Top 5 Bedroom Wall Light Ideas for an Elegant, Restorative Feel
Well-planned, intentional bedroom lighting is essential for creating a space that supports both relaxation and functionality. Whether you’re winding down after a hard day’s work or settling in with a good book, the right lighting can significantly impact your mood and comfort.
A well-chosen wall light not only provides the right illumination for the space but also contributes to the room’s ambience, which in turn affects your well-being.
From adjustable reading lights to stylish fixtures that bring personality to your room, the right light can make a world of difference in your bedtime routine.
Who doesn’t want a warm and soothing atmosphere, just the tonic for the end of a long day?
In this article, we’ll explore five top bedroom wall light ideas and answer all the key questions to help you achieve the perfect bedroom lighting setup, whatever your needs.
Our top 5 picks are:
1. The Cast Wall Scone by Audo Copenhagen
2. Hooked Wall Light with Shade by Buster + Punch
3. Type 80 W2 Wall Light by Anglepoise
4. Hector Dome Wall Light by Original BTC
5. Tip Wall Light by Muuto
The Top 5 bedroom wall lights
1. The Cast Wall Sconce by Audo Copenhagen
Designed by Thomas Chung & Jordan Murphy, this sleek and minimalist bedroom wall light has taken its design inspiration from functional cast metal objects.
It provides glare-free illumination which is perfect for reading and bringing a soft, relaxing ambience. It also gives off a warm and inviting hue, and works really well for mood lighting rather than direct task lighting.
For customisable lighting to suit your needs, it also offers mains dimming. The Cast Wall Sconce by Audo Copenhagen comes with a replaceable G9 bulb which is simple to conveniently change.
If you have a contemporary look in your bedroom and want a matching bedroom wall light for reading and more, we recommend this sophisticated light solution.
2. The Hooked Wall Light with Shade by Buster + Punch
Enjoy a unique industrial look with The Hooked Wall Light with Shade by Buster + Punch.
With a built-in customisable height feature found in its solid metal hook, the lamp can be raised or lowered, making it versatile for reading, accent lighting and ambient lighting. Pair this with its shade which is angled directly down, and you get focused light, ideal for reading or task lighting.
Beautifully finished with powder-coated metal, it is available in solid brass, stainless steel or smoked bronze to blend cohesively into your bedroom aesthetics. Additionally, it comes with a unique hooked cord detail for a statement look.
What is so unique about this wall lamp is the detailing of the cross-knurl pattern on the pendant, which adds texture and depth to your bedroom.
While it's well-suited to reading, it also serves as a beautiful fixture for ambient lighting, adding warmth and character to the room.
Did you know…
The best lighting for reading is focused, adjustable, and glare-free light. Wall-mounted lights with directional shades or adjustable arms provide targeted illumination without straining your eyes and dimmable lights adapt to different reading conditions.
3. The Type 80 W2 Wall Light by Anglepoise
If you’re someone who enjoys a few bedside tasks before sleep, then a high-functioning, contemporary look lamp like The Type 80 W2 Wall Light by Anglepoise could be just the answer.
Designed specifically for focused task light, its adjustable shade directs light exactly where needed, reducing glare, its adjustable arm means you can choose the perfect angle that works for you.
Its dimmable feature allows full control over brightness for eye health and the comfort of your eyes, and another reason why a great bedroom wall light idea is the wall-mounted design that keeps your bedside table clear and clutter-free.
Energy efficient with its LED bulbs and its high-quality construction, it's a fine choice for those who need bedroom wall light reading inspiration.
4. Hector Dome Wall Light by Original BTC
The Hector Dome Wall Light by Original BTC is a British design classic.
With an adjustable translucent bone china shade, a complementary wall plate, and a cotton braided cable, it offers all the versatility you need for your bedroom wall light.
The movable shade allows for targeted lighting, making it ideal for all kinds of tasks, reading and beyond. Crafted by skilled artisans in Stoke-on-Trent, each piece is made using traditional ceramic techniques.
For those who like soft, warm and diffused light in their bedroom, so they can get on with their tasks in a cosy setting, the Hector Dome light is a traditional, stylish choice.
Choose from a range of cover materials and two base shades for customisation.
5. Tip Wall Light by Muuto
Compact and understated, The Tip Wall Light by Muuto is a minimalist functional fixture with a contemporary moulded aluminium body and a matte finish.
Its integrated LED provides energy-efficient illumination, adjustable via the built-in dimmer for customised brightness. That means you can effortlessly switch between task lighting and ambient lighting to suit your mood.
Crafted for modern bedrooms, it is a wise choice due to its precise, directional lighting which can be adjusted via the head and arm, so the angle of the light is at your disposal.
Available in four neutral colours, the Tip Wall Light offers a refined, versatile lighting solution with a soft yet focused light.
Bedroom wall light ideas: Answering all your questions
Find out everything you need to know about finding the best high-end, luxury wall light to level up your illumination.
What is the ideal light brightness for reading?
The ideal light brightness for reading is 400 to 600 lumens, providing enough illumination without causing eye strain. A warm white LED (2700K-3000K) is best for reading in a bedroom because it mimics the softer, golden tones of natural sunlight at sunrise and sunset.
