5 Things to Consider When Choosing a Wall Light for Reading

When it comes to creating a cozy reading nook or enhancing the functionality of your bedroom or living room, selecting the right wall light is essential. Whether you're an avid reader or enjoy unwinding with a good book before bed, here are five important factors to consider when choosing a wall light for reading:

1. Directional Lighting:

Opt for a wall light that offers directional illumination, such as a swing-arm, adjustable wall sconce, or a rotating shade or light source. This allows you to direct the light precisely where you need it, whether it's focused on the pages of your book or turned towards a wall or ceiling to provide ambient lighting for the surrounding area. Browse our selection of Directional/Spot Lights.

The Mantis from DCW éditions (left) and the AJ from Louis Poulsen (right) are two iconic lighting designs that are available as wall lights. Both offer directional illumination: The Mantis Wall can be adjusted to direct lighting where you want through its swing arm. Meanwhile, the AJ’s wall version lets you rotate the shade and turn the light toward or away from you for a more direct or ambient illumination.

2. Brightness and Colour Temperature:

Consider the brightness and colour temperature of the light source. For reading, it's crucial to choose a wall light with adequate brightness to prevent eye strain. We recommend 200lm-300lm for a task light with a narrow beam spread, and 500lm-800lm for a light with more dispersed beam spread for ambiance. Additionally, opt for bulbs with a colour temperature in the range of 2700K to 3000K, which mimics the warm, soft glow of natural daylight and creates a comfortable reading environment. (Need a refresher on lumens and Kelvins in colour temperature? Consult our Lighting Glossary!)

Bonus: We love a dim-to-warm feature, especially in a bedroom setting, to make your environment more conducive to nightly reading without disrupting your sleep!

Tala offers a variety of dim-to-warm bulbs, including the one featured in the Alumina that can work as a table lamp or mounted on your wall.

3. Adjustable Features:

Look for wall lights with adjustable features that cater to your specific reading preferences. Features like dimmer switches or multiple brightness settings allow you to customize the lighting level according to the time of day, your mood, or the type of reading material. Check out our wide selection of Bedside Reading Wall Lights for more.

“I love the sleek, compact, and unobtrusive look of the Mira Wall Light from Davide Groppi. Plus, its adjustable head and dimmable features let you set the mood exactly how you like it,” says Toronto Account Executive Kaitlin H.

4. Design and Aesthetics:

Consider the design and aesthetics of the wall light to ensure it complements your existing decor and adds a touch of style to your space. Whether you prefer a sleek and modern look or a more traditional design, choose a wall light that helps you achieve the specific mood and style you’re creating in your reading area.

“I love the Glifo from Penta’s geometric and sexy proportions. It adds a subtle sculptural element to your space that makes a big impact,” shares Toronto Account Executive Karin K.

5. Installation and Placement:

Lastly, think about the installation and placement of the wall light. Consider factors such as the height at which the light will be mounted, the distance from the reading area, and any obstacles or furniture that may affect the light's positioning. Proper placement ensures optimal lighting coverage and enhances the reading experience.

The Post Wall Light from Muuto features a magnetic joint that allows for flexible positioning, dimming, and rotation, catering to individual lighting preferences. With the ability to arrange the cord in various configurations and expand the lighting system with additional units, the Post Wall Light provides versatility and customization for any space.

For more renter-friendly options or if you just don’t want the hassle of drilling into your walls, there are plenty of Plug-in Wall Lights to choose from. They allow you to avoid having to do any hard wiring and use simple cord to plug into the closest outlet. Read more about the benefits of plug-in wall lights here.

In conclusion, selecting the perfect wall light for reading involves careful consideration of factors such as directional lighting, brightness, adjustability, design, and installation. By prioritizing these aspects, you can create a well-lit and inviting reading space that caters to your comfort and enjoyment.

Curious to explore more? Browse our selection of wall lights online, or visit our showrooms to see some in person and get help from our lighting experts.