Standard Height for Wall Sconces

Wall sconces can add light to dark hallways and style to any design.

Wall sconces are a popular addition to any design plan. They come in many sizes and styles, and can be used in every room in the house as well as outdoors. The one question raised consistently is how high to hang sconces.

Sconce Heights for Standard Ceilings

Lighting experts say sconces should be hung six feet from the floor.

Lighting experts say to hang your sconces six feet from the floor if your room has standard eight-foot ceilings. You can make minor adjustments for your personal preferences or to enhance other wall decor in the room. Make sure the light bulb cannot be seen from the top of the light. It creates a glare and diminishes the fixture's impact as an accent light.

Sconce Heights for Higher Ceilings

Higher volume rooms can support larger sconce lights.

If you have rooms with ceilings higher than nine feet, experts recommend larger sconces to match the proportion of your room. A general rule is to hang sconces six feet from the floor. Measure from the floor to the middle of the wiring box on the back of the light. If the sconce is particularly large, you can measure to the bottom of the light.

Sconce Heights for Special Situations

Hanging standards for sconce lighting may have to be adjusted for larger entries.

Sconces be used in other rooms of the house, but may require different hanging heights to meet the need of the area. For instance, outdoor entry sconces should hang six to eight inches on either side of the door and 18 inches from the top of the door. Entry, hallway or bathroom sconces should hang to match items around them, such as mirrors or artwork.

References

• Apartment Therapy
• Derek Marshall Lighting
• Heavenly Lights