Stairwells and staircases are often regarded as connecting areas within a home that you simply pass through when going upstairs or from room to room and lighting is frequently overlooked. This is a shame and a missed opportunity to create something really special. Having a light at the top and bottom of the staircase may not be enough to ensure the stairs are well lit and safe for you and your guests and having a well thought out lighting plan will create an even, balanced flow of light around your home. Bespoke Lights have a great selection of high quality light fittings that can provide attractive and practical lighting solutions for your hallways, staircases and stairwells. 

Stairwells and staircases come in all shapes and sizes and there is no one correct solution. The challenge is to achieve an integrated look that is warm, inviting and in keeping with your style of furnishings and the age of your property.  

If you are lucky enough to have  a big area with high ceilings you can be more adventurous with your choice of light fittings and a large lantern, chandelier or a cluster of pendants in the well of your staircase will create a real ‘wow factor’ as well as giving you an even spread of light. Large statement lights like this are certainly dramatic features and ideal for stairwells with open foyers and landings. Have a bit of fun as carefully selected modern fittings can work in period settings too! A little word of caution though – give some thought to how you will change the light bulbs when deciding where to position these large light fittings.  

Where space is an issue and you have a narrow staircase try opting for flush or semi-flush ceiling lights and or wall lights as opposed to pendant lights as this will create the illusion of more space. Bespoke Lights has a whole host of attractive lights that will allow you to create stylish solutions in the more confined areas or your home. 

A clever way to add interest and light to a stairwell is to use a few wall lights placed at intervals along the wall following the slope of the stairs. This classic look will cast gentle pools of light onto the wall and will often help to open up a cramped staircase. Wall lights that cast light both up and down are particularly effective in narrow stairwells. There are many beautiful wall lights and sconces available but please do check the size carefully, particularly the projection or depth, to ensure they are going to work in your space.

Another clever trick is to draw the eye forwards by lighting something ahead. This could be a decorative light fitting on a half landing of the staircase – perhaps a ceiling light, wall light or a picture light or spotlight over your favourite painting or photograph on the wall ahead. If you hang art work or pictures along the walls of your staircase then keep the height of the frames above the steps consistent and use small low energy or LED picture lights or spotlights above each picture as these will highlight the pictures as well as providing some additional down lighting on the steps.   Add a little drama to any corners with slim up and down wall lights and consider highlighting any special architectural features on the stairs. If space permits a hall table lamp can be used to create a soft glow.

An effective and stylish way to light modern staircases is to use recessed lighting which can be fitted just above the skirting rail, on the landing or even up and down the stairs themselves. 

Bespoke Lights have a fabulous range of light fittings to suit every situation and style. And if you cannot see exactly what you are looking for many of our lights can be custom made to your personal specification.

Looking to buy long drop stairwell lights or light fittings for high ceiling click here.

Check out our fabulous collection of hall lanterns here.

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