How to Choose the Right Light Fixture Size and Hang Length

Lighting can define the feel of a space—but only if it’s sized and positioned correctly. At Brass Light Gallery, we make it easy to get it right the first time. With expert guidance, custom sizing in 1-inch increments, and 0 returns in the past year, we ensure your fixture fits perfectly, every time.

What is OAL?

OAL stands for Overall Length. It’s a crucial measurement that determines how low a fixture will hang from the ceiling to its lowest visible point, including any shades. Getting the OAL right means achieving both optimal function and beautiful proportion in your space.

Determining the Ideal Hang Length

For Exterior Fixtures

Choosing the best OAL for exterior lights depends on ceiling height and architectural details like door height, transom windows, and the overall scale of the area. Our chain and stem mount fixtures are custom-made to your specifications, starting from the minimum fixture length and increasing in 1-inch increments.

We encourage customers to send in photos and dimensions so our sales team can guide you to the ideal size and scale for your outdoor lighting.

For Indoor Fixtures

  • Use ceiling height as a starting point, then adjust based on room type:
  • Kitchen Islands: Hang fixtures so the bottom is 68″ to 76″ above the floor.
  • Dining Tables: Ideal hang height is 60″ to 66″ from the floor.
  • Foyers: For standard 8′ ceilings, hang fixtures so the bottom is at 6’8″. This aligns with door heights and feels natural even in entryways with taller ceilings.
  • Powder Rooms: For sconces beside a mirror, place the electrical box so the light source is about 60″ from the floor—eye level for most people. Horizontally, allow 2-4 inches between the sconce and the mirror for visual balance.

Understanding Scale: How Big Should the Fixture Be?

Selecting the correct fixture diameter (or bowl size) is just as important as hang height. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Dining tables: 18″ to 24″
  • Breakfast nooks: 15″ to 19″
  • Hallways (8′ ceiling): 12″ to 16″
  • Single-story foyers or wide hallways: 15″ to 19″
  • Two-story foyers or great rooms: 24″ to 36″

Lantern Height vs. Overall Length

When browsing our exterior lanterns, you’ll see two key measurements:

  1. Lantern Height refers to the fixture body itself.
  2. Overall Length (OAL) includes the lantern and mounting components up to the ceiling canopy.

Both measurements are important. The lantern height helps determine scale, while OAL ensures it fits your ceiling height and looks balanced in your space.

Need Help? We’re Here For You

Our expert sales team is ready to help you get the right fixture, the first time. With 0 returns in the past year, our advice works. Send us photos, room measurements, or architectural details—we’ll take care of the rest.

We even offer free lantern samples to qualified buyers in the continental U.S. so you can see the quality and scale before making a decision.