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Lighting Design Dilemma

Help needed - fixture at top of stairs - how wide and style

2 years ago

I have long hated the fixture at the top of the second floor stair landing so I would like to replace it. First question is how big should the fixture be? From the top step to the back wall is 60". Thr width of the landing is 62". However to the right of the stairs, is a long thin area - 24" wide x 66" long. In other words, the width of the step 38" + 24" = 62". The current fixture hangs over the center of the entirety of the space, not directly over the top of the steps. I'm not planning to move the new fixture.

I prefer a more modern look. Ceiling height is standard 8 feet. Can a do a pendant or a small chandelier? How low should the be hung? I tend toward a mid-century modern look but I am not a fan of sputnic style fixtures unless the lights are at different heights.

First photo shows the area to the side of the steps. Second photo shows top step, landing and how it wraps to the side. Thirs photo gives an idea of the placement of the current fixture,

Thanks for any help and advice!

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Comments (6)

PRO
RL Relocation LLC
2 years ago
I would not put a hanging fixture there, not much call for it, as to MCM you have a pretty traditional oak staircase not sure you need anything too "crazy".

can you post a picture with the light off and looking at it from the upper hall?

I would be looking at a semi flush or a flush mount
a2zmom1 thanked RL Relocation LLC
Sharon Fullen
2 years ago
Semi-flush is an attractive look for this space.
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teresa_or
2 years ago
Not enough ceiling height for anything that would hang down. Agree with previous commenters that a flush or semi-flush fixture is the way to go. I would not exceed a fixture height (distance from ceiling) of approx. 12". I personally hate dark hallways and staircases, so I would also look for a fixture with more than 1 bulb.

Here are a few ideas - keeping in mind I have no idea what metal finishes you prefer or already have in your home.

Hinkley 3 Light Harper Semi Flush Mount, Heritage Brass · More Info

3-Light Semi Flush Mount, Soft Gold · More Info

Julien, 3-Light Semi Flush, Aged Brass Finish, Opal Matte Glass Shade · More Info

ED by Ellen DeGeneres Jane 3-Light Flush Mount · More Info

Lyrique 8 Light Semi-Flush Mount, Bronze with Brass Accents · More Info
a2zmom1
Original Author
2 years ago
It sounds like a semi-flush mount is the way to go. I like the options 2 and 3 above, hopefully they come in a nickel finish as the rest of the hardware is grey.

As requested, here are some pics. The first is a picture of the current light. I measured 75" from the floor to the bottom of the light so I suspect it is hanging too low. The second is a shot from my bedroom door. The door in the photo is on the other side of the stair well and leads to a large attic space. You can just see part of the light at the top.
PRO
RL Relocation LLC
2 years ago
yes semi flush of flush for sure, it will not feel so looming. tho the fixture you do have is a great light producer, so make sure to get something with 3 sockets.
a2zmom1
Original Author
2 years ago
I agree the current fixture is fairly bright but it is so not my taste.

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