Globe Electric 51367 Mid-Century Dimmable Wall Sconce

If you’ve watched enough home renovation shows, you know it’s often the subtle things that make all the difference when it comes to decor. There might be no better example of this than a well-chosen set of wall sconces.

If you’re placing new wall sconces into an established home, there’s not a lot riding on them from a practical standpoint. Sconces are stand-alone lamps built into a wall, and they come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. While they’re almost never used as the primary light source in any indoor area, they can definitely brighten up any living space in a more figurative way.

With that in mind, style is going to be your first concern when buying a pair of sconces. (And yes, they should almost always come in pairs — you may even want to get several pairs if you’re lighting up a long hallway or den.) Think first about the existing decor. If it’s more modern, go with sconces that are sleek and angular. Rustic bookshelves call for a more classic look with polished brass or wire cages around the bulbs.

Also think about what furniture or statement pieces you might want to highlight in your home. The bulbs in sconces will be made to face up or down, and some can be installed either way. If you’ve got wall art you want to draw the eye toward, pick sconces that direct light that way. If you have a rug you’re especially proud of, go with downward-facing bulbs.

These rules apply primarily for indoor fixtures. Many homes feature sconces outdoors by the front entrance. In contrast to indoor sconces, these might be vital in terms of illuminating your path into your home. For that reason, it’s almost always best to go with downward-facing bulbs to provide the utmost safety.

Now for the not-so-fun part: installation. Hardwired sconces get their power from a home’s internal grid, and for that reason you should always get a certified electrician to put them in. It’s usually not a lengthy job, but it’s one you don’t want to get wrong. Some sconces do work through internal batteries. Those can be easier to install, though you may need to buy a separate transformer pack.

Finally, think about the look you want the sconces to achieve when lit. Do you want bright fluorescent light or more muted (and longer-lasting) LED illumination? Most sconces work best with a certain kind of bulb, and the kind of light it emits can make all the difference. If you desire, make sure that the sconce can support a dimmer switch so that you can customize the look whenever you like.

Placement of your sconces is just as crucial as the style you choose. In general, indoor sconces should be placed so that the bulb is right around eye level, or roughly 65 inches off the ground. In cases where the sconces are providing functional light for those who are seated (such as in a reading room or a vanity mirror), they can be lowered another foot or so. If you have multiple sconces lighting the entirety of a hallway or foyer, place them no closer than 8 feet apart.