The entryway, or foyer, gives guests a taste of what to expect when they step into a home. Whether the lighting makes a bold statement or is subtle and subdued, it sets the tone for the rest of the home’s design. From large entry chandeliers to gorgeous pendants, the variety of foyer lighting ideas that highlight a home’s design are boundless.

Tips for Choosing Proportional Foyer Lighting

When selecting the perfect lighting for a foyer, begin by considering the scale of the foyer and any artwork, mirrors, or furniture that occupy the space and might need to be highlighted. Select lighting that complements the design and architecture of the home while providing the perfect glow.

If the foyer is tall, take into consideration the vertical space. A large pendant or chandelier that draws the eyes upward and interacts with the architecture of the home is a nice choice. When determining the scale of the lighting, use this simple calculation: foyer height + the foyer width (in feet) = how many inches wide the fixture can be. However, think of this as a guideline, not a hard and fast rule. Straying one way or the other will probably work, as long as it looks proportional. For instance, if the ceiling is extra high, the lighting can be 2-3 inches larger in diameter because the extra ceiling height can make it look smaller.

How High to Hang Foyer Lighting

The rule of thumb for hanging lighting for home entry is that the bottom of the chandelier or pendant should be at least seven feet above the floor. For example, in a single-story foyer where the ceilings are 9-12 feet high, the lighting should be no closer than 7 feet above the floor. However, if the foyer is two stories high, the bottom of the lighting should be hung so that it is level with the second floor. This means that the chandelier or pendant may be 8 feet or more above the floor.

Cameron 17 Inch Cage Pendant by Homeplace by Capital Lighting Fixture Company

European inspired scrolls add a decorative touch to the open silhouette of the Cameron 17 Inch Cage Pendant by Homeplace by Capital Lighting Fixture Company. The soft, curving lines accentuate the gently arched door, enhancing the simple lines of the space.

The Height of Foyer Lighting

The room’s height also influences the height of chandeliers or pendants installed in foyers. The chandelier or pendant should have 2-3 inches of height for each foot of ceiling height. This means that a 10-foot-high foyer ceiling should have a chandelier or pendant that is about 20-30 inches in height. A two-story foyer could easily accommodate a large chandelier or pendant of 32-48 inches in height.

Compass 40 Inch 8 Light Chandelier by Framburg

The high ceilings of this foyer beg for a dramatic statement piece like the Compass 40 Inch 8 Light Chandelier by Framburg, and this stunning lighting doesn’t disappoint. Seeded cylinders and crystals add a touch of glitter to these rustic spherical combinations. At 42 inches in height, it brings a touch of glam to the space.

E. F. Chapman Quincy 30 Inch Large Pendant by Visual Comfort and Co.

Just as spectacular and perfect for this one-story foyer, the E. F. Chapman Quincy 30 Inch Large Pendant by Visual Comfort and Co. features modern proportions and classic style. It brightens the space while highlighting its modern aesthetic.

Levels of Illumination for the Foyer

Pendants and chandeliers can offer different levels of illumination, depending on the total combined wattage of the bulbs they contain. This simple formula helps tailor the illumination based on the foyer’s square footage: multiply the foyer’s length by its width and then multiply that total by 1.5. This provides the wattage needed to give the proper illumination. As an example, a foyer that is 10 x 10 feet will have an area of 100 square feet. When multiplied by 1.5, the wattage of the lighting should be 150 watts.

Barbara Barry Capitol 23 Inch Cage Pendant by Visual Comfort and Co.

Perfectly illuminated by the Barbara Barry Capitol 23 Inch Cage Pendant by Visual Comfort and Co., this foyer’s simple style is echoed in the chandelier’s grace of form and simplicity of line. Timeless, classic, and fluid, the space welcomes family and friends alike.

Suzanne Kasler Morris 18 Inch Cage Pendant by Visual Comfort and Co.

There’s no rule that says two pendants can’t be used to get the right illumination. This pair of Suzanne Kasler Morris 18 Inch Cage Pendant by Visual Comfort and Co. make a charming complement to the space while providing the right amount of illumination.

Brenham 20 Inch Tall 3 Light Outdoor Wall Light by Progress Lighting

For big, open foyers with tall ceilings, consider hanging multiple fixtures at different heights. For example, this pair of Brenham 20 Inch Tall 3 Light Outdoor Wall Light by Progress Lighting at slightly different heights make a striking statement. The mixed-elements design offers a true farmhouse feel. The Progress Lighting Hemsworth 16 Inch Wall Sconce extends the farmhouse feel and style while adding illumination.

Match the Overall Feel of the Space

Aside from physical measurements, the home’s style and feel should guide the choice of foyer lighting. A crystal chandelier may look out of place in a rustic-style home, while a sleek, metal pendant may be perfect for a home with modern décor.

Paso Robles 15 Inch Mini Pendant by Troy Lighting

An example of rustic beauty chiseled out of iron, the Paso Robles 15 Inch Mini Pendant by Troy Lighting brings a warm, handmade feel to the foyer. They echo the arched shapes in the foyer, and the earthy and texturally rich design complements the overall style.

Wall Sconces to Light the Foyer

An excellent option for smaller foyers or to add illumination to larger spaces, wall sconces give entryways a welcoming glow without taking up valuable space on a console table. Mount them on either side of the door or the hallway leading from the foyer into the rest of the home. They are available in a variety of shapes, styles, and finishes that can pull together the look of a foyer. They also offer uplighting, downlighting, and multidirectional lighting to illuminate a variety of surfaces.

Monroe 24 Inch Wall Sconce by Savoy House

The long sleek body, white fabric shade, and classy visual silhouette of the Monroe 24 Inch Wall Sconce by Savoy House bring subtle style to this foyer. It suits transitional and classic styles, providing an even flattering wash of light.

With all the options available, there are so many ways to give a foyer both illumination and style. And when it comes down to it, personal preference and aesthetics are the guiding factors. To find foyer lighting ideas for every style and size, visit Capitol Lighting today. Or schedule a virtual consultation and speak with a specialist who can help you explore all the options.