How Many Inches Should a Light Fixture Be From a Table?

Hang lights at the correct height over a table.

Inches from Table

Light fixtures should not be hung too high or too low from a tabletop. According to Heavenly Lights, the bottom of the light fixture should hang between 30 and 34 inches off of the tabletop. This is the general distance that most light fixtures are placed above a table, but if you prefer your lights to be higher or lower, you can certainly adjust suspension based upon personal preference.

Ceiling Height

The general rule of a 30- to 34-inch distance from tabletop to light base is based upon a room that has an 8-foot ceiling. If your ceiling is taller than 8 feet, you should add 3 inches of suspension for every extra foot of ceiling above 8 feet. If it is smaller than 8 feet, you should subtract 3 inches of suspension for every foot below 8 feet.

Bottom Line

The base of your light fixture should hang 30 to 34 inches above the table. If your room has a ceiling larger or smaller than 8 feet, you should make adequate adjustments.