Choose Phase|Step 9 of 37
Choose Wall Sconces
Sconces add an extra layer of light at eye level, creating warmth and dimension that ceiling fixtures alone can't achieve.
Time Required
1-2 hours shopping
Cost
$50-$200 per sconce
Difficulty
Easy (shopping)
Where to Use Sconces
Bathroom Vanity
Flanking mirror is ideal. Eliminates shadows on face. Install at 60-65 inches from floor to center.
Hallways
Add warmth to otherwise dark corridors. Space every 8-10 feet. Consider at 60-66 inches high.
Flanking Bed or Fireplace
Symmetrical pairs create balance. Bedside sconces free up nightstand space.
Living Room Accent
Either side of artwork, console, or sofa. Adds layer without floor lamps.
Placement Guidelines
- Mounting height: 60-66 inches from floor to center of sconce. Eye level.
- Bathroom spacing: 36-40 inches apart when flanking mirror.
- Hallway spacing: 8-10 feet apart. Closer if ceiling is low.
- Bedside: 4-6 inches above mattress top. Swing-arm for adjustability.
- Pair them: Sconces almost always look best in matched pairs.
Sconce Styles
- Up-light: Directs light upward. Soft ambient glow. Less task lighting.
- Down-light: Focuses light down. Better for reading, hallways.
- Up/down: Light from both directions. Dramatic wall wash effect.
- Swing-arm: Adjustable position. Perfect for bedside reading.
- Plug-in: No hardwiring needed. Cord visible. Renter-friendly option.
Pro Tips
- •Consider the bulb: Exposed bulb sconces need pretty bulbs. Edison or frosted globe.
- •Hardwired vs. plug-in: Hardwired looks cleaner. Plug-in is easy and renter-friendly.
- •Scale to space: Large sconces in big rooms, petite in tight spaces.
- •ADA compliance: Commercial spaces need sconces that don't protrude more than 4 inches.