One night your laying in bed and look up at the light, you then you begin to wonder….Why is my light not in the middle of the room!?
In this post I’m going to explain to you why its not in the middle of the room but nearer the window, if you can move it and also why you should consider leaving the light where it is.
Why Is My Light Fitting Near The Window?
Your light fitting is positioned near the window to prevent the light from casting a silhouette of your body against the window and curtains while you’re getting dressed or undressed, ensuring privacy from anyone outside.
If you think back to the time when the house was built, curtains were the standard window covering, and blinds hadn’t even been considered yet.
Unless you were very wealthy, your curtains likely didn’t have a backing to block the light, making it easy for your silhouette to be visible from outside.
Another reason for positioning the light fitting near the window was to mimic natural light as it would enter the room during the daytime. Additionally, dressing tables were commonly placed in front of windows, requiring adequate lighting in the evening for getting ready.
However, in the present and looking to the future, the practicality of preventing your body outline from being cast against the window makes more sense and reinforces this assumption.
Can I Move My Light Fixture Into The Middle Of The Room?
Yes of course!
Moving a light fixture into the middle of the room is quite a basic task if your a competent DIY’er.
If the distance you need to move the light isn’t too far, no extra wiring will be needed, just pull back the loft installation and relocate the wiring to the new spot.
Now if your moving the light quite a distance (a metre or further) then extra wiring and a junction box will be needed.
The only time it maybe difficult is if that light your moving contains the loop of the circuit for the upstairs lights, this is when i suggest you hire an electrician to do the work if you are unsure.
Be cautious if your ceiling features Artex, as Artex in period properties often contains asbestos. Always take proper precautions: wear a mask, eye protection, and cover the surrounding area where you’ll be drilling.
If you need to cut into the ceiling to install downlights instead of a pendant light, ensure you take every possible precaution to minimise dust and disturbance. Prioritise safety at every step to protect yourself and those around you.
One of the most handy tools you can have in your tool box if your renovating your property and fitting alot of downlighters is to purchase a Starrett DB2 Debris Collector.

This bit of kit will keep dust and mess to a bear minimum because everything will be caught in the collector.
A little tip when using the Starrett DB2 Debris Collector, once you have finished drilling the hole keep the collector up against the ceiling for a few seconds for the dust to settle before you remove it away from the hole 😉
How Much Does It Cost to Center a Light Fixture?
It’s not too expensive, to be honest. Here in the UK, you can expect to pay between £60 and £150, depending on factors like distance, difficulty, and time involved.
However, keep in mind that the electrician won’t repair the area where the original light was installed. You’ll need to handle that yourself or hire a handyman to take care of it.
Did This Post Help?
Hopefully, I’ve answered your question, “Why is my light not in the middle of the room?!” Now you know it can be moved… but will you move it or keep it where it is?
Personally, I’d keep it where it is and maybe opt for a spotlight fixture or add some stylish bedside lamps for extra lighting.
The thing is, if I moved it to the center, I might have to start charging the street for a peep show! Haha!
Let me know in the comments below if you’re planning to move yours or if you already have. Did you hire an electrician, and how much did it cost? I’d love to hear your experiences!
Each and every week I put my heart and soul into providing you with great content to help with any DIY jobs around the home.
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