- When sconces serve as reading lamps in the bedroom, designer Candice Olson finds the correct height by having her client sit in bed. Olson then positions the lights so that the bottom of the shade comes just below the client’s eye level. For the average adult, this guideline means placing the fixtures about 48 inches above the floor. Mount one sconce four inches to the left of the headboard and another sconce four inches to the right of the headboard. To avoid keeping your partner awake while you’re knitting or reading, use sconces with individual, built-in switches.
- Sconces have more versatility in bedrooms than just flanking headboards; the fixtures can also function as general lighting on the other three walls. When using sconces as accents, install them 68 inches above the floor. Putting wall lamps at this eye-level elevation helps obscure the bulbs from view. If you want to make short walls appear taller, you can place sconces as low as 60 inches from the finished floor.
- To avoid having wires that distract the eye, hard-wired sconces work best. But if you must plug your wall fixtures into an outlet, camouflage the dangling cords with adhesive raceways. By painting the covers the same color as the wall, the room appears cleaner and less cluttered.
- To prevent uncomfortable glare in the bedroom, avoid using high-wattage bulbs. Halogen bulbs cast a bright, white light that’s practical for activities, but halogens aren’t the ideal choice if you want a warm, cozy atmosphere. For a softer, more alluring environment, use incandescent bulbs that don’t overpower the room and install dimmer switches. For maximum convenience, consider wireless light kits. With a remote control, you can dim the lights or turn the sconces on and off from the comfort of your bed.