Moving into a new build home is exciting—but the lighting is often one of the first things that feels…unfinished.
Most builder-grade lighting is fairly minimal. You’ll usually get recessed lights throughout, but not much else. If you want your home to feel more personalized and layered, this is where adding your own fixtures makes all the difference—like a statement pendant over the dining table, pendants over the kitchen island to add interest, or wall sconces to highlight artwork.
In this post, I’m sharing a few simple placement guidelines to help you get it right, along with some of my favorite fixtures you can actually shop.
Pendants Over a Kitchen Island
Kitchen island pendants do more than provide light—they help define the space and bring a sense of balance to the entire kitchen.
For placement, hang pendants about 30–36 inches above the countertop and allow for at least 30 inches between each fixture. This spacing keeps everything feeling evenly distributed and visually grounded.
Choosing the right scale and spacing helps the island feel intentional, rather than just another surface in the room.
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Pendant or Chandelier Over a Dining Table
Dining lighting should feel connected to the table itself, not just centered in the room.
Always align your fixture with the center of the dining table, even in open concept spaces where the table may not sit perfectly in the middle of the room.
For height, aim for 30–36 inches above the table. This creates a comfortable visual connection to the space while still keeping sightlines open across the table.
A well-placed fixture adds warmth and helps define the dining area within a larger layout.
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Picture Light Over Artwork
A picture light is a simple way to highlight artwork and add another layer of lighting to your home.
For the best result, install the light about 6–10 inches above the top of the frame and keep it centered with the artwork. This allows the light to wash evenly over the piece without creating harsh shadows.
It’s a subtle addition that brings more focus and intention to your walls.
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Wall Sconces
Wall sconces can bring warmth and rhythm to a hallway, especially in spaces that might otherwise feel a little flat.
A good guideline is to mount sconces about 60–66 inches from the floor to the center of the fixture. If placing them alongside artwork or mirrors, keep them about 6–8 inches from the edge for a balanced look.
Consistent spacing helps the hallway feel cohesive and thoughtfully designed from one end to the other.
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Sconces Beside a Bed
Bedside sconces add both function and symmetry, making them a great alternative to table lamps.
Instead of measuring from the floor, focus on how the light works when you’re sitting in bed. Mount sconces about 24–30 inches above the mattress, or around shoulder height when seated.
This placement keeps the light comfortable for reading while maintaining a clean, balanced look on either side of the bed.
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Flat-Rate Virtual Design
If you’re looking for help pulling your own home together, my flat-rate room design package gives you a clear, cohesive plan—including paint color selection, furniture layout, lighting placement, styling ideas and product sourcing—so you can move forward with confidence and avoid second-guessing your decisions along the way.
And if you’re not quite ready for that yet or just want a little direction first, the Design Clarity Quiz is a simple way to get immediate feedback on your space and start moving in the right direction.