Scandinavian Modern Wall Sconces
Wall Sconces Explore
Scandinavian Wall Sconces
Scandinavian style has its start after World War II, when the Nordic countries of Sweden Finland, Norway and especially Denmark were at the height of social democracy. Clean lines and functionality are the mark of Scandinavian design while showcasing evocative shapes drawn from nature. Scandinavian wall sconces are the same, having clean lines and simple silhouettes. Scandinavian style wall sconces come from the same period as mid-century modern wall sconces, with the American equivalent sometimes sharing the same qualities. Sconces in any style are designed to give a touch of extra light. Most commonly sitting on the wall either by an outside door, in a foyer or down a hallway, sconces accent the room, ensuring a full and appealing glow reaches the entire space.
Other Considerations
Before purchasing the desired sconce, check the measurements and ensure it works well in the space, giving plenty of room to breathe while providing the necessary accent light. Either overwhelming the room with too much light and fixtures or underwhelming it by relying on the sconce to do most of the work will hurt the room’s appeal. If placing the sconce outside, check the location rating and make sure it has either wet or damp ratings, meaning it can be directly exposed to water or just nearby. Depending on where one lives, Dark Sky compliance may be in effect, so check if the unit meets the requirements for outdoor lighting.
If the sconce does work out well, consider adding more of the same design such as scandinavian pendant lighting. Pendant lights provide a more direct and full glow as they hang from the ceiling either as single units or in sets, particularly when they hang over kitchen counters, islands and dining room tables.
Finally, consider the similar style of geometric wall sconces. These sconces come in a variety of shapes but always have intricate linework that evokes a sense of math and geometry. The intricate patterns are different from the smooth shapes and forms of scandinavian style, but can also pair well if a single unit is in the room with the intention to draw the eye toward it.
Wall SconcesFrequently Asked Questions
What is a wall sconce?
A wall sconce is a light fixture that mounts directly to a wall, providing ambient, task, or accent illumination without occupying floor or table space.
Expert tip: Because sconces sit at eye level, they have an outsized impact on a room's aesthetic; treat them as decorative objects, not just light sources.
What is the ideal mounting height for wall sconces?
The standard mounting height is 60 to 66 inches from the floor to the center of the fixture.
Expert tip: For stairway sconces, maintain a consistent height relative to each stair tread rather than the floor below.
What is the difference between hardwired and plug-in wall sconces?
Hardwired sconces connect to your home's electrical wiring inside the wall, resulting in a clean look with no visible cord. Plug-in sconces use a cord that plugs into a standard outlet.
Expert tip: If you love a hardwired design but lack a junction box, an electrician can typically add one for a modest cost.
How do I choose the right size wall sconce?
Scale the fixture to the wall and the elements around it. For bedside sconces, the shade bottom should sit roughly at shoulder height when seated in bed.
Expert tip: When in doubt, err slightly smaller; an understated sconce reads as intentional.
Are LED wall sconces better than traditional bulb sconces?
LED sconces offer longer lifespan, lower energy consumption, and consistent color rendering.
Expert tip: Check the fixture's CRI (Color Rendering Index); a CRI of 90 or above ensures colors appear accurate and vibrant.
What wall sconces are best for small spaces?
Look for slim-profile sconces that project minimally from the wall. Flush designs, vertical orientations, and wall sconces with switches that eliminate the need for a separate wall switch all help conserve space.
Expert tip: A sconce with uplight distribution can make a low ceiling feel taller.
Do wall sconces need to match my other light fixtures?
Matching is not required; a mix of finishes and forms often creates a more layered, considered interior.
Expert tip: Repeating a single finish (such as brass) across different fixture types creates continuity without rigidity.
What are ADA-compliant wall sconces?
ADA-compliant wall sconces project no more than 4 inches from the wall when mounted between 27 and 80 inches above the floor.
Expert tip: ADA-compliant sconces tend to have sleek, low-profile silhouettes that work well in modern interiors, making compliance a design advantage rather than a constraint.
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