Choosing Wall Lights: Size, Glare and Switch Planning

A wall light occupies space in front of the wall as well as on it. Before choosing a finish, decide whether you need background light, a decorative feature or light for a particular task. Use the checks below to compare fittings in our wall lights collection against the way you use your room.

Measure the whole fitting, not just its height

Width and height describe the outline you see head-on; projection is how far the fitting reaches into the room. These two Eichholtz lights illustrate why all three measurements matter.

Libris is only 3.5 cm taller, but projects 11 cm further and is more than twice as wide. Claridges therefore leaves more space in front of the same wall. That difference may matter beside a doorway or a chair that moves when someone stands up.

Mark the proposed outline on paper and hold it against the wall. Separately measure the projection into the room, including the path of opening doors and curtains. A flat template alone cannot show whether you will brush against a shade.

Compare the glass from your usual viewing position

Claridges has clear glass above and below its central brass band. Consider how visible the bulbs will be from your sofa or dining chair, and whether a nearby mirror will reflect them. Clear glass creates a different appearance from an opaque shade; ribbing should not be treated as a guarantee against glare.

Libris places white glass around its light sources, giving a more enclosed appearance. The globe arrangement is also broader and deeper. For reading, assess where light needs to fall on the page; a decorative wall fitting is not automatically a directional reading light. Photographs show the design, but cannot establish brightness or comfort in your room.

Decide how you will switch and dim it

For these exact models, Eichholtz specifies 220–240 V, E14 lamp holders and indoor use in dry locations only. Claridges takes two bulbs; Libris takes five. Bulbs and dimmers are not included. The manufacturer lists both as dimmable and lists no plug or integral switch.

Plan the electrical installation with a qualified electrician. Decide whether the wall lights should operate independently from the ceiling light, and whether controls should be reachable from your usual seat. If you want dimming, have the chosen bulbs and dimmer checked for compatibility together before ordering.

Check the backplate before decorating

The decorative outline does not tell you where the wall plate will sit. Claridges has a 12 cm round plate; Libris has a 20 × 8 cm plate. Ask your installer to check the fixing arrangement, cable position, wall support and whether the plate will cover an existing opening. Do this before committing to wallpaper or panelling.

Also allow access to remove shades and replace bulbs as the manufacturer instructs. Confirm the latest specifications for the exact finish you order. If your priority is coordinating several fittings, our guide to matching ceiling and wall lights compares two other lighting ranges.