How to Properly Size Your Lighting For Different Types of Spaces

When planning your home lighting, it’s easy to fall in love with a fixture's style, but choosing the correct size is just as crucial for a balanced and functional space. A light that’s too small can get lost in a room, while one that’s too large can be overwhelming. At Shelby Design Center, a key part of our interior lighting design process is proper scaling. Here are four simple tips to help you properly size your lighting. Get started today.

A large, elegant crystal chandelier hangs from a blue ceiling in a serene bedroom. A white tufted headboard is centered under a decorative ceiling medallion. Two table lamps with white shades sit on matching bedside tables.

For General Spaces (Living Rooms & Bedrooms)

A simple formula can guide you. Add the room’s length and width in feet. The sum is the ideal diameter for your central light fixture in inches. For example, a 12’ x 14’ room (12 + 14 = 26) would look great with a 26-inch diameter chandelier or flush-mount fixture.

A sparkling crystal chandelier is centered over a round, dark wood dining table in a dining room with a white wainscot. Six light-colored chairs are arranged around the table. Two matching silver-based lamps with white shades sit on a white buffet against

For Dining Room Tables

Your dining chandelier should be scaled to the table, not the room. A good rule is to choose a fixture with a diameter that is between one-half and two-thirds the width of your table. This ensures the light is proportional and provides adequate illumination for meals.

Two white pendant lights hang over a dark wood kitchen island. The pendants are lantern-style with clean lines and a metal frame. The kitchen features white upper cabinets, a light gray countertop, and a white subway tile backsplash.

For Kitchen Islands

For lighting a kitchen island, consider using multiple pendants. A common guideline is to space pendants about 30 inches apart over the island, ensuring the first and last are at least 6 inches from the edge. This provides even, balanced task lighting for your workspace.

Two tall, cylindrical wall sconces with brushed nickel bases are mounted on either side of a large round mirror with a thick white frame. The sconces provide vertical lighting over a white bathroom vanity with a single-handle faucet.

For Bathroom Vanities

When choosing a light to go above a vanity mirror, aim for a fixture that is roughly two-thirds the width of the mirror. For the most flattering light, consider placing sconces on either side of the mirror instead of one light above.

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These guidelines are a great starting point for any interior lighting project. However, every home is unique. For personalized advice and to see a wide selection of perfectly scaled fixtures, visit us at Shelby Design Center. As your local lighting store in Shelby Township, we are here to help you make the perfect choice for your home.

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