Lighting Ideas for a Long Narrow Hall

Recessed Lights

• To add light from the ceiling in your hallway, install recessed lights to add brightness without taking up space. Put the lights in along the ceiling at regular intervals to create a lighting scheme that will not be overwhelming in a narrow space. According to the Lighting Direct website, you should place a light every 8 to 10 feet in most hallways. To find the right balance for your home, experiment with light bulbs in different watts and distances apart to find the right balance for your hall.

Corner Lamps

• A problem common to many long hallways is the dark corners at either end that can create the feeling of an unending tunnel. To solve the problem without taking up much space, use tall, slim standing lamps. Look for designs that have small, flat bases that can tuck into the corner without being a trip hazard; choose models with low-profile heads that can be rotated to shed light on the darkest areas.

Track Lighting

• When you want to control or shift the lighting in your hallway, use track lighting. Depending on the style of your home, you might use a standard straight track or look for a curved version to add visual impact to the ceiling. Install the lights along the ceiling, and reposition the individual fixtures to create an even lighting scheme along the hallway; you can also use them to focus on pieces of art or to brighten dark corners.

Gallery Lighting

• Narrow hallways are often ignored as a design space. If you want to use your hallways as a display area for artwork, use lighting for functionality and dramatic effect. Install small spotlights at the top of the wall, and focus them to shine down on each painting; for an equally dramatic look, position the lights under each piece to shine up. The defined cones of light will lend your hallway a dramatic look without impeding function.

Dramatic Fixtures

• Because a hallway is often the first introduction to your home, you can use dramatic lighting fixtures to set the tone. If the hall has a high ceiling, hang two or three chandeliers to add a glow and create a bold statement. For an antique look, mount electric candle sconces along the wall at a height that will not be a hazard for people walking by. Bold lighting choices can add style to a hallway instead of letting it go unused as a design space.