Choosing the Perfect Cozy Cottage Style Shaded Wall Sconces
Find the best ideas and tips on how to choose the perfect cozy cottage style shaded wall sconces for your home.
We added wall sconces to the wall behind our living room couch a couple of weeks ago, and I have to say, they have completely transformed the space.
Even Mr. ERH was impressed. You know it’s a big deal when the hubby notices the difference!
It feels so much warmer and cozier.
The sconces provide functional lighting for reading books (which we desperately needed because I despise overhead lights) while also serving as decorative pieces that add to the overall charm of our living room.
But here’s the thing…
When I started my search for a cottage style wall light, I had no idea where to start or what to look for.
With so many options available from different designs, finishes, shades, and countless other factors, it felt overwhelming.
Finally, after plenty of research (and plenty of indecisive moments), I found the perfect pair that ticked all the boxes.
So, if you’ve been thinking of adding a new wall sconce to your home, let me tell you…it’s worth it!
Not only do sconces provide the perfect solution for ambient lighting, but they’ll up the cozy factor in any room you choose to hang them in.
In this post, I’ll share everything I learned during my search for the perfect cottage-style wall lights, from what features to prioritize to tips for finding sconces that blend style and functionality along with a few of my favorite sconces that you can shop for.
Let’s find the perfect wall sconce for your home!
What is a wall sconce?
A wall sconce is a type of light fixture that is mounted directly on a wall rather than the ceiling.
Like this…
They come in a wide range of styles, finishes, and designs, which is nice because you can easily choose a look that complements your home decor.
Wall sconces often feature shades or covers that direct light either upward, downward, or outward which are the sconces we’ll talk about in this post.
Here are four key points about wall-mounted lights…
- Placement: Wall sconces are commonly used in living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, dining rooms, bathrooms, and entryways. They’re often installed in pairs or groups for symmetry and added impact.
- Uses: They can provide soft ambient lighting, more focused task lighting, or decorative accent lighting, depending on the design and placement.
- Styles: From traditional and vintage to modern and minimalist, sconces are available in a variety of styles to match your decor.
- Benefits: Wall sconces are a great way to free up floor & table space and also provide soft lighting without the harshness of overhead lights.
What is a Cottage-Style Shaded Sconce Light
Cottage style is all about warmth, character, and a little bit of vintage charm so these are a few of the features you’ll want to look for when shopping for a new light.
- Soft and Simple Lines: Avoid overly ornate designs and focus instead on gentle curves or classic shapes.
- Lamp Shades: Look for linen, cotton, or wicker shades in white, cream, or beige. Floral prints, gingham patterns, or stripes can also add an extra layer of cottage charm.
- Materials with Character: Metallic finishes like aged brass, gold, or oil-rubbed bronze will add that warm feeling to your home.
How to Pick the Right Sconce Light for Your Home
Choosing the perfect sconce for your home may seem like a small decision, but it can make a big impact on the overall look and feel of your living space.
With so many options available, you’ll want to find the right light that fits your functional needs but also complements your home’s decor.
Asking yourself the right questions will help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect wall light for your home.
Five Questions to Consider…
- What is the purpose of this sconce? Will it be used for ambient lighting, task lighting, or decorative purposes? Knowing how you want it to function will guide you in choosing the right style and brightness.
- Is the sconce hardwired, or does it plug in? Consider how the sconce will be powered. If it’s hardwired, do you already have electricity where you want to hang it, or will you need to hire an electrician? If there’s no wiring, battery operated or plug-in sconces might be the better choice.
- Where will the sconce be installed, and does its size fit the space? Think about the specific location of the sconce
and where you want to hang it. You’ll want to make sure the light is appropriately sized and positioned for the wall & the room’s layout. - What kind of lighting do I want? Do you want a warm, diffused light for a cozy atmosphere or a brighter, focused light for specific tasks? The shade material and bulb type will play a big role in creating the desired effect.
- What is my budget? Wall sconces come in a wide range of prices from $50 to $1,000, so determine how much you’re willing to spend. Keep in mind that additional costs, like hiring an electrician for installation or purchasing specialty bulbs, can add to the cost.
pro Tip
- If you find a hard-wired sconce you love but don’t want to hire an electrician, you can use a rechargeable lightbulb or puck lights instead. Which is exactly what we did! It’s an easy, budget-friendly way to install a hard wired wall sconce without the added expense of an electrician.
