In Soviet times, the ceiling chandelier was the main and almost the only device that was used to illuminate the room. Today, a sconce came to the aid of this traditional source of light. Designers love them very much, and for good reason. After all, wall lamps are not only an additional source of artificial glow, but also an important element of decor that performs a number of specific functions.
What is sconce
A sconce is a lamp that, with the help of special brackets, is attached directly to the wall. The glow from him is soft, diffused. But when using certain models of lampshades, the light can be made directional.
One of the advantages of such a lighting device is the convenience of its installation. But the main advantage of the sconce is that this source of illumination performs a number of design functions.
Functions of Wall Lights
A sconce is a light source that performs several functions:
- Create local lighting. To solve this problem, a wall lamp is placed next to a picture or mirror. You can also place the sconce over the bed. This will make the reading process more comfortable, for example. In this case, the light will not interfere with others. It is relevant to use sconces in small corridors with low ceilings, when the use of a ceiling chandelier can clutter an already cramped space. It is also advisable to place wall lights along the stairs.
- Create special lighting. Correctly combining the light of chandeliers and sconces, you can create a certain mood in the room. In order to give the interior a festive and solemn appearance, both ceiling and wall lighting fixtures should be lit at the same time. If we limit ourselves to the included sconces, an intimate atmosphere reigning in the room will be conducive to calm communication. Mandatory is the use of chandeliers and wall lights, made in the same style.
- Zoning space. The correct placement of several sconces makes it possible to visually delimit the room, dividing it into functional sections. If you hang a sconce near a sofa or bed, this will indicate the rest area. You can also attach a wall lamp next to a decor item, thereby highlighting a vase, figurine, canvas or rare collection.
- Interior decoration. Modern sconces can be made in various styles, ranging from antique to high-tech. That is why such wall lights successfully cope with the role of decorative decoration and become an integral part of the interior.
Types of sconces
Sconces can be classified according to two signs:
- in form;
- directionality of lighting.
Depending on the shape, wall lamps are divided into the following types:
- Closed. Such light sources are made in the form of a matte or transparent shade of geometric shape. Lamps are made of glass, metal or plastic.
- "Halves." The shape of such sconces is also geometric, but their upper part is cut off.
- Decorative. There are wall lights in the form of flashlights, flowers, candlesticks, birds and many other designs. They can be decorated with fabric, wood, crystal, stones. With the help of such lighting elements, you can design a room in a certain style, giving it personality.
Depending on the orientation of the lighting, wall lamps are of the following types:
- Direct glow. The design of these lighting elements allows you to direct lighting to a specific object.
- Mostly direct light. In this case, most of the lighting is directed to a certain point, the rest is scattered.
- Uniform glow. It is convenient to read with such light sources, however, these wall lamps do not have a special effect on the atmosphere of the room.
- Broken glow. In this case, the light from the sconce is directed to the upper part of the walls and ceiling and is reflected from the surfaces. Such lighting creates a romantic atmosphere in the room due to its softness.
How to choose a wall lamp
When choosing a sconce, you should use the following recommendations. Wall lights should be made in the same style as the chandelier. If this condition is not met, the interior will cease to be harmonious, the room will look scruffy.
When choosing a sconce for lighting mirrors, you need to dwell on paired wall lights. Indeed, in this case, the lighting should come from two sides.
To emphasize the beauty of the picture, it is recommended to purchase wall-mounted light sources made of frosted glass.
If the room has low ceilings, then the glow from the sconce should be directed upward, to the ceiling. Conversely, with high ceilings, light must be directed downward.
Narrow corridors should be equipped with a small sconce. They visually expand the room.
After the lamp is selected, you need to attach it to the wall. How to connect a sconce? This can easily be done on your own by first reading the instructions that came with the device.
How to use wall lights in different rooms
You can install sconces in any room, starting with the nursery and ending with the corridor. Below will be described the features of placing sconces in rooms such as a bedroom, living room and bathroom.
In the bedroom, wall lights are traditionally installed above the dressing table or at the head of the bed. In this room, the task of the sconce is to create soft, dim lighting that will help to relax.
In the living room, wall lights are best placed next to the sofa, near the bar or fireplace. In this room, sconces will complement the main lighting and act as decoration.
In the bathroom, the most important is the lighting of the mirror. It is next to this element that paired sconces are placed. However, often in small rooms of this type, wall lights successfully replace ceiling lighting elements.
Now you know in what places of the main rooms it is better to install a sconce. The photos given in the article will help to place the wall lamps correctly.
Conclusion
A sconce is not only a device for creating additional artificial lighting, but also an important element of decor that performs a number of specific functions. Wall lights can be classified by their shape and by the direction of their emitted glow. The article gives recommendations on the selection and proper placement of such lighting elements in your home.