This creates a cosy and comfortable glow that helps reduce eye strain and calms us physiologically in a way that imitates nature, so you can wind down before sleep the natural way.
Cooler, blue-toned lights (4000K+) are harsher and can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. That’s why warm white LEDs are the better choice for bedroom lighting.
Where should lights be placed in a bedroom?
It all depends on how you use your space and what kind of lighting suits your needs.
Here’s a breakdown by category:
Bedside wall lights (For reading & task lighting)
- Position between 120cm to 150cm from the floor, depending on your bed height.
- Install it 30cm to 50cm from the edge of the bed to avoid glare while reading.
- Example: Opt for dimmable or directional lights like the Type 80 W2 by Anglepoise for flexibility.
Ambient Wall Lighting (For general illumination)
- Mount at eye level (about 160cm to 180cm from the floor) for balanced light distribution.
- If installing multiple, space them 1.5m to 2m apart for even lighting.
- Example: Soft-glow fixtures like the Hector Dome Wall Light by Original BTC provide an ideal ambience.
Accent wall lights (For decoration & mood lighting)
- Typically above furniture or artwork (around 150cm to 170cm).
- Use warm, low-wattage bulbs to create a cosy, layered effect in alcoves or feature walls.
- Example: Subtle fixtures like the Cast Sconce by Audo Copenhagen.
Note: Consider installing a separate switch or dimmer for bedside and ambient lighting for added flexibility.
Why are dimmable lights good for bedroom reading?
Dimmable options allow flexibility, letting you adjust brightness based on the time of day.
Additionally, dimmable lights help reduce eye strain by enabling you to set the intensity of light to a comfortable level. This means if you choose to read for an extended period, your eyes are protected.
It is also worth noting that positioning is key—lights should be placed at eye level when sitting up to create an even, comfortable glow.
Are LED lights good in a bedroom?
Yes, LED lights are an excellent choice for a bedroom. They are energy-efficient and long-lasting, and generate less heat than traditional bulbs.
Many LED bulbs are dimmable, so you can adjust the brightness to suit your needs and come in warm white (2700K-3000K) which is the ideal hue for a cosy, relaxing atmosphere
How to layer lighting in a bedroom for the best effect
The key to a well-lit bedroom is layering different types of lighting.
- Ambient lighting: Ceiling lights or wall sconces for the general illumination of the room.
- Task lighting: Bedside wall lights or adjustable lamps for reading.
- Accent lighting: LED strips, picture lights, or decorative sconces to highlight features.
Note: Install dimmers for customisable lighting and to set the right mood.
How to choose the right wall light for your bedroom
Choosing the perfect bedroom wall light isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about functionality, comfort, and how the lighting suits your space.
Here are the main factors to consider:
Size & scale
Wall lights should be proportionate to your bedroom size and furniture.
Oversized sconces can overwhelm a small space, while tiny fixtures may get lost in a large room. A good rule of thumb is to choose bedside wall lights that are 25cm to 40cm in height for a balanced look.
Note: Bedside wall lights should typically be mounted 120cm to 150cm from the floor, depending on the height of your bed and mattress. If the light has an adjustable arm, positioning it slightly lower can improve ease of use.
Brightness & light temperature
The ideal brightness depends on the purpose of the light:
- Reading & task lighting: 400 to 600 lumens (Warm white LED: 2700K to 3000K).
- Ambient lighting: Softer glow around 200 to 400 lumens.
- Accent lighting: Decorative, low-level lighting below 300 lumens
Note: Warmer tones (2700K to 3000K) mimic the golden hues of natural light, creating a calming atmosphere perfect for bedrooms.
Adjustability & directional control
If you use wall lights for reading or tasks, adjustable fixtures with a swivel or articulating arm allow you to direct light exactly where you need it. Fixed sconces work better for general ambient lighting.
Dimmable lights for mood-setting
A dimmable wall light gives you control over brightness, allowing you to switch from bright task lighting to a soft, relaxing glow for winding down in the evening.
Hardwired vs. plug-in options
Before purchasing, consider how your lights will be powered.
Hardwired
Hardwired wall lights are sleek with that wire-free look. They are controlled by a wall switch or a smart system and are more permanent, having been built into the room’s design.
However, they do require professional installation and less flexibility if you want to rearrange your space.
Plug-in
Easy to install by just mounting and plugging into a standard socket, these types of wall lights are ideal for renters who want flexibility.
They often come with built-in dimmers or switches but are usually found to have visible wires. They also need to be close to a power socket.
Which one you choose is based on your needs and lifestyle. Ultimately, your choice depends on the balance between aesthetics, convenience, and long-term use.
Choosing the right bedroom wall light is all about creating a space that supports relaxation, functionality, and your personal style.
By considering factors like adjustability, brightness, and placement, you can craft a perfectly lit bedroom that marries comfort and productivity all in one.
At Holloways of Ludlow, we pride ourselves on our carefully curated collection of luxury lighting, from wall lights and bedside table lamps to floor lamps and statement pendants.
Discover iconic lighting designs, Danish classics, modern innovations and more from our full range today.