Things to Avoid When Selecting a Wall Sconce
When choosing a new light fixture, you’ll want to avoid a few common mistakes to make sure your sconce is right for your living space.
The first mistake to avoid is ignoring the scale of the fixture.
A sconce that is too large can overwhelm a small wall, making the space feel cramped and cluttered, while a sconce that is too small might get lost on a larger wall.
Always measure the area where the sconce will be installed and consider its proportions in relation to the surrounding furniture and decor.
Another mistake is overlooking the lighting needs of the space.
It’s easy to get caught up in the aesthetics of a fixture, but it’s important to consider how much light the sconce will give you.
Last but not least, be careful of selecting a sconce that clashes with your home’s decor style.
For instance, a modern sconce can feel out of place in a cottage style home.
simple cozy living
Want more inspiration to make your home feel cozy and inviting?
Check out our collection of home decor ideas for creative tips and stylish touches you’ll love!
Shop Cottage-Style Shaded Wall Sconces
Now that you know your budget, the purpose of the sconce, and the key things to avoid, it’s time to start shopping for the perfect wall sconce to complement your home!
To make things easier for you, I’ve rounded up a collection of cozy shaded sconces that combine cottage charm with functionality. Whether you’re looking for something classic or vintage inspired, I think you’ll find this selection has something for every space, style, and budget.
As a reminder, these are affiliate links. If you make a purchase using a link, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
What is the best height to install a wall-mounted light fixture?
Wall sconces are typically installed at eye level, about 60–66 inches from the floor (we hung our wall sconces at 59″).
However, the exact height and ideal placement can vary depending on your space and purpose of the light.
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What is the best lightbulb to use in a sconce for warm light?
Besides the battery-operated lightbulbs we are using in our sconces, this GE Reveal light bulb is the only other bulb we use in our home.
It gives a warm, inviting glow that’s perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere and it’s gentle on your eyes.
How do I clean a shaded light sconce?
You can use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the fixture and shade regularly.
I’ve found that for fabric shades, a lint roller or vacuum with a brush attachment works well to remove any dust.
Make sure to avoid harsh chemicals that could damage finishes or fabric.
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What type of lampshades work best for that cozy, cottage style look?
I think shades in neutral tones like cream, beige, or soft pastels work best for cottage style.
Fabric shades add warmth and texture, while patterns like gingham or floral prints can enhance the charm.
Final Thoughts on Cottage Shaded Wall Sconces
Don’t overlook the power of a wall sconce!
Shaded sconces are a great way to add both function and charm to your home whether you’re looking to create a cozy reading nook, add ambiance to your living room, or enhance the decor in a hallway.
Remember when choosing a sconce to keep your budget, style, and lighting needs in mind, and don’t forget to consider the finer details like scale, finishes, and shade material.
Sconces are more than just lighting, they’re a statement piece that adds personality and warmth to any living space.
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xoxo, heidi
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Yes! Here it is: https://rstyle.me/+nFTBXlf0t_vkDz7SQci2LA
Hi! Could you provide a link for the exact sconce you used?
Thank you!
Hi Kelly, Our living room sectional is from Jordan’s Furniture which is a local furniture chain in New England. Let me know if you have any other questions!
I LOVE the couch in the photo! Can you please tell me where you purchased it from? I am having a very difficult time finding the perfect slipcovered sofa!!
Hi Amy. The framed art was from the Hearth & Hand spring collection. I’m not sure if it’s still available for purchase but here is the link: https://rstyle.me/+a8SCpQko8vOCgkeDMNn28g
Where did the framed picture you have over your sofa come from?
Thank you!
Hi Cheryl, Great question! I should have included in the blog post that we simply tucked the hardwiring of the sconce inside the base that we mounted on the wall. This way if we ever want to use them somewhere else that does have hardwiring, we have the option to do that. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Love the look you created. I wonder though, if it is a hard wired fixture and a rechargeable lightbulb would be used, what do you do with the unused wiring on the fixture? Can it be tucked into the base? I have a spot I’m considering. I have a vintage small chandelier in the space right now. It’s in a corner (the corner of our sectional against two walls, so it works and adds a different look. It’s been converted to a plug in. I like the idea of a sconce but not the cost and permanent placement in hardwiring it.