Find out how to make your hallway brighter and more welcoming with these stylish lighting ideas.
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Hallway Lighting and Fixtures Ideas for Welcoming Spaces
Updated Aug. 23, 2024
Ceiling and Wall Lights
A hallway with no natural light might need two sources of light to make it more welcoming, as seen here in this example from @kalensplace. The overhead pendants and wall sconces work together to transform this plain, dark hallway into a bright, glamorous space. The modern gold tone of both fixtures helps make the overall look elegantly simple.
Shade Pendants
This hallway by @w_designinteriors showcases a row of shaded pendants that look effortlessly timeless. Make sure your ceilings are tall enough to accommodate oversized pendants like these — there should be at least 7 feet of space from the bottom of the pendant to the floor. These light fixtures are made with luxurious silk shades.
Picture Lights
Picture lights add light to your hallway and illuminate wall art for a sophisticated look, like in this hallway from @biltmorecohomes. Position the light at a 30-degree angle focusing the beam at the center of the art or photograph. You can install wired picture lights, but battery-operated picture lights are an easy, DIY option.
Geometric Chandeliers
Lighting can be like jewelry for your hallway, adding a touch of glam and sparkle. Case in point, this hallway by @sullivaninteriordesign. The row of gold, octagonal chandeliers (here’s a similar light fixture) provide a focal point for the hallway and draw the eye up, making the ceilings seems taller and shining attention on the beautiful crown molding.
Semi-Flush Lights
Semi-flush fixtures are often used in hallways because they don’t hang too low, which means they work for common ceiling heights and offer more style than a recessed light. These scalloped white ceramic and brass ceiling lights (chosen by @diyjenna) lend chic, modern flair. They are surprisingly affordable at $100 each, and when you need multiple fixtures, a low price is always a plus!
Flush-Mount Statement Light
Use a small hallway alcove to make a big lighting statement like @bethanyciotola. The flush-mount brass and crystal light fixture (here’s a similar design) is a nice surprise in an area of the house that could easily be ignored. To add even more interest, install bold wallpaper on the walls and ceiling.
LED Rope Light
How about hallway lighting and artwork in one? That’s the idea behind this LED light rope installation by @emilyrayna. The light rope is flexible so you can bend it to any shape, curving it around small nails (as seen here) or using the included adhesive mounting clips. The color-changing shape illuminates the hallway in a fun and unexpected way.
Layers of Light
This cute DIY hallway makeover by @heyitshillarylaw includes two layers of light — a new ceiling fixture, and a small table lamp. Layering light sources creates a cozy ambiance, even in a hallway. The large mirror is another great choice as the reflection bounces the light around the space and makes the hallway feel bigger and brighter.
Originally Published: November 18, 2022
