By Clarissa Allison | August 19th, 2016
Everyone knows that first impressions make a big impact, and when friends, family, or prospective home buyers come to your abode, your foyer is responsible for the snapshot image of what to expect from the interior. This makes foyer lighting an integral factor in the overall outlook visitors will have of your home.
Lighting this area of the home should be done carefully, but it doesn’t have to be difficult! In fact, foyer lighting is easy and fun if you review your options and understand some basic lighting principles. Below, we give tips on lighting different entryway styles with your own personal flourish and suggest some quality lighting fixtures for the job:
That Manhattan Look
If your foyer is timeless and streamlined with only the best furnishings, wallpaper and window treatments, a classic chandelier is the way to go. The dimensions of the are you have to work with plays a big part in the size of your chandelier, but the vibe in the rest of the home should play an equally significant role in the style of chandelier you choose. See The Kichler Lighting 1897 Eileen 9 Light Chandelier Brushed Nickel Finish below:
A Vibrant Entryway
Sophisticated Romance
A Rustic Entryway
A Neutral Entrance
A Neoclassical Foyer
An Eclectic Entryway
Final Tips
To determine the right width of the light fixture: Add the length and width dimensions (in feet) of the foyer area together. That number – in inches – is the width of the light fixture you should look for. So, if your foyer is ten feet by ten feet, you’ll want a light fixture that is about 20 inches wide.
To determine the right height of the light fixture: Position the light fixture so that the bottom is at least seven feet from the floor. If you have a window above your front door in the foyer, you can really heighten the effect of a beautiful chandelier. Center the chandelier in the window. Even from the outside, your home will look brilliant!
Depending on how large your foyer is, you may want to look for a flush mount ceiling light, a semi-flush mount light, or a chandelier with two or three tiers.
Very large entryways might call for wall sconces in addition to a ceiling light fixture. Hang them about 66 inches from the floor and place them about eight feet apart.
For questions on the items featured on our blog, please call us toll free at 1-877-385-2104 or email info@louielighting.com.
Kim LaBrier says
Hi! I love the foyer light in the last photo. Do you have the name and web site? Thank you. Kkm
Louie Lighting says
Catalano Architects may be able to assist as this is a photo from a renovation they completed: https://www.houzz.com/pro/catalano/catalano-architects