How to split a lighting circuit in a single room into two rooms

rwdl1984 · 2025-01-22T20:10:38+0000

Hi there,

We had an extension done a few years back and the new bedroom has 8 downlights in it with two-way switching, one switch at one end of room and one switch at the other. It's a long narrow room. Because of that we want to split it in two with a stud wall to make better use of the space. We then want one switch to control the 4 lights in one room and the other switch to control the 4 lights in the other.

Firstly, is this possible and if so, how do you go about that?

Thanks in advance!

Lee Gold · 2025-01-22T20:32:52+0000

rwdl1984 said:
Hi there,

We had an extension done a few years back and the new bedroom has 8 downlights in it with two-way switching, one switch at one end of room and one switch at the other. It's a long narrow room. Because of that we want to split it in two with a stud wall to make better use of the space. We then want one switch to control the 4 lights in one room and the other switch to control the 4 lights in the other.

Firstly, is this possible and if so, how do you go about that?

Thanks in advance!

For Room 1, run a new cable from the existing switch to the 4 lights in that room.

For Room 2, run a new cable from the second switch to the 4 lights in that room.

If the switches do not already have independent feeds, you'll need to provide them by running cables from the junction box or consumer unit.

5. Modify the Switches: Convert the two-way switches into standard single-pole switches (if the two-way functionality is no longer needed), or keep them as two-way if you'd still like control from both ends of the room for each set of lights.

6. Test the Connections: Once rewired, test each switch to ensure it only controls the 4 lights in its corresponding room.

Comply with Regulations: Ensure the work complies with local wiring regulations (e.g., BS 7671 in the UK). You may need a qualified electrician to certify the work, especially if it involves adding new wiring.