Choosing the correct light fixture overall length helps create comfortable clearance, balanced proportions and a fixture that fits the architecture of the space. Use this guide to estimate the appropriate hanging height for chandeliers, pendants, ceiling lanterns and exterior hanging lights.
These measurements are helpful starting points. Always consider the specific fixture dimensions, ceiling conditions, furniture placement and installation requirements before ordering.
Overall length, commonly abbreviated as OAL, is the complete vertical measurement from the ceiling to the lowest point of the installed fixture.
Depending on the fixture, the overall length may include the canopy, chain, stem, fixture body, glass, shade and decorative components.
Fixture height measures only the main body of the fixture. Overall length includes the mounting components that suspend the fixture from the ceiling.
Formula: Ceiling height minus desired fixture clearance equals the approximate overall length.
Example: A room has a 10 foot ceiling, which equals 120 inches. If the bottom of the fixture must remain 84 inches above the floor, the maximum overall length would be approximately 36 inches.
Position the bottom of the fixture approximately 30 to 36 inches above the tabletop. Measure from the table surface rather than the floor because table heights can vary.
Position the bottom of a pendant or hanging fixture approximately 30 to 36 inches above the counter. Confirm that the fixture does not interfere with sightlines across the kitchen.
Maintain at least 7 feet of clearance between the floor and the bottom of the fixture in areas where people will walk underneath it.
Maintain comfortable walking clearance while considering how the fixture appears from the entrance, nearby rooms and upper levels. In a two story foyer, the fixture may also be positioned to coordinate with an architectural window or staircase.
For exterior hanging fixtures, consider ceiling height, door height, transom windows, door movement and the scale of the entrance. Maintain appropriate walking clearance and verify that the fixture will not interfere with the door or surrounding architecture.
Some Brass Light Gallery chain and stem mounted fixtures are available with different overall lengths. Minimum lengths, available adjustments and mounting requirements vary by model.
Before ordering, review the product specifications and confirm the following measurements:
Lantern height and overall length are different measurements.
A lantern body may measure 18 inches tall while the complete installed fixture has a longer overall length because of the canopy, chain, stem or mounting hardware.
Overall length determines how low the fixture hangs, while width and diameter determine how large it appears in the room. Both measurements should be reviewed before ordering.
For detailed diameter and proportion recommendations, review our ceiling light and chandelier size guide.
Measure the space carefully and compare the available height with the fixture specifications. If you need assistance, send Brass Light Gallery photographs and measurements of the room, ceiling, table, island, doorway or exterior entry.
Our team can help you review the fixture dimensions and available mounting options before ordering. Final installation requirements should be confirmed with a qualified electrician.
Explore our handcrafted indoor lighting and solid brass outdoor lighting, or contact Brass Light Gallery for assistance.
OAL means overall length. It is the complete installed measurement from the ceiling to the lowest point of the light fixture.
Subtract the desired height of the fixture’s lowest point from the ceiling height. The remaining measurement is the approximate overall length needed.
The bottom of the fixture should generally hang approximately 30 to 36 inches above the tabletop.
The bottom of the pendant should generally hang approximately 30 to 36 inches above the island or counter surface.
Maintain at least 7 feet of clearance in open areas where people will walk underneath the fixture.
Some chain and stem mounted fixtures are available with different overall lengths. Available adjustments, minimum lengths and mounting requirements vary by fixture.
