Add architectural elegance and ambient lighting with Modest Hut's Sconces collection. These wall-mounted fixtures combine functional illumination with sculptural design, creating layers of light that enhance any room's atmosphere. From sleek modern sconces and minimalist designs to vintage-inspired fixtures and ornate traditional styles, our collection features premium materials including metal, glass, fabric, and mixed media in stunning finishes like brushed brass, matte black, polished chrome, and antique bronze. Perfect for flanking mirrors and artwork, illuminating hallways, adding bedside lighting, or creating dramatic entryway ambiance, sconces provide space-saving illumination that frees up surface area while adding vertical visual interest. Coordinate with modern lighting and modern chandeliers for a cohesive, layered lighting scheme throughout your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I install wall sconces?
Sconces work beautifully flanking bathroom mirrors (60-65 inches from floor to center), beside beds as reading lights (30-36 inches above mattress), in hallways for ambient lighting (every 8-10 feet), flanking artwork or mirrors in living rooms, in entryways for welcoming illumination, or along stairways for safety and style. They're perfect anywhere you need lighting without using floor or table space.
How high should sconces be mounted?
Standard mounting height is 60-66 inches from the floor to the center of the fixture—roughly eye level. In bathrooms flanking mirrors, mount at 60-65 inches for optimal face lighting. Beside beds, mount 30-36 inches above the mattress for reading. In hallways, 66-72 inches works well. For flanking artwork or wall art, center sconces at the artwork's midpoint or slightly above.
What types of sconces are available?
Our collection includes hardwired sconces requiring electrical installation, plug-in sconces with visible cords for easy installation, swing-arm sconces adjustable for reading, uplight sconces that cast light upward for ambient glow, downlight sconces for task lighting, and candle-style sconces for traditional elegance. Styles range from modern minimalist to industrial, mid-century, traditional, and contemporary designs in various sizes and finishes.
Do sconces require professional installation?
Hardwired sconces require electrical knowledge and often professional installation, especially if adding new electrical boxes. Plug-in sconces are DIY-friendly—simply mount the bracket and plug in. If replacing existing sconces, ensure the electrical box is properly rated and secure. Always turn off power at the breaker before installation. For valuable fixtures or complex installations, professional electricians ensure safety and proper mounting.
What finishes work best for sconces?
Brushed brass or gold adds warmth and luxury to traditional or transitional spaces. Matte black offers bold, contemporary drama perfect for modern interiors. Polished chrome or nickel provides sleek, reflective sophistication. Antique bronze or aged brass brings vintage charm. Oil-rubbed bronze suits rustic or industrial aesthetics. Choose finishes that coordinate with your lighting fixtures, hardware, and mirrors for cohesive style.
How do I choose the right sconce size?
For bathroom mirrors, sconces should be roughly one-third the mirror's height. For flanking artwork, choose sconces proportional to the piece—not larger than the art itself. In hallways, 10-14 inch sconces work well for standard 8-foot ceilings. Beside beds, 8-12 inch sconces provide adequate reading light without overwhelming nightstands. Consider your wall space and ceiling height—larger rooms can handle more substantial fixtures.