Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights & Sconces

Where Retro Wall Lights Work Best

Wall lighting is an ideal option for spaces where you need to complement existing light from a chandelier, pendant or flush mount light fixture. These retro wall lights make their presence known in modern kitchens and dining rooms by adding decorative character and rounding out the lighting scheme of the space, and they can be especially decorative and mood-enhancing when placed on a dimmer switch. In entryways and foyer areas, a mid-century sconce can provide inviting light and you'll love putting a pair of wall lamps on either side of the bed for task-specific lighting or general light. Finally, consider adding some 1950s flare to your hallway with any of these wall-mounted fixtures.

Mid-Century Wall Sconces For Every Style

We love the bold, organic shapes and clever details of wall lights that shake up our design sensibilities and awaken new possibilities in rooms that have grown weary. Included in this assortment of decorative wall lamps and sconces are pieces from some of the foremost luminaries in the world of mid-century modern and retro-inspired lighting. Stark and symmetrical brass pieces from Jonathan Adler ramp up the drama in any space, while the playful, opulent sconces from Arteriors spark the imagination. And the sleek twist on geometric modernism from George Kovacs elicits surprising turns on classic themes. Finally, for a mid-century modern space with a Scandinavian touch, check out the sconces from Arne Jacobsen for Louis Poulsen.

Choosing the Best Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights

With a certain aesthetic choice in mind, selecting a wall light inspired by retro design is easy. First, determine the size of the wall sconce you need by reviewing dimensions like height, width, weight and depth (for those lighting designs that protrude from the wall). Next, refine your options by color and finish to find something that best fits your space. You'll also want to check out the wall light's bulb requirement to be prepared with the right light bulb at installation. If you have any questions about the mid-century sconces featured here, please call our lighting experts at 877.445.4486.

Other Considerations

Wall lighting is a great way to add layers of light to your rooms. Their unique lighting pattern produces ambient lighting to softly illuminate walls, floors, and ceilings; task lighting to complete a reading nook, flank the bathroom vanity, or free up space on the bedside tables; and functional lighting for a long corridor, small alcove, or office space. Use them as accent lighting on either side of a focal piece - a dramatic painting, fireplace, or buffet. Multiple sconces wired to a single wall switch makes them a convenient way to bring more light into your home.