Wall Sconces Light up a Space
The type of light attached to a wall so that only the wall supports the fixture is called sconce. Early sconces consisted of oil-soaked rags that were wound around a wooden torch. As mankind’s technology developed so did the light sconce. Candles (a predecessor of candle wall sconces?)replaced the dangerous oil-soak rags, adding a decorative flair to the functional light source. Technological advancements led to the replacement of candle sconces with gas fixtures in many urban areas. Following the construction of the electrical grid, electric indoor wall sconces became a preferred source of lighting. Modern trends in wall sconces include use in home theaters and bedroom spaces (see bedroom sconces). There are also high-end trendy options, such as: glass wall sconces , and modern sconces .

The growth of home theaters has been exponential decorative lights over the past ten years and so has the need for appropriate lighting for movie viewing. The installation of lighting sconces throughout the movie viewing area provides a desirable soft ambient light. The soft lighting has two main benefits. The first is that viewers are able to navigate the room safely. The second benefit of wall sconces in a home theater is that viewers suffer less eye strain from prolonged screen watching. In addition to safety, the sconces can assist in developing a true movie theater experience. Movie theaters are almost synonymous with art deco architecture. In order to recreate the theater feel, wall sconces with clean lines and geometric shapes should be selected for the space. A great theater decorating tip is to use decorative wall sconces as an accent to highlight vintage movie theater posters. Some light sconces have bulbs that face upward while other models have downward pointing bulbs. For optimum movie viewing, upward pointing sconces should be installed. Downward lighting can create glare on the screen as well as be too harsh for human eyes. The upward pointing fixture is ideally positioned about 3/4 up the wall. If a downward aimed fixture is installed, placement should be closer to the ceiling so as to disperse the light. Consider using lower wattage bulbs with downward facing sconces to provide a less harsh lighting effect. For a unique modern twist on the traditional movie theater sconce, consider a blue or green bulb in lieu of the classic white. Blue and green lighting are very soothing for the eyes.

Recent trends have the wall sconce as reading lights near the bed. Commonly used in mid-Century décor, the reading lights have made a come-back. Modern installations put the sconce either over or on both sides of the headboard in order to draw focus to the bed as well as provide functionality. The sconce is an excellent focused reading light. Homeowners should locate the sconce so the light is positioned for optimum reading. It is important that the reader’s body not block the light. When selecting a reading wall sconce, homeowners should consider purchasing a green fixture. The heat given off by a traditional light bulb may be uncomfortable for prolonged reading. Newer units using Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are excellent options as they give off less heat but still provide the same amount of light as traditional bulbs.

Some styles come ornately decorated with dangling crystal while others are rather understated which adds a great deal of flexibility no matter what the design is. Whether mounted directly to the wall or with an arm (or arms) attached to a back-plate, one light or multiple, polished chrome wall lights will provide the perfect amount of illumination for whatever purpose needed.