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Playbook

13 Expert-Approved Wall Lights to Get Things Glowing

Words by Laura Dahlgren
a bath room with a sink a mirror and a bath tub

Photography by Michael P. H. Clifford; Design by JDP Interiors

Wall lights inject a room with sophistication.

Eye-level fixtures set the mood for magical evenings at home—whether it’s a bedside reading light, a sconce illuminating a long hallway, or a task light in the kitchen. Some options are incredibly versatile too. Experts like Joyce Downing Pickens and Zoë Feldman love this hand-blown In Common With design for its delicate floral shape and traditional appeal. “It’s so ethereal,” says the latter. “It casts a low light upward and creates a beautiful glow. It's almost an artistic moment on your wall.”

In favor of ditching harsh overhead lighting for softer, more ambient sources? From elegant and understated to bold and beautiful, here are the 12 sconces our designers use to add a luminous touch to any interior.

a living room filled with furniture and a lamp

Photography by Lauren Wilcox; Styling by Sara Ronna and Annie Desantis; Design by W Design Collective

For a Wireless Solution

Lucca Wall Candleholder “I love Lucca because anyone can add it anywhere in their home to add warmth and charm since it's non-wired.” —Marianne Brown, W Design Collective

For an Antique-Inspired Feel

Belgrave Sconce

“I love Rose Tarlow so much. Her pieces feel a little bit more primitive so they access a level of sophistication and act as that outlier in a room, which I love.” —Cameron Ruppert

For an Enduring Staple

Twist Sconce

“I love Evolve Lighting Co. Their metal patinas are incredibly beautiful. When I put a fixture into a client’s home, I want to make sure it will age beautifully over time.” —Carley Summers

For a Playful Piece

Edmund Wall Sconce

“This fixture feels delicate, effortless, and well-crafted. It would be charming in a kitchen or breakfast nook.” —Shannon Wollack, Studio LIFE/STYLE

a living room filled with furniture and a potted plant

Photography by Taylor Hall O'Brien; Styling by Liz Gardner; Design by Anne McDonald Design

For a Timeless Heirloom

1960s Italian Brass Wall Light

“This light can mix with almost any era or architectural style and look interesting, curated, and special. I would recommend a small, round, frosted bulb.” —Anne McDonald

For a Sculptural Sconce

Rolled Perforated Sconce

“I've always loved perforated metal. The light it casts is beautiful and gentle: it pushes through the holes and gives the room a warm, glowy look. This sconce would be great in a hallway where you want to be able to see but you don't want to distract too much.” —Jenna Lyons

For a Pretty Picture

Classic Wall Sconce

“This sconce is so adorable and the cut pleat detail on the shade is really pretty. I would use it pretty much anywhere: as a bedside light, in a living room reading nook, or a bathroom.” —Heidi Caillier

For a Minimal Moment

Lodge Linear Sconce

“I love Workstead lighting because it always makes a statement but it's simple at the same time. That’s not easy to do well. I picture these sconces hung down a hallway or flanking a mirror.” —Brigette Romanek

a bathroom sink with a vase of flowers on it

Photography by Shade Degges; Styling by Lisa Rowe; Design by Studio LIFE/STYLE

For a Sleek Style

Tassel 1 Sconce

"Apparatus exemplifies an unparalleled dedication to craftsmanship and detail. Their lighting fixtures have become a preferred choice for many of our clients. This sconce stands out as a perfect choice for bathrooms or down a hallway.” —Brittany Zwickl, Studio LIFE/STYLE

For a Vintage Vibe

Pair of Louis Poulsen Wall Lights

“I always splurge on vintage wall lights—the pay off is huge because it lives safely on the wall and out of reach, your investment is relatively protected.” —Hadley Wiggins

For an Artful Light

Talisman 1 Sconce

“I love finding a sconce that feels more like a sculpture because you get illumination and a great silhouette. The mix of materials is really nice and the shape can blend into a super contemporary house or more traditional home.” —Jake Arnold

For an Understated Fixture

House Sconce

“This is a simple, understated fixture that packs a punch. In a room with a lot going on, it can hold up to the other elements without competing.” —Anne McDonald

Shop Sconces and Wall Lights

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