Wall Sconces - Where to Use Wall Lights

Airis Sconce by Hubbardton Forge

Wall sconces are a great way to add light and ambiance to a room. There are so many areas wall sconces can be used in a home, from the foyer, to hallways, living rooms, media rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms,  and powder rooms. Adding light in strategic areas can make a room appear larger, or direct a flow of traffic throughout your home or office.

Hanna Wall Sconce and Chandeliers by Kichler

Generally, wall sconces should be hung 72 inches off of the floor. If the ceiling is very high, sconces can be hung higher for a dramatic effect, or at the tops of pillars or beams to highlight architecture. If there are people taller than six feet in the house, the sconce should be hung high enough so the tallest person cannot see into it. In a Living Room or Great Room consider areas you would like to draw visual interest. For instance a fireplace mantle. Special consideration should be taken for narrow hallways or commercial areas. In instances like those, one should consider an ADA wall sconce. ADA certification is regulated by the Americans with Disabilities Act. ADA dictates that if a light fixture is mounted on the wall above 27 inches and below 80 inches from the floor, it must not protrude more than 4 inches from the wall the light fixture is mounted on. ADA enforces this code in public establishments.

Spyro Pendant and Wall Sconce by Kichler

Wall sconces can serve as a functional element in a bedroom, but can also add a romantic ambiance. Sconces can be added on either side of a headboard, flanking the entry to the master bath, on either side of a window that overlooks some outdoor scenery, or to an area where one might put a dressing table. When placing sconces on either side of a head board, a swing arm light is a type of sconce that is typically used in bedrooms or offices. Swing arm wall lights add a decorative element to the "boring" reading light, and allow one person to read without disturbing the other. To avoid glare, install them so the shades are about 22 inches off of the mattress.

Bowed Swing Arm Sconce by Hubbardton Forge. Left and Right versions available.

Bathrooms are a popular area for sconces, and can make a Master Bath appear more formal than other bathrooms in the house. For shaving and putting on make-up, the best light should be even and shadow-free. To achieve this, light should come from above and both sides. Wall sconces should be at least 28 inches apart and centered 60 inches off of the floor. Of course, taller or shorter people can adjust this guideline.  Aside from adequate light at the vanities, don’t overlook lighting the tub area and any architectural features. Sconces used in conjunction with a recessed light over each sink will give adequate light in a vanity area. If a recessed light is not an option, but you would still like to use sconces, make sure the sconce is rated for at least 100 watts or equivalent. Also, put lights that are compatible with a dimmer on a dimmer switch for a spa-like affect when soaking in the tub. Your Half Bath, or Powder Room is a room your guests will frequently use. Higher quality sconces, when applicable, should be considered for this area. The Powder Room offers an opportunity to get creative with your lighting. Since this area is not generally used for grooming, the lighting can be very dramatic. Remember that dark colors absorb light, so plan for more than you think you need and use a dimmer.

Roxbury French Iron Sconce by Troy Lighting

 

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