Bedroom Wall Lights

Wall lights can add a touch of elegance to your bedroom while providing the light you need.

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This cherry wood bed delivers clean, modern lines, particularly in the curved support at the foot. Linens in shades of blue and gray allow the wooden frame to stand out against the darker tones of the space. Design by Erica Islas.

By: Gina Hannah

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When choosing bedroom lights that are functional, beautiful and space-saving, wall lighting is hard to beat. Also known as sconces, wall lights can be used to create ambient light or to accent architectural features or accessories in your bedroom. Choices range from simple and functional pieces to unusual designs that serve as art. You can choose from styles ranging from traditional to contemporary to complement your bedroom's decor.

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Wall lights also come in a wide range of sizes, so you can find the best wall light fixtures to fit your space. Even miniature wall lights, which are great space savers, can provide plenty of light if they are equipped with LEDs, or light-emitting diodes. Installed on either side of the bed, these lights are good choices if you prefer to draw attention to other features in your bedroom, such as a dramatic headboard or a piece of wall art.

Install wall lights on each side of your bed to provide light for reading; this also helps free up space on your bedside table. Consider choosing wall lights with adjustable or swing arms, so you and your partner can adjust the lights to your preference for reading in bed. Hang a single wall light in a reading or sitting area to create ambiance and provide extra lighting if that's where you prefer to read. For artwork, consider adding a flat wall light to provide accent lighting over your favorite pieces for a gallery effect.

If you desire a more traditional look, choose wall lights with a faux candle design or even a mini-chandelier. Search antique stores for fixtures that can be updated or refurbished. Decide how much light you need; the amount of light provided by wall-mounted fixtures can vary. Mirrored wall sconces can add a touch of elegance to a bedroom, and they can provide enhanced light. Consider putting your wall lights on dimmer switches, and have separate controls for lights mounted on either side of your bed. To ensure a balanced look, keep some guidelines in mind when installing wall lights. The fixtures typically should be mounted between 60 and 66 inches above the floor, and eight to 10 feet apart. Make sure the light fixtures won't be too close to drapes or other flammable materials and are out of reach of young children. For large rooms, place the fixtures higher: about 6 feet high in a bedroom with an 8-foot ceiling, and about 6.5 feet high in a room with a 9-foot or 10-foot ceiling. Wall lights can also be installed higher to create ambient light similar to that of a flush-mounted ceiling light. In rooms with a vaulted ceiling, choose larger wall lights and place them higher for a dramatic effect.

In the master bathroom, place wall lights on either side of the vanity mirror to provide light that is more flattering than a ceiling light. Globes with frosted glass will make light in the area even more flattering.

See Also: Lighting Planning Guide

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