Which light fixture to choose for a hallway? Our advice and ideas

Often overlooked, the hallway is nevertheless one of the most visible spaces in a house or apartment and the first glimpse one has upon entering. Good hallway lighting does more than just illuminate: it guides, visually enlarges the space, and improves daily comfort.

Why hallway lighting is important

A hallway often lacks natural light, which can make it dark and unwelcoming. Hallway lighting must meet a dual requirement: provide sufficient brightness to move safely, while creating a pleasant visual atmosphere. Good lighting can even give the impression that the hallway is wider or taller than it actually is.

Without well-thought-out lighting, a hallway can become a cold space or too contrasting between dark and bright areas, which tires the eyes and disrupts the harmony of the interior.

How to properly light a hallway

Here are the main elements to consider for effective and attractive lighting.

Light intensity

The light intensity must be sufficient to ensure optimal visibility. Generally, aim for a moderate to high total output if the hallway is long or windowless, to avoid shadowy areas. Using fixtures with suitable power ensures uniform and comfortable lighting.

Colour temperature

Colour temperature strongly influences the atmosphere. For a hallway, it is generally recommended to use light between 2700 K and 3000 K for a warm atmosphere, or up to 3500 K if you want a more neutral and modern effect. Light that is too white (≥ 4000 K) can seem cold and emphasize the feeling of a passageway rather than comfort.

Spacing of light fixtures

The spacing between fixtures should be planned according to the length of the hallway. Light points should not be too far apart to avoid shadowy spots. With well-placed fixtures, whether ceiling lights, wall lamps, or minimalist pendants, you create even and pleasant lighting. To help you precisely size the number of spots or light points needed according to your area, consult our guide: how many spots to install per m².

Top 5 light fixtures for hallways

Here is a selection of light fixtures perfectly suited to hallways, whether narrow, long, or dimly lit.

1. Zon: modern LED ceiling light

The Zon is an LED ceiling light with a sleek and contemporary design, particularly suited to hallways. Its round shape and even light allow effective illumination of the space without visually weighing it down. Discreet yet elegant, this type of fixture is ideal for modern hallways where functional, uniform, and attractive lighting is sought.

2. Antic: golden glass wall lamp

The Antic Wall Beta is a wall lamp ideal for hallways. Positioned at eye level, it provides indirect and even lighting without glare. Wall lamps are especially suited to hallways where uniform light from the wall to the floor is desired.

3. Share: minimalist LED ceiling light

The Share is a simple but effective ceiling light, perfect for hallways with low ceiling height. Its well-distributed light ensures smooth and comfortable visual flow, while being discreet and modern.

4. Exhaust Linear: adjustable design spotlight for hallway

The Exhaust Linear is an adjustable spotlight with an industrial design, perfectly suited to lighting modern hallways. Its adjustable direction allows precise lighting of areas to highlight, while providing functional and controlled illumination. This type of fixture is ideal for structuring a hallway while adding a contemporary and technical touch.

5. Indirect lighting or LED strip (additional idea)

If you cannot find a dedicated fixture for your space, a solution of indirect lighting can make all the difference: LED strips integrated along the walls or under a cornice, or recessed LED profiles to light the ceiling or floor. This approach diffuses soft light, perfect for narrow or dark hallways.

This type of lighting creates a warm atmosphere without a directly visible light source, and is especially useful when space is limited or when installing bulky fixtures is not possible.

Mistakes to avoid

Here are the most common mistakes when lighting a hallway:

• Installing too few fixtures, creating shadowy areas
• Choosing light that is too cold (≥ 4000 K) which accentuates the tunnel effect
• Positioning light points too high without considering diffusion
• Neglecting the direction of light (direct vs indirect)

Taking these elements into account will help you achieve coherent, comfortable, and aesthetically successful lighting.

Conclusion

A well-lit hallway is no longer just a passage area, but an integral part of your interior’s atmosphere. By choosing the right fixtures, whether wall lamps, ceiling lights, or more creative solutions, you transform this area into a welcoming and functional space.

Whether you opt for a sculptural pendant like the Zon, a wall lamp like the Antic Wall Beta, or a linear solution like the Exhaust Linear, your hallway light fixture should aim for both visual comfort and harmony with your décor.