How to choose the perfect sconces

Sconces are one of our favorite lighting features.  Hear me out: sconces have come a long way!  While traditional styles are still going strong, lighting designers continue to debut new styles that fit any aesthetic.  In addition to their variety, sconces are the most versatile lighting choice.  Whether indoors or out, they work in almost any space and marry function with flair.

Why choose sconces?

Besides their incredible versatility (sconces work on your porch just as well as in your powder room!), they offer some of the most flattering ambient light available and illuminate your space.  These wall-mounted fixtures pair a traditional function, bringing light to a room, with flair and personality.  The “Franz” sconce from Arteriors Home has a sculpted, natural wood look made of brass.

Best Philadelphia interior designer Glenna Stone Arteriors Franz sconce
Philadelphia interior design inspiration – Arteriors Franz sconce

How to incorporate sconces

Okay, you’ve found sconces that you love.  How can you make them work in your home?  These fixtures are a great way to add a touch of elegance and balance.  Use them as an accent to draw attention to features that you love in your home, such as a fabulous piece of art or a large antique mirror.  Sconces can add drama to built ins, or illuminate hallways without harsh overhead light.  You can also tie them directly into the room design itself.  In the Texas Monthly Gulf Coast Show Home, Circa Lighting used fabulous Selfoss by AERIN sconces on either side of the sink to tie into the overall design of the bathroom!

Best Philadelphia interior designer Glenna Stone Selfoss Sconce Circa Texas Monthly Gulf Coast show home
Selfoss Sconce – Texas Monthly Gulf Coast Show Home

Where to add sconces

Easy answer?  Anywhere that you need light or extra impact.  Sconces are perfect in a library, living room, or bedroom as a reading light in place of a table or floor lamp, especially if you’re working with a smaller space.  Bathrooms are ideal; check out our Villanova bathroom design to see how we used them to supplement natural light.  Outdoors, sconces can be used to illuminate the front of your house as well as gathering areas like porches and patios.  I love the water glass and how you don’t see a physical bulb with this Feiss outdoor sconce.

Best Philadelphia interior designer Glenna Stone LED sconce with water glass by Feiss
Urbandale LED sconce with water glass by Feiss

 

Header Image: Glenna Stone Interior Design; Photography by Rebecca McAlpin

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