Installing a wall light fixture can upgrade a room in under an hour when the wiring is ready. Follow this clear UK focused guide for safe planning, correct wiring, and a clean finish.

Before you start

Safety and UK compliance

• Isolate the circuit at the consumer unit. Confirm with a voltage tester.
• Follow UK wiring colours. Brown is live. Blue is neutral. Green and yellow is earth.
• Work must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations in England and Wales.
• Bathroom zones and exterior locations may require notification. Use correct IP ratings.
• If unsure, use a qualified electrician.

Step by step installation

1. Plan position and height

• Mark centreline and height. Typical top of fixture sits at 150 to 170 cm from floor.
• For pairs, keep symmetrical spacing to mirrors, beds, or doors.
• Check cable exit and any studs or pipes with a detector.

2. Mount the bracket

• Hold the mounting plate level. Mark fixing holes.
• Drill pilot holes and fit wall plugs suited to wall type.
• Screw the plate tight. No wobble.

3. Prepare the wires

• Pull 10 to 15 mm of cable free from the wall for working room.
• Strip about 5 mm of insulation on each conductor.
• Twist any strands cleanly. No exposed copper beyond terminals.

4. Connect the wiring

• Connect brown to live L.
• Connect blue to neutral N.
• Connect green and yellow to earth symbol or terminal. Bond to backplate if provided.
• Tighten terminal screws fully. Tug test each conductor.

Tip keep conductors short and routed neatly so the body of the light sits flush.

5. Fit the body of the light

• Offer the fixture to the plate. Manage cables so they do not pinch.
• Secure with side or bottom screws as supplied.
• Check level again before final nip up.

6. Lamp and test

• Install a compatible LED bulb within the stated wattage limit.
• Restore power at the consumer unit.
• Test at the wall switch. If no light, isolate and recheck connections.

Bathroom and outdoor notes

• Match the IP rating to the zone. Example IP44 for many zone 2 locations.
• Use corrosion resistant fixings for coastal or outdoor sites.
• Consider a qualified electrician for all bathroom work.

Design tips from Vilera Design

• Pair wall lights at eye level for reading and ambience.
• Use warm white LEDs at 2700 to 3000 K for comfort.
• Align finishes across hardware. Brass with brass. Black with black.

Common questions

Can I wire a wall light into an existing switch

Yes if the switch loop and neutral are present at the location. Many older circuits route neutral at the ceiling. If neutral is not present, consult an electrician.

What height should bedside wall lights be

Centre of the light typically sits 120 to 140 cm from the floor. Aim to keep glare out of the eyes when seated.

Do I need a junction box

Use an enclosure if you need to join conductors that do not fit within the fixture backplate. Keep all live parts enclosed and strain relieved.

Next steps

Ready to choose the right fixture for your space. Explore our curated range for modern British style and reliable quality.

Browse the Vilera Design Wall Lights Collection