What is a wall sconce I hear you ask? Well the dictionary defines a sconce as a wall mounted fitting capable of holding a light. Therefore by definition a sconce is a wall sconce! Sconces first made their appearance around Medieval times and were used to hold torches (the preferred lighting for castles according to the movies!) Actually they were used on the outside of castle or fortified walls for lighting the way. See the picture from an Irish Castle below.

Sconces have been used continuously since that time. They were most usually candle wall sconces, as candles were what was available, but when gas became available there were gas sconces. Today there are sconces of all varieties, wall mounted electrical sconces are popular as are many forms of candle wall sconces. Outdoor wall sconces are also being used.

Wall sconces are available in so many different designs, styles and finishes that there will be something for every kind of decor conceivable! Here is a list of some kinds of wall sconce - candle wall sconces, antique wall sconce, brass wall sconce, bronze wall sconce, wrought iron wall sconce, battery operated wall sconces, outdoor wall sconces, modern wall sconce, crystal wall sconces,contemporary wall sconces and copper wall sconces. As you can see there are many many different material used to create sconces and many different styles as well. I have also seen rice paper wall sconces, which obviously should not be used with candles!

When choosing wall sconces you need to consider the area you are lighting, the effect you wish to create, and your current decor. It is easier to install electrical wall sconces when you are building or renovating a house, than it is afterwards. It can be quite an upheaval and expense to have the wiring of a house modified, not to mention the repainting that will be required. Candle wall sconces and battery operated wall sconces are mounted just like a picture and can be put up anytime. Exterior wall sconces should be wired in if they are to provide safety and unattended lighting.

There are many themed sconces around, so if you wish to follow a nautical theme you will find nautical wall sconces to suit. Other types of sconces that are popular are white ones and Tiffany wall sconces.

When working out the number of wall lights you will need to consider whether the lighting is just mood lightingor general room lighting. For mood lighting a single candle wall sconce or a pair of sconces will make a feature that can provide ambiance. For general lighting wall sconces are usually installed with at least two, but depending upon the length of the room more may be appropriate. Care should be taken with positioning to ensure that the sconces are neither too high nor too low and place equally along a wall, taking special architectural features into account. It is recommended that sconces should be placed no lower than 5feet 6 inches from the ground, the actual height will depend upon the room height and balance for the rooms interior design and lighting.

There are so many styles to choose from - where do you start. The best way to get an idea f styles, sizes and costs is to look online. Once you have an idea of what appeals to you , try to visit a store and have a good look at, preferably try to see it mounted on a wall and with a light in it. Having the light in it can really change the effect.