Wall Lamps & Lighting 

Few of us would honestly consider wall lighting to be any kind of priority, right?  It can be stressful enough worrying about the ceiling fixtures and making sure there is enough task and ambient illumination in the space.  Who has time to worry about whether or not the wall has enough lighting or not?  

Wall lighting, however, really is the key to any truly balanced lighting plan.  A ceiling fixture will provide ambient illumination while table lamps often serve as sources of task lighting for things like reading or homework.  The best lighting schemes, however, are those include all three sources of indoor lighting:  ambient, task, and accent illumination.  Wall lights are great because some fixtures can actually provide all three types of lighting while greatly improving the overall balance and decorative appeal of any space. 

Wall sconces may be the first fixtures that come to mind when thinking of sources of illumination for the wall.  Indeed, wall sconces are very common fixtures but they can be extraordinarily beautiful and ornate.  Some fixtures feature multiple shades which provide even more illumination while creating an impressive aesthetic effect.  

Traditional wall sconces will feature shades that are detached from the wall.  Tiffany wall sconces are excellent examples of these more traditional wall sconces but they are available in a wide assortment of styles.  More contemporary wall sconces might feature flush-mount fixtures but this variety is more common with exterior fixtures. 

Wall sconces are perfect complements to a chandelier in the dining room or perhaps even as replacements to your table lamps in the bedroom.  When other fixtures are on, the wall sconce serves as an additional source of ambient illumination.  If used for reading, it becomes a task illumination fixture.  When other sources of illumination or off, the wall sconce can be left on to create a stunning decorative effect while also making the entire area safer.  Darkened hallways, bathroom walls, and even the foyer are also great place to use wall sconces to add balance and beauty to your lighting scheme and surrounding décor. 

Wall lamps tend to provide more illumination than wall sconces and many are adjustable and can be moved into position for reading or the completion of other tasks.  While wall sconces in the bedroom would perhaps be more decorative and create a romantic ambiance, adjustable lamps are probably better suited for this space.  Wall lamps are also great to use in the living room where they can serve as accent lamps when not being used for reading and other tasks.  Breakfast or reading nooks are other places where the functionality and beauty of the wall lamp work well with the decorative and functional aspects of the space. 

Do not underestimate the importance of wall lighting in your home because it can truly make the difference between having a complete and complementary lighting design that enriches and adds beauty to a space—or having gaps, dark spots, and an overall gloomy look and feel.  Wall sconces and lamps are vital elements that will send your décor and spirits to an entirely new and exciting level.