Of the wide variety of lighting equipment, wall lamps are becoming very popular, firmly established near beds, tables, mirrors and other home furnishings. They allow you to create interesting effects and design solutions, replace the main lighting and act as decorative lighting. Due to the wide variety available, many people wonder how to choose a sconce, so in this article we will look at the main criteria that you should pay attention to when choosing.
What is a sconce
Sconces are a special type of lamps that are mounted on the wall and have an individual switch. The switch can be built into the wall or located on a separate wire that goes to the outlet. Often sconces are also included in pairs.
Important! Sconces and simple wall lamps have differences and are different types of lighting. Sconces are distinguished by their autonomy from all lighting and by their design, which separates the socket from the wall using a horn or lampshade.
An ordinary wall lamp is simply attached with the entire lampshade to the wall, and the light has no specific direction and spreads in all directions.
Sconces have their advantages compared to conventional wall lamps, chandeliers or floor lamps:
- Autonomous switching on and off.
- Suitable for small rooms when there is no point in hanging a large chandelier.
- Ideal for rooms where it is impossible to place central lighting: narrow corridors and rooms, stairs, attics.
- Zoning a room, highlighting one wall or corner
- Due to the horn, it has a more decorative and romantic appearance compared to conventional wall lamps.
- The sconce does not take up space and is therefore suitable for any room with any decor.
- In an ensemble with a chandelier, sconces create a more solemn atmosphere.
- They help highlight individual elements and illuminate them, for example, mirrors or paintings.
- They help to illuminate people near the walls well: sconces are great for illuminating mirrors, since the light is directed not only onto the mirror, but also onto the face.
Thanks to such features, these lamps become indispensable both in large halls and in ordinary rooms. It is no coincidence that sconces are still used in many public places: theater foyers, exhibition halls, libraries and beauty salons.
How to choose wall lights for your home
Before buying a sconce, you need to decide on two important points:
- for what purpose is a wall lamp needed in the room,
- how much light should this device provide and what quality of light should it be.
Wall lights can perform one or more of the following functions in a room.
- Local lighting is the main purpose of sconce lamps. If a device is selected to increase the illumination of a certain area, you need to pay attention to both light quality indicators and the aesthetic characteristics of the models.
- Main lighting is infrequent, but sometimes there are interiors in which sconces replace a ceiling lamp. In this case, the main characteristics are the brightness and intensity of the light flux - it should be sufficient so that the room does not have a feeling of darkness and gloominess.
- Atmospheric lighting - sconces are great for creating a certain mood in a room: romantic, cozy, cheerful, working. To achieve the desired effect with lamps, you should pay attention to the direction of the lampshades and the power of the device.
- Zoning lighting – wall lamps help to divide the room into zones for work and relaxation. In work areas, it is better to use light sources from the cold part of the spectrum; for recreation areas, warm or neutral lighting is more suitable.
- Accent lighting – with the help of sconces you can highlight and highlight interesting details, objects and interior elements. In this case, the appearance of the lamps themselves fades into the background; the characteristics of the emitted light become more important.
- Decorative lighting - here, on the contrary, the lamps themselves are important elements of the interior; they are chosen primarily by their appearance, and only then by the quality of the light.
Properly selected wall lamps not only cope well with the tasks assigned to them, but also help hide minor imperfections in the interior: uneven walls, faded shade of the ceiling.
Sconce designs
There are several types of sconces based on the types and designs:
- By type of cartridge installation. There are models with a horn, where the cartridge with a lampshade is mounted on a special remote horn. There are hornless options, when the lampshade in the form of a crescent or other figure is attached to the wall. In this case, it is distinguished from a conventional lamp by the narrow direction of light.
- According to the direction of the light, which can be directed up, up and down at the same time or change its direction using a flexible horn.
- According to the shape of the lamp. Most often, lampshades are made in the shape of a crescent, candles or lanterns. There are also shapes in the form of a flower, a ball, a square, or figures of animals and mushrooms.
- According to the design of the switch, which can be wired, touch, built into the wall, with a cord or push-button. Typically, the switch is located on the body of the sconce or on the wire leading to the outlet. In advanced models, the switch is equipped with a dimmer that allows you to smoothly reduce the light intensity.
All these design nuances are important to consider when choosing sconces.
Features of placement of lamps
There are different types of sconces, you should choose them depending on the type of room and style. There are some recommendations for the placement of lamps in the house:
- Living room. By turning on only sconces, you can transform the living room, giving it a mysterious look due to dim lighting. On the contrary, if you place lamps in the corners of the walls, you can perfectly illuminate the entire room. Small sconces are fixed next to decorative elements, fireplaces, niches, mirrors, focusing attention on them. If necessary, use wall lamps to highlight a part of the living room or a resting place; it will look especially beautiful when combining the room with the kitchen. Overhead volumetric sconces of the same shape but different colors look good in the living room.
- Kitchen. Here, side lamps are used to zone the room, highlight the decor, and provide additional light on the table for cooking. Sconces in the same color scheme with LED fixtures built into the furniture look good. The dining area of the kitchen is usually illuminated only by the central chandelier, but if it is located far from the middle of the room, you can also use sconces. In a small kitchen with low ceilings, wall-mounted appliances can even play the role of the main light source. It is better to buy products with closed shades or lanterns - they are easier to clean.
- Children's room. An ideal option for a child’s room is original diode lamps that harmonize with the interior, do not irritate the child’s eyes, and cannot burn their hands. They are located in the play area, next to the table for preparing lessons.
- Bathroom. Brighter lighting in the bathroom will add coziness and visually increase the space. You can also use sconces to illuminate a mirror, highlight the design of the wall, or furniture.
- Bedroom. It is in this room that sconces are used most often; their soft light promotes rest and relaxation. Mount the lamps directly above the bed (at the head of the bed) - this will eliminate blinding light, and turning the device on and off will become convenient. You can also place the sconce near the dressing table to perform cosmetic procedures with maximum comfort. If you place the sconces with the lamps facing up, the stucco molding on the ceiling will be beautifully illuminated.
- Corridor. In the hallway, stylish lamps on the walls are often sufficient without installing main lighting. If you place them slightly above head level, the room visually increases. You can also highlight the mirror with lamps, for example, by placing two devices on both sides symmetrically.
To obtain brighter light, the lamps are directed downwards. To visually expand the room, hang several sconces in one line, and to create a subdued atmosphere, mount them lower.
Sources
- https://vyborok.com/rejting-luchshih-nastennyh-svetilnikov/
- https://www.asutpp.ru/kak-vybrat-bra.html
- https://elihome.ru/otdelka/kakie-byvayut-lyustry.html
- https://int-era.ru/dekorirovanie/nastennyj-svetilnik-iz-odnoj-ili-neskolkih-lamp.html
- https://www.MSveta.ru/advices/vidy-bra-kak-vybrat-i-gde-povesit.html
- https://PermEhnergosbyt-lichnyj-kabinet.ru/elektrika-doma/vidy-svetilnikov-na-stenu.html
- https://sdelalremont.ru/kak-vybrat-nastennye-svetilniki-pravilno.html
- https://220.guru/osveshhenie/svetilniki/bra-na-stenu.html
How to choose a sconce for the living room
In order for the lamps to fit harmoniously into the interior and also bring benefits to the owners, it is necessary to take into account some features when choosing them. The lamp must first of all match the style of the interior. A good option would be a set of chandeliers and sconces.
When choosing a sconce, technical aspects are also important.
- First of all, this is the size of the hall; the number of sconces and the power of the lamps will depend on it.
- If you need to illuminate the entire room, it is better to purchase several sconces at once.
One or two lamps are suitable for highlighting a specific area, for example, a mirror, fireplace or corner with a coffee table. It is better not to place sconces with windows.
At what height should I hang sconces?
The location for the sconce is chosen based on many factors - the purpose of the room, the size of the furniture, the height and characteristics of the wall lamp. Most often the following rules are followed:
- In the bedroom - at a height of 1200-1600 mm. When an electrical appliance is located above the bed, it is usually installed above the backrest by approximately 200-300 mm.
- In the nursery - at a safe height. One in which the child will not be able to reach or touch it during games. Ideally, the lamp is located 150-200 mm above the baby, standing on his toes with outstretched arms.
- In the living room - at a comfortable height. It is not difficult to determine - just raise your hand up while in a chair or on the sofa. The optimal place in this case will be at palm level or slightly higher if the need to get up from the seat is not a problem.
- In the hallway - at head level. As a rule, the height is 1800-1900 mm from the floor. In the hallway it is also important that the lamp provides optimal illumination without interfering with the movement of people.
- In the bathroom - at eye level. Typically, wall lights are installed above and/or to the sides of the mirror. In any of these cases, the features of the interior, the area of the bathroom and the number of lamps are taken into account.
- In the kitchen - at a height of 700-800 mm relative to the countertop. Most often, this value is optimal, but for some rooms smaller/larger values may be more advantageous.
Sconces and interior styles
Sconces, like any lamps, are bright accents in a room. Since sconces are located on the walls, and not on the ceiling, the views of the owners and guests will inevitably be directed at these devices.
Therefore, it is extremely important that they are selected exactly in the overall style of the interior.
- Classic versions of lamps usually have horns and shades in the form of candles. Such models harmonize well with stucco on the walls, columns and classic furniture. Lampshades with crystal pendants or porcelain ornate elements would be appropriate here.
- For Arabic or Indian oriental styles, it is best to choose models with a forged body and a lampshade that imitates fire. Another option for oriental lamps is lampshades with carved decorations or mosaics made of colored glass.
- For modern or high-tech styles, it is better to choose a sconce with a metal body and a minimalist shade. Simple geometric shapes of the lampshade and a hornless design would be appropriate here.
- And for the Scandinavian style, wooden lamps with or without horns are suitable. The lampshade here should be unusual and designer.
- For Japanese minimalism, it is better to choose a lamp with a wooden body and a minimalist shade.
Advice. In a neutral interior, wall lamps can easily define a certain style.
Review of the best models
In order to choose the right product, you need to familiarize yourself with the rating of the best models according to users for 2022.
Near-surface
Surface luminaires:
Kink Light 08582
This lamp can be used for both wall and ceiling installation. It is used most often when it is necessary to highlight a certain area in the room, for example, in the area of the bed or desk. Externally, the product looks like a small square with LED lights. Despite its small size, the lamp illuminates up to 6 m2. The plastic lampshade is easy to clean and will last a long time.
Advantages:
- Bulbs are included;
- the design is suitable for any room;
- easy care.
Flaws:
- not found.
Cost - 400 rubles
Sonex 63 QUADRO ambra sconce
This lamp is inexpensive and has an attractive appearance. The model will be an ideal complement to the Art Nouveau style. Can be used for the bedroom or hallway. Metal fittings are used as fasteners, and the lamp is complemented by a glass shade decorated with yellow inserts. It should be noted that the product can illuminate up to 5 m2, so it is often used for large rooms.
Advantages:
- compact dimensions;
- stylish appearance;
- easy installation.
Flaws:
- no protection against dust.
Cost - 350 rubles.
ST Luce Nube SL950.501.01, 11 W
The model will be an ideal option for a children's room. It looks like a cloud with built-in LED lamps. The product shines brightly. Therefore it can be used as bedside lighting. It should also be noted that the model has a high degree of protection from dust and moisture, so it can be used even in places with high humidity.
Advantages:
- does not allow dust to pass through;
- shines brightly;
- easy care.
Flaws:
- high cost.
Price - 9000 rubles.
Eurosvet 40132/1 white, 12 W
The design can be used as additional lighting. If several such products are installed in a room, basic lighting is not required. The product is made of metal and therefore will last a long period without reducing its characteristics. The model has a width of 28 cm. The light source is LEDs. There are 12 of them in total in the product.
One product can illuminate an area of up to 4 m². After purchase, the manufacturer provides a one-year warranty.
Advantages:
- shines brightly;
- high degree of dust protection;
- easy care.
Flaws:
- not found.
Cost - 5000 rubles.
Lightstar Nubi 802610, 40 W
The product attracts with its unusual design. Thanks to the frosted glass, the light is soft and evenly distributed throughout the room. It should also be noted that the shades are easily removable, which facilitates regular maintenance. Can be used in the bedroom or living room.
Incandescent lamps or LEDs can be used for lighting. In order to evenly illuminate a large room, it is recommended to use at least 3-4 products
Advantages:
- convenient care;
- soft light;
- stylish appearance;
- matte base, so fingerprints and other dirt are not visible.
Flaws:
- illuminates an area of 2.2 m².
Cost - 5300 rubles.
MAYTONI Rustika H899-01-R, 60 W
A small lamp can be used near the bed. One device can illuminate 3.3 m². Therefore, for a large room it is necessary to use several sconces. The product is made of metal plates. A 60-watt incandescent lamp is used for lighting.
This design will be an ideal addition to a room with light walls; the product can also be installed in the hallway as additional lighting.
Advantages:
- long period of use;
- unusual appearance;
- easy installation.
Flaws:
- metal parts require regular cleaning.
Cost - 5000 rubles.
Built-in
Recessed lights:
Sonex Greca 161/K, D: 30 cm, E27
The product is manufactured by a Russian company and is in great demand among users. The product can be used for both ceilings and walls. Most often, such lamps are installed in the kitchen or hallway. Thanks to its high power, the product can illuminate 6.7 m2. Made of metal fittings and decorated with a glass shade. There are 2 incandescent lamps installed inside the lampshade.
Advantages:
- bright light;
- simple installation;
- classic design.
Flaws:
- not found.
Cost - 1200 rubles.
Arte Lamp Busta A1609AP-1GY, 7 W
The built-in LED light illuminates an area of 2.86 m². This model will be an ideal complement to the high-tech style. The upper part of the lampshade is made in gray color, so the material is suitable for any type of wall. Most often, this type is chosen for the bathroom, as it has high protection against moisture.
Advantages:
- The lampshade is made of metal;
- the light is soft, but not bright;
- The product is easy to clean.
Flaws:
- not found.
Cost - 3000 rubles.
ERA WL6 WH, 3 W
The built-in lamp will complement any interior. A small matte white shade protrudes above the wall level. Lighting can be of varying intensity, depending on personal preference. The lamps use energy sparingly thanks to the use of LEDs. The sconce can be chosen for both the bedroom and the hallway.
Advantages:
- stylish appearance;
- high-quality lighting;
- several levels of light.
Flaws:
- not found.
Cost - 1000 rubles.
Lightstar Tensio 212114
A small lamp is built into the wall and does not take up much space. Can be used in almost any room, as it does not belong to a specific style. It is also often built into furniture or niches in walls. This allows you to get soft additional light. The user can choose fluorescent or LED lamps, depending on personal preferences.
Advantages:
- simple design;
- quick installation;
- universal use.
Flaws:
- To illuminate a room, it is necessary to install several such structures.
Cost: 280 rubles.
Mantra Bora Bora C0111, 6 W
The built-in structure looks like a circle, part of which cuts into the wall. A small matte lampshade without additional decorations, has universal use. A 6 Watt LED is used as a light source. You can purchase this model in specialized stores or order online. Delivery is carried out by courier service.
Advantages:
- bright light;
- simple installation;
- low maintenance.
Flaws:
- not found.
Cost - 6500 rubles.
Volumetric
Volumetric lamps:
Bohemia Ivele Crystal 16115B/2+1/165/XL G-54667
This model will decorate any room. Pairs perfectly with classic style. The sconce is made of metal and decorated with crystal pendants. Thanks to which the light beam is further scattered throughout the room. The sconces use incandescent lamps.
Types of light direction
Depending on what function the sconces perform, the lampshade is selected. It is the lampshade that directs the light in one direction or another. Options for directing light into sconces:
- Diffuse, slightly upward light. As a rule, these lampshades are shaped like a ball or a candle and are located on a horn. This option is suitable for illuminating the entire room.
- The light is directed upward. This option is suitable to make the atmosphere of the room more solemn. A good way to illuminate the entire living room.
- The light is directed both up and down. A good option for highlighting separate areas in the living room. For example, this can be used to designate a corner with a sofa and armchairs.
- The light is directed strictly in a given direction, and the lampshade is mounted on a flexible horn. This option is suitable when using sconces for specific purposes: for reading, for eating in the dining area, for illuminating objects: paintings, mirrors or posters.
Thus, sconces easily help not only to decorate the interior, but also to make it more functional.
Ergonomically place sconces above the bed
A task often reserved for sconces in the bedroom is to illuminate the bed area just before going to bed. That is, you should be able to sit comfortably to read or watch TV while in bed. At any moment, a person simply reaches out and turns off the light to fall asleep. No unnecessary movements, tension, especially getting up to turn off the light. Otherwise, the activity will disrupt the mood for sleep, and you may still toss and turn for a while in an attempt to fall asleep again.
- The sconce is placed so that the switch is at arm's length.
- These lamps have low power. To illuminate the other half of the double bed, you will need a second fixture.
- Sconces are placed in pairs, above the head of the bed. This option not only looks beautiful, but also protects the sleeping person’s eyes from bright light.
- The optimal parameters for mounting sconces are 130-160 cm from the floor, 20-30 cm to the side from the head of the bed.
An excessively high placement of the lamp will cause poor lighting; when reading, you will have to strain your eyes, which is undesirable for preserving your vision. But a sconce that is fixed too low will dazzle even despite its low power.
Photo of a wall sconce in the hall
Bedroom lighting
The traditional place to install sconces in the bedroom is the head of the bed. They are installed in pairs and arranged symmetrically. Models that have the function of controlling the brightness of the light flux and the ability to regulate (direct) it are ideal here. Sconces with a manual switch are placed in close proximity to the bed, with a remote control - based on the needs of each person.
In the bedroom, wall lighting fixtures are also installed near the mirror (dressing table), almost always in pairs.
Sconce for the bedroom
Lighting in the kitchen
Of course, it is best to use separate lighting for the kitchen work area. After all, cutting meat or cutting vegetables in semi-darkness is not only inconvenient, but also unsafe. One of the options for solving this problem has long been spotlights built into hanging kitchen cabinets. But if this is not possible, wall sconces will come in handy! It is enough to place a couple of such lamps at the edges of the work area, and you can cook without any problems even late in the evening. And a sconce above the dining table will also be useful and will create a soft romantic atmosphere.
A unique classic
The most versatile option for bedroom lamps is a classic-style sconce. This style is always relevant and is distinguished by its special elegance and nobility. For example, sconces made in the form of antique candlesticks will look chic in a bedroom with a similar style.
Classic sconces can be white, black, gold, silver and other universal colors. Classic is usually simplicity, but at the same time sophistication.
Sconces with elegant decorative details, with patterns or decorated with forged elements, such as birds or flowers, look very luxurious.
"Wholesale" - cheaper
Usually a paired set of sconces is purchased - this way unity of style is achieved. It’s especially beautiful when the chandelier and floor lamps are from the same series. They are united by a common theme, and the interior of the room looks thought out to the smallest detail. Manufacturers are happy to offer customers full lines, including all types of lamps. This way, you are guaranteed to purchase the entire set in one place, which usually includes: floor lamps, a pair of sconces, a table lamp and a chandelier. This trend is perfectly illustrated by the wonderful Strotskis kit from the Chinese company Eurosvet. And this is not even the entire line - the chandelier can be equipped with a large number of “horns”.
Strotskis eurosvet
And everyone is happy - you will be given a discount for purchasing a large volume at once, and the manufacturer will increase product sales. As another example, here is a nice Nueli set from the Italian manufacturer Odeon Light. It includes a chandelier, wall lamps and table lamps.
Odeon light
No less impressive is the Medici kit, from the well-known company from Austria – Eglo. It looks perfect in a room with lots of wood. As we see here, there is a sconce with a switch - a cord, which means it is easy to reach even while lying in bed.
Eglo - Medici
And there are a majority of such manufacturers; it is impossible to list them all.
