Mount most wall sconces so the fixture centre sits about 152–168 cm (60–66 in) from the floor — roughly eye level. Flank a bathroom mirror at around 165–170 cm, space hallway sconces every 2.4–3 m, and set bedside sconces about 90–100 cm above the mattress. Always mount pairs symmetrically so the wall reads as balanced.
Key takeaways
- General height: fixture centre 152–168 cm from the floor (eye level).
- Bathroom: flank the mirror at ~165–170 cm, or mount above at ~1.9 m.
- Bedside: ~90–100 cm above the mattress, within reach.
- Hallways: one sconce every 2.4–3 m, mounted at a consistent height.
- Up-light for ambience, down-light for task, shaded for a soft glow.
On this page
- How high to mount a wall sconce
- How far apart to space sconces
- Bathroom, bedside and stairway placement
- Up-light, down-light or ambient?
- Frequently asked questions
How high to mount a wall sconce
The default is eye level — about 152–168 cm to the centre of the fixture — so the light is useful and the fixture is seen at its best. Adjust by location:
| Location | Height (floor to fixture centre) |
|---|---|
| Hallway / general | 152–168 cm |
| Beside a bathroom mirror | 165–170 cm |
| Above a bathroom mirror | ~190 cm |
| Bedside | 90–100 cm above the mattress |
| Stairway | Eye level on each step, following the slope |
How far apart to space sconces
In a hallway or long wall, place one sconce every 2.4–3 m for even pools of light, keeping the first and last a similar distance from each end. When sconces flank a mirror, artwork or bed, mount them symmetrically — usually 15–25 cm out from each side of the object — and at exactly the same height. Symmetry is what makes wall lighting look deliberate rather than accidental.
Bathroom, bedside and stairway placement
- Bathroom: a pair either side of the mirror at ~165–170 cm gives shadow-free light on the face — better than a single light above, which casts shadows under the eyes. Use a fixture rated for bathroom zones (see our IP ratings guide).
- Bedside: ~90–100 cm above the mattress keeps light on your book and frees the nightstand. Choose adjustable or switched-at-the-fixture models.
- Stairway: follow the incline, keeping each sconce at eye level for someone on that step.
Up-light, down-light or ambient?
Which way a sconce throws light decides what it's good for. Up-light washes the wall and ceiling for soft, flattering ambience. Down-light is directional — good for task areas and for grazing a textured wall. Shaded or diffused sconces glow in both directions for a gentle, even effect. Choose warm colour temperatures for living and sleeping spaces; see warm vs cool light.
Frequently asked questions
How high should a wall sconce be from the floor?
About 152–168 cm to the centre of the fixture — roughly eye level — for hallways and general use. Adjust for bathrooms (beside the mirror ~165–170 cm) and bedsides (~90–100 cm above the mattress).
How far apart should wall sconces be?
Every 2.4–3 m along a hallway or long wall. When flanking a mirror, bed or artwork, mount them symmetrically about 15–25 cm out from each side and at the same height.
Should bathroom sconces go beside or above the mirror?
Beside is better — a pair either side at eye level lights the face evenly and avoids the shadows a single overhead light casts under the eyes and chin.
How high should bedside wall lights be?
Around 90–100 cm above the mattress, within easy reach, so light falls on your book without shining in your partner's eyes.
Do wall sconces need a junction box?
Hardwired sconces do. Plug-in sconces don't and are ideal for renters or walls without wiring — just conceal or run the cord neatly to an outlet.
Last updated: July 2026 · Written by Artevaris Editorial
Related reading: IP Ratings for Bathroom & Outdoor Lighting · Flush vs Semi-Flush vs Pendant · Warm vs Cool Light
Browse wall lights and the full lighting collection.
