How to Choose Wall SconcesUpdated 2 hours ago

Unlike chandeliers and pendants, wall sconces don't have one universal sizing formula. The right size and placement depend on what the sconce is lighting, the surface it's framing, the fixture's dimensions, ceiling height, furniture placement, and the balance you want.

Standard wall sconces

A good starting point is a fixture centered 60–66" from the finished floor.

For ceilings 9 feet or higher, 66–72" from the floor.

Adjust when the fixture's size or the room's proportions call for it.

Sconces beside a mirror or artwork

• Center approximately 60–66" from the floor, or
• Approximately ⅔ of the way up the mirror or artwork
• Keep matching sconces at the same height

The fixture should frame the mirror or artwork without overwhelming it.

Bedside sconces

A useful starting point is 48–54" from the floor to the center of the fixture, or approximately 24–30" above the top of the mattress.

For adjustable reading sconces, work from where you actually sit to read rather than a fixed measurement.

Consider mattress height, headboard height, nightstand height, the fixture's dimensions, and whether the light is for reading or for atmosphere. The fixture should stay clear of pillows and shouldn't get in the way of getting in and out of bed.

Bathroom vanity sconces

Sconces on either side of the mirror light the face evenly from both sides. A fixture mounted above the mirror casts shadows under the eyes and chin. If the wall allows it, sconces beside the mirror give a better result.

Center them 60–66" from the floor, spaced roughly 36–40" apart for a standard installation. Final spacing follows the mirror width and the fixture size rather than one universal number.

For vertical fixtures, aim to put the light source around eye level.

Leave approximately 6–12" of space above the countertop where practical, and make sure the fixture clears the mirror and the backsplash.

Above-mirror lighting

For a horizontal fixture above a mirror, start at 75–80" from the floor.

Two more things worth getting right:

• The fixture should be about 75–80% of the mirror width. For a 48" mirror, that's a 36–38" fixture
• Mount the bottom of the fixture 6–8" above the top of the mirror, close enough that the light carries down to the face

Adjust for mirror height, ceiling height, fixture height, how tall you are, and the proportions of the bathroom.