Make a Bold Statement with Oversized Wall Sconces
Wall sconces are an integral design element that provides both form and function to any space. From illuminating hallways with their shapely silhouettes to accenting specific architectural details, they serve as much more than mere lighting fixtures. For extra dramatic effect, oversized wall sconces make quite the visual impact, immediately drawing the eye to their commanding presence.
Measuring over 21 inches in width, extra long wall sconces are significantly larger than standard sized fixtures. Their amplified proportions allow them to make a bold decorative statement, no matter the room. Let's explore the allure of these attention-grabbing sconces and how to effectively integrate them into your decor.
Benefits of Using Oversized Wall Sconces
From spacious lobbies to soaring dining rooms, extra large spaces beg for an equally substantial lighting source. Oversized sconces fit the bill, providing both illumination and aesthetic appeal.
Increased Illumination
With their widened design, oversized sconces cast a broader swath of light. Their elongated proportions allow them to brighten larger areas that standard sconces simply cannot. Grand foyers, sweeping staircases, and cavernous ballrooms are but a few spaces that benefit from their intensified radiance.
Visual Appeal
The eye-catching silhouette of an oversized sconce makes it a decorative focal point. Drawing attention with their enlarged form, they immediately captivate. Strategically placed, they can accentuate specific architectural or design details. Their commanding presence adds a sense of drama and visual interest to any space.
Functionality
While making a substantial aesthetic statement, oversized sconces also serve significant functional purpose. Their widened form allows them to effectively illuminate spaces that typical lighting fixtures fail to adequately brighten. Long hallways, double-height lobbies, and commercial properties all benefit from their intensified lighting capabilities.
Types of Extra Long Wall Sconces
Oversized sconces are available in a spectrum of styles. Ranging from traditional to contemporary, a vast array exists to coordinate with any decor.
Traditional
Traditional oversized sconces take their design cues from ornate fixtures of yesteryear. Typically made of brass, bronze or crystal, they often feature intricate accents like beveled edges, faceted detailing, and candle-style bulbs. Designs range from geometric patterns to elaborate floral motifs and everything in between. The overall aesthetic channels vintage charm.
Contemporary
If sleek and minimalist is more your style, contemporary oversized sconces fit the bill. Characterized by simple lines and geometric forms, they forgo elaborate adornments. Streamlined shapes crafted from metal and glass give them a very modern, avant-garde look. Their pared-down styling allows them to blend with a variety of decor aesthetics from industrial to midcentury modern.
Rustic
Rustic oversized sconces align with farmhouse, Lodge, and Western design styles. Channeling natural materials like weathered wood or forged iron, they have an unfinished, organic look. Often left in raw form or lightly stained, the natural imperfections in the materials add to their rough-hewn appeal. A popular choice for mountain retreats and urban live-work spaces alike.
Art Deco
For the glamorous touch of Art Deco drama, oversized sconces hit the mark. Lacquered metals with high-gloss finishes capture the sleek lines of 1920s style. Geometric patterns, multi-layered detailing, and bold color choices add to the arresting appeal. Incorporating glass or crystal elements catches and refracts the light, upping the overall allure.
Determining the Right Size
When selecting oversized sconces, you'll want to take proper measurements of your space to determine the best size fixture. As a general guideline, in smaller spaces under 12 feet in height, sconces around 24 inches in length make a suitable statement. For larger rooms with 12 to 15 foot ceilings, sconces in the 30 to 36 inch range better proportion. And for soaring spaces above 15 feet, ironically, even larger sconces up to 48 inches may be needed to provide adequate presence.
Placement and Positioning
Strategically placing your substantial sconces at the optimum height is key for both aesthetic and functional success. Generally, oversized sconces should be mounted approximately 3/4 the distance from the floor to the ceiling. This allows them to be visible without overwhelming. The eye is naturally drawn to the vertical center of a wall, making this positioning ideal.
When using more than one oversized sconce, proper spacing is essential. A general rule of thumb is to separate them at a distance equal to their height above the floor, while alternating sides of the room or hallway. This creates a cohesive, rhythmic arrangement. Allow them to make a bold statement without competiting with other elements like artwork or architectural details. Let them shine in all their oversized glory by giving them breathing room.
Design Variety
Within the different style categories, oversized sconces offer loads of variety when it comes to materials and detailing. Choose from sleek metal like antiqued brass or modern polished nickel. Iron and wood offer rustic texture. While glass and crystal provide brilliant shine. Combine multiple materials like wrought iron frames suspending crystalline elements for extra visual interest.
The design of the shade further impacts the look. Rectangular shades offer clean lines and an overall modern vibe. Rounded drum shades soften, for a more traditional charm. Cage styles allow maximum light dispersion. While tapered candle-lit bulbs focus light in a more ambient glow. Tailor these and other options to your specific needs and style preferences.
Setting the Mood
Beyond the physical design, oversized sconces also provide atmospheric enhancements to a space. Uplighting directs illumination upwards, bouncing flattering light across the ceiling and walls. Downlighting focuses attention directly below. Mixing the two techniques combines overall ambient glow with specific task lighting. Choose bulbs ranging from bright, energizing blue-hued daylight to warmer, tranquil amber-toned incandescent. Then set the perfect mood with dimming capabilities ranging from a delicate glow to full-powered brightness.
Safety Considerations
As with any lighting fixture, proper installation is paramount. Be sure oversized sconces are securely mounted into wall studs to adequately support their weight. Choose the appropