Wall Sconce Buying Guide
Wall sconces are a versatile way to add both functional and decorative lighting to your home or business. They can provide ambient light, task lighting, or accent illumination while adding style without taking up valuable floor or surface space. From bathrooms and bedrooms to hallways, entryways, living rooms, and commercial spaces, use this guide to help choose the right wall sconces for your space.
- Choosing the Right Wall Sconce Size
The size of your wall sconce should complement the proportions of the wall, furniture, mirror, or architectural feature around it. A fixture that is too small may get lost on a large wall, while an oversized sconce can overwhelm a smaller space.
Before purchasing, consider the fixture's height, width, depth, and backplate dimensions. Also make sure there is enough clearance for doors, cabinets, mirrors, artwork, and nearby furniture.
- Wall Sconces for the Bathroom
Wall sconces are an excellent choice for bathroom and vanity lighting. Installing one sconce on each side of the mirror can provide more balanced illumination across the face and help reduce shadows.
As a general guideline, sconces positioned beside a bathroom mirror are often installed with the center of the fixture approximately 60 to 66 inches from the floor. Placement may vary depending on the height of the vanity, mirror, ceiling, and fixture.
When shopping for bathroom lighting, check the fixture's location rating to make sure it is suitable for the intended area.
- Wall Sconces for the Bedroom
Installing wall sconces on each side of the bed can provide convenient bedside lighting while freeing up space on nightstands. They can also create a clean, coordinated appearance in both traditional and contemporary bedrooms.
Consider the height of the bed, nightstands, and headboard when determining placement. The fixture should be positioned where it provides comfortable illumination for reading without creating glare.
- Hallways and Entryways
Wall sconces can add warmth and visual interest to hallways, stairways, and entryways while providing additional ambient lighting. For long hallways, multiple sconces can be spaced evenly to create a balanced appearance and consistent illumination.
Always consider how far the fixture extends from the wall, particularly in narrow hallways or high-traffic areas.
- Living Rooms and Accent Lighting
Sconces can be used to highlight fireplaces, artwork, architectural details, built-in shelving, or other focal points. They can also supplement chandeliers, pendants, recessed lighting, table lamps, and floor lamps to create layers of light throughout a room.
For decorative applications, consider installing sconces in pairs to create symmetry around a fireplace, console, artwork, or other feature.
- Upward, Downward, or Ambient Lighting
The direction of light can dramatically change the appearance and atmosphere of a room. Upward-facing sconces can create soft ambient illumination by reflecting light toward the ceiling, while downward-facing fixtures can provide more focused light.
Some sconces distribute light in multiple directions or through glass and translucent materials, creating a softer glow around the fixture. Consider the effect you want to achieve when selecting your design.
- Selecting the Right Style and Finish
Wall sconces are available in a wide range of designs, from simple and contemporary to decorative and traditional. Choose a style that complements your existing lighting, furniture, hardware, and overall interior design.
Satin brass can add warmth and elegance, while matte black provides a bold, modern appearance. Polished nickel and chrome offer a clean and sophisticated look, while bronze finishes can introduce warmth and traditional character.
Materials such as glass, alabaster, metal, fabric, and natural stone can add texture and further enhance the overall design.
- Consider Light Output
Determine whether your sconces will be used primarily for decorative lighting, general illumination, or a specific task. Bathroom and bedside sconces may require greater light output than fixtures being used primarily as decorative accents.
Review the recommended bulb type, maximum wattage, number of bulbs, and dimming compatibility. Using dimmable bulbs with a compatible dimmer can give you greater control over brightness and atmosphere. (Bulbs are not included unless specified otherwise. Only LED bulbs are recommended to be used.)
- Measure Before You Buy
Before ordering wall sconces, measure the available wall space and consider the location of electrical junction boxes, mirrors, cabinets, doors, furniture, and other fixtures.
Review the sconce's overall height, width, projection from the wall, and backplate dimensions. Taking accurate measurements beforehand can help ensure your sconces fit properly and look proportional within the space.
- Find the Perfect Wall Sconces
The right wall sconces can enhance both the appearance and functionality of your space. By considering size, placement, light direction, finish, materials, and light output, you can select fixtures that provide beautiful illumination while complementing the overall design of your home or business.