Wall Sconces for the Home
Posted on February 4, 2023

Nothing can provide your home with warmth, friendliness and drama like a wall sconce. Vintage, modern and everything in between,the wall lamp can be styled in any multitude of ways. Illuminate rooms, spotlight wall art or create an ambiance and save floor space. Learn about arranging and styling wall fixtures in a range of spaces in your home.

In the Bathroom
Apply makeup, fix hair, face-wash and brush teeth in true, flattering light. Create a makeshift light-up vanity by placing paired sconces on either side of the mirror over the sink. If your bathroom has double (or multiple) mirrors, place a light between each one to best illuminate the reflection and keep the glass free of intrusive shadows. Soft wall lighting can be used in conjunction with and supplement brighter overheads or used on their own. The gentle glow of the lamps alone produces enough light by which to see without blinding a nighttime bathroom-goer. They add a feeling of luxury to the space, giving it a hotel-like look. Keep the lighting mild and subdued when pampering yourself in the bath or shower for a feeling of ultimate indulgence.

In the Entryway
Wall lighting adds a warm touch to the first space your guests encounter. The entryway should be unintimidating, welcoming and representative of your personal home decor style. Arrange a sconce or line several above the console table or sideboard against the wall to illuminate the area. If you've hung a wall mirror there, arrange one light on either side to brighten. If you have a coat rack and umbrella just inside the doorway, make sure the fixtures you choose provide enough light to see where you're leaving your coat and shoes. Because there's often not space for a floor lamp, wall lighting opens up the hall for more furniture. It can also spotlight wall art and home decor arranged on floating wall shelves. If anything, entryway wall sconces create a friendly atmosphere and set the tone for the rest of the home.

In the Bedroom

When reading in bed late at night, you need a source of light that is bright enough to see, but not so harsh that it impedes your sleep schedule. Wall lamps provide the perfect nighttime glow, with soft tones and a chic protective shade. Position them just above your nightstand or bedside table, just a few inches above your head. Do take height into account when installing the lights—if the lamp is placed too low to the bed, the bulb may shine into your eyes when you lie down. Place a few feet directly above your head for a focused feel. The shade of the fixture will also play a role in this. If you want your light to sit higher up the wall, look for fixtures with shades that extend all the way down over the bulb, to prevent harsh, intrusive light beams. If arranging for a king- or queen-sized bed, think about placing a matching pair on each side, especially if the bed is shared. Twin- and full-sized beds in children's rooms will likely need only one sconce.