How do I find the right stairwell lamp?

Introduction: More than just a function—why your stairwell light is important

The stairwell is much more than just a functional transition area between two floors. It connects your living spaces and offers enormous design potential. With the right staircase lighting, you cannot only ensure safety, but also create a unique atmosphere. In this blog, we will show you step by step how to put your staircase in the perfect light – including tips from lighting professionals and the right lights from s.luce.

Well-planned stairwell lighting serves several purposes:

• Safety: Well-lit steps prevent falls.

• Orientation: You can find your way around quickly, even at night.

• Design: Your stairwell becomes a stylish calling card.

• Well-being: Pleasant light colors create atmosphere.

Especially at night, when you're sleepily stumbling through the house, you don't want to be blinded, but you also don't want to be standing in the dark. That's why you should rely on well-thought-out lighting concepts that make the steps visible and at the same time radiate coziness.

Before we get into the planning, here are a few ideas for attractive stairwell lighting:

1. Light the edges of the steps – for maximum safety.
   
   

2. Choosesoft, glare-free lighting – especially for nighttime use.
   
   

3. Define light zones – think separately about the beginning, middle, and end of the staircase.
   
   

4. Match the light color – ideally warm white with 2700–3000 Kelvin.
   
   

5. Integrate a dimming function – for flexible lighting moods.
   
   

6. Use motion detectors – efficient and convenient.

Your stairwell consistsof several areas – and each one needs light:

• Entrance: This is where the lighting concept begins. Pendant lights or wall lights are ideal, e.g., the s.luce orbformodern, elegant illumination.

• Landings: Ideal for accent lighting with spotlights or wall spotlights.

• The steps themselves: This is where the art of indirect lighting comes into play – e.g., with the s.luce wall recessed light.

Pro tip: Use several types of lights in combination. This creates depth, contrast, and functionality.

Depending on the architecture, available space, and your taste, you have various options:

1. Indirect light gaps

Ideal for minimalist designs. LED strips are installed between the wall and the stairs, for example.

s.luce Wall installation: This elegant solution can be integrated perfectly flush into walls and provides an even band of light along the stairs.

. Surface-mounted lights on the wall

Timeless and practical. Can also be retrofitted.

Our recommendation: s.luce Ixa wall light– small, stylish, powerful.

3. Light in the handrail

Modern, glare-free, and space-saving. LED strips in or under the handrail offer safety and aesthetics.

Can be combined with the s.luce Beam series for basic lighting.

4. Step lighting

LED strips or spots directly under the steps create a floating feeling.

Particularly in combination with the s.luce Orb, ideal for detailed lighting design.

5. Light lines and spotlights in the wall

Recessed lights along the wall – stylish and functional.

The s.luce Beam can be used to create subtle lighting effects.

6. Pendant lights for open stairwells

A real highlight – pendant lights that rise up from the ceiling create a cozy atmosphere.

Our recommendation: s.luce ring – modern, elegant, and available in various sizes.

The color of light has a huge impact on the atmosphere:

• 2700–3000 Kelvin: Warm white – perfect for living areas and stairwells.

• 4000 Kelvin: Neutral white – for functional areas.

• >5000 Kelvin: Daylight white – only recommended for commercial areas.

Our s.luce lights are available in different light colors – many of which are also dimmable!

s.luce Favorites for your staircase lamp

Here are our Top 6 lights for your staircase area: