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.