Wall Sconces
About Wall Sconces
Wall Sconces for Hallways, Bedsides and Living Rooms
A sconce is the most flexible light in the house. Mounted in pairs, it frames a bed, a fireplace or a doorway; set in a row, it turns a dark corridor into a welcoming passage. The selection here runs from vintage barn lights in black iron to scalloped marble, pleated lotus shades, frosted torch glass, cement uplights, feather and leaf shaped acrylic and slim modern bars. You will also find wireless picture lights, clip reading lamps and swing arm designs, so there is an option for walls with a junction box and walls without one.
Choosing sconces that look right
- Scale to the wall: On a large blank wall or beside a king bed, a taller or wider sconce holds its own. In a powder room or narrow hall, a compact shape keeps things tidy.
- Bulb or integrated LED: Sconces with sockets let you change brightness and color later with a new bulb. Integrated LED designs are slimmer and need no bulb changes, but the light color is chosen up front.
- Shade and glare: Open bulbs sparkle but can glare at eye level. Frosted glass, fabric and stone shades keep the source hidden.
- Mounting: Hardwired sconces need a junction box and an electrician, while plug in versions hang from screws with a cord running to an outlet.
Placement tip: Beside a fireplace, hang sconces a few inches above the top edge of the mantel and set them in from its ends. They frame the chimney breast and light whatever you display on the shelf.
Need adjustable light for reading? See swing arm sconces. For height and spacing, our wall sconce height and spacing guide has the details.
Common Questions About Wall Sconces
Around 60 to 66 inches from the floor to the center of the fixture works in most living rooms and hallways. Go a little higher in rooms with very tall ceilings, and lower beside a bed so the light lands on your book.
For a hardwired sconce, yes, unless you are experienced with household wiring. If there is no junction box where you want the light, a plug in or rechargeable sconce avoids opening the wall.
It looks best to repeat one style within a single sightline, like a pair beside a bed. You can change styles from room to room, and a shared finish such as black or brass keeps the house consistent.
