Wall Mounted Reading lights

Wall Reading Light Types: Swing Arm, Fixed and Flexible Neck

Three main designs cover bedside and desk reading wall lights, each with different adjustability and installation requirements.

Swing arm wall lights: A hinged arm extends and retracts horizontally from a wall-mounted pivot point. Most swing arms have a reach of 40-70cm from the wall. The arm can be pulled forward over a bed or desk for reading and pushed back flat against the wall when not in use. The most versatile reading wall light design for bedside use.

Fixed directional wall lights: A non-adjustable fitting with the lamp head angled at a fixed direction. Suitable where the reading position is consistent and the fitting position can be planned in advance. Less expensive than adjustable versions but cannot be repositioned after installation.

Flexible neck (gooseneck) wall lights: A bendable cable or gooseneck arm allows the lamp head to be positioned at any angle within the neck's range. Maximum flexibility, but the neck can fatigue over time at repeated bending points.

Mounting Height for Bedside Reading Wall Lights

The correct mounting height for a bedside reading wall light is 30-40cm above the top of the mattress, centred horizontally on the sleeping position. For a standard divan bed at 600mm mattress height, this places the fitting at 900-1,000mm above the floor.

The arm reach should bring the lamp head to within 500-700mm of the reading position (the pillow area) when extended. A fitting mounted too high puts the lamp above eye level and creates a top-down shadow. Too low, and the shade is in sightline when lying flat.

Plug-In vs Hardwired Reading Wall Lights

Plug-in wall lights connect to a standard 13A socket and require no electrical installation. The socket and cable are visible unless concealed behind furniture. Suitable for rental properties or rooms where hardwiring is not practical.

Hardwired reading wall lights are connected to a fused spur or switched circuit in the wall. The cleanest installation with no visible cable. Requires an electrician for installation. Suitable for new builds, renovations, and rooms where a permanent position is certain.

Related Collections

Indoor wall lights covers the full wall light range. Decorative wall lights covers non-directional ornamental fittings. For table lamps as an alternative to bedside wall lights, see table lamps. For ceiling lights in bedrooms, see flush ceiling lights.