Choosing the Right Sized Exterior Lighting

When friends, family, and unsolicited guests drop by, your exterior lighting is a key part of the first impression you communicate. While it's important to find a fixture that highlights your style, it's easy to overlook another factor that impacts both the visual appeal and functionality of your lighting: size. Selecting a light that's proportional to its space is a simple way to maximize the wow factor of your entryway.

How to Select the Proper Size

Sizing your outdoor lighting is simpler than you think. When choosing light fixture(s) for an exterior door or entryway, the height of your lantern or outdoor fixture should be based on the height of the door or opening. So, what does that mean?

  • If a single lantern is used on one side of a door, the piece should be approximately one-third the height of the door.
  • If two lights are used on either side of a door, the pieces used can be slightly smaller, approximately one-quarter the height of the entryway.

Installation Guide

Outdoor lighting fixtures should be mounted slightly above eye-level. On a standard door, this measures approximately 66 inches above the threshold of the door.

Depending on the outlet box location, different arm styles can be selected to position the filament at the correct height.

Expert Tip: If in doubt, always go larger.

Have questions or need assistance?

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