Choosing Wall Sconces & Accent Lighting
Wall sconces add light directly to the wall, making them a useful choice when you want to illuminate a space without using floor or table space. They can also add a decorative element to areas such as bathrooms, bedrooms, hallways, entryways, living rooms, and dining spaces.
Wall Sconces for Different Spaces
In bathrooms, wall sconces are often placed beside a mirror to provide light around the vanity area. In bedrooms, a wall-mounted light can serve as an alternative to a bedside lamp while keeping the nightstand clear. Hallways and entryways can benefit from the compact footprint of wall-mounted lighting, while living and dining spaces offer opportunities to use sconces beside mirrors, artwork, fireplaces, or other focal points.
Style, Finish, and Light
Wall sconces are visible pieces of a room even when they are turned off, so the fixture's shape, finish, and shade are worth considering alongside the existing space. Glass shades can add transparency or texture, while metal finishes can coordinate with other hardware and lighting. The way a shade directs or diffuses light also affects the fixture's overall appearance.
What to Consider Before Choosing
Start with the available wall space and check the fixture's width, height, and projection before ordering. Projection is especially important in hallways, beside beds, and other areas where people may pass close to the wall. For bathroom and other moisture-prone locations, check the product's listed location rating. Hardwired wall sconces also require a suitable electrical connection and should be installed according to the product requirements.