Identifying the right light fixture for a staircase can be a complex affair for most homeowners. The choice between staircase chandeliers and wall sconces is a never-ending dilemma. You should consider the room’s functionality and ambiance before you make your pick.
The option you select for your stairway can significantly affect its visual appeal. However, the right lighting solution requires that you take into account much more than just your home’s aesthetics.
Read on to learn everything you need to consider to help you select the right staircase lighting for your home.
Things to Consider When Choosing Between Staircase Chandeliers and Wall Sconces
To settle the dilemma of staircase chandeliers vs. wall sconces, you need to understand the differences between these two light fixture designs. This will help you select the best lighting option for your stairwell. Be aware that the choice of one doesn’t necessarily mean you have to do away with the other. There is a science to home lighting. And, it all boils down to your style and preference.
Wall sconces typically take up less space as they are affixed to the wall and are relatively small in size. However, it is recommended that their installation is taken into account during the home’s design phase for a balanced look and feel. Alternatively, staircase chandeliers are mounted on the ceiling and come in large dimensions. If you’re looking for a striking décor centerpiece, then this is your ideal choice.
Here are some of the factors you should consider when trying to decide between staircase chandeliers and wall sconces.
Ceiling Height and Size of the Room
When handling a staircase lighting project, the height of your ceiling and room size can determine the light intensity you may need for the space. If your staircase area is limited, wall sconces are ideal due to their space-saving design. Adding large light fixtures in a small space tends to make the room appear overwhelming and uninviting.
Meanwhile, homes with high ceilings will require larger light fixtures like the 6-tier crystal ring chandelier for optimum staircase illumination. The design allows for light to reach all areas of the stairway and improve the depth and dimension of the space. It’s recommended to install the chandeliers above the staircase landing as it’s usually the darkest zone of the area.
The Practicality of the Light Design
To ensure safety and avoid slips and falls, you should ensure that the staircases are well-lit. The light fixtures shouldn’t cast any shadows and should be easy on the eyes. For homes with high ceilings, ambient lighting from a staircase chandelier is enough. However, you can integrate both wall sconces as accent lighting and the chandelier for optimal illumination. Wall sconces may prove inadequate in such spaces.
Interior Design Theme
The light fixture you choose should match your home style and functionality. A poor choice could make the environment lackluster and unwelcoming. Chandeliers are typically associated with extravagance, class, and opulence. If you want your home to speak luxury, staircase chandeliers can be a fitting choice.
If you’ve added décor accessories to your space, you may need a muted yet stylish light fixture selection like the Bambi bubble wall lights to ensure your home’s style and décor theme stand out. This is where wall sconces come in. Ensure the lumen capacity of the wall sconces bulbs is enough for maximum brightness. Remember, the light fixtures you choose do more than enhance the aesthetics. They should remain functional.
Natural Light
Is there a window next to your staircase? Have you installed a skylight in your home? The presence of natural light in the home can dictate the amount of light needed for proper staircase illumination. When working with a darker room, choosing to install wall sconces may not be ideal. Chandeliers will offer better and more general lighting in these circumstances. They guarantee even illumination throughout the space.
Installation and Maintenance
Wall sconces are easier to install and clean compared to chandeliers. Ceiling-mounted light fixtures can be hard to reach, require more electrical work, and are more complex to install thanks to the elevated height. If you want to DIY your staircase lighting project, wall sconces are your best bet.
Placement of Staircase Chandeliers and Wall Sconces
Now that you’ve learned the difference between wall sconces and chandeliers and are aware of what to look for when making a selection, let’s take a look at where to place them. Remember, this isn’t an exclusive choice. You can integrate both options on your stairway.
Where to Place Wall Sconces
The first golden rule is to ensure that your light fixtures aren’t mounted at eye level. They should always be above eye level around 6 feet from the floor. Here are some of the ideal areas for placing your wall sconces:
- On the wall bordering your stairway.
- Above or below a décor piece or artwork placed along the staircase.
- On each side of your staircase landing for optimal illumination.
Where to Place a Staircase Chandelier
Understanding how to choose the right staircase chandelier is the first part of the puzzle, knowing where to place it completes your home’s look. Ideally, it should be above two meters from the floor. Installing it too low can obstruct those moving up and down the staircase while placing it too high can make the space underwhelming. Here are some of the best spots for placing your staircase chandelier.
