intervals gives an orderly look.

In narrow staircases and hallways, choose shallow designs that do not project far from the wall. Up-and-down lights wash the wall from top to bottom and make the space look taller; opal glass designs give a soft light without glare. Warm white light of 2700–3000 K is easy on the eyes at night. For detailed measurements, read our hallway and staircase lighting guide.