
The exact dimensions of your sconce will largely depend on personal taste. Since sconces come in all shapes and sizes, from mini sconces less than 13” to tall and oversized sconces. ADA sconces, in particular, extend less than four inches from the wall, making them ideal choices in small spaces or in areas where a protruding sconce may pose a safety hazard. If, however, you need a slimmer silhouette, look for sconces with arms positioned close to the backplate or that have no arm at all. If you need directed task lighting, sconces with arms that arch from the backplate or are adjustable are ideal. And sconce arms often affect how far the fixture protrudes from the wall. Some designers use uniquely-shaped or boldly-accented backplates to add flair to this style of fixture, so if your style sensibility tends toward the avant-garde, look for backplates that offer an interesting twist. Shades frequently make the most impact in the style of a sconce, so finding a sconce with a shade that matches your aesthetic is an easy way to add cohesion to your space. To find the best sconce for your style and space, consider how these three design elements interact and what kind of statement you want to make. This sconce part can also be fixed or moveable-if you prefer a sconce with an adjustable arm, search for swing arm fixtures! Sconce arms connect the light source and shade to the backplate and are often accented with subtle details that help underscore the design elements in your backplate and shades.Sconce backplates connect these light fixtures to the wall and can be subtle and unobtrusive or dramatic statement pieces.For example, a sconce with a clear glass shade will cast light out into the room (which is why this style is good for bathrooms), but a sconce with an opaque metal shade might only throw light directly down (making them useful for desks or positioned above artwork). Sconce shades are available in fabric, metal, and glass configurations and will affect how much light the sconce emits.


This spectrum of styles helps interior designers and home decor lovers alike keep on the cutting edge of lighting design, while still celebrating a centuries-old light fixture that never looks outdated. These fixtures never go out of style, and have been in use for centuries! Before the advent of electricity, wall torches and wall candle holders were essential for keeping rooms well lit in fact, antique-inspired sconces and traditional wall sconces that evoke the style of pre-electric wall sconce designs are still popular choices for contemporary homes! If the vintage look doesn’t speak to you, simple minimalist sconces and modern and contemporary sconces come in a wide range of appealing finishes and styles.

Sconces are a timeless style of lighting fixture that can complement existing lights and design elements in every room of your home. In areas where ceiling lights and hanging lights alone leave something to be desired, stylish wall lights can provide a much-needed boost of both luminance and panache. Successfully layering light throughout a home requires a thoughtful combination of several different categories of lighting fixtures.

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How to Size & Hang a Chandelier: Tips & FAQs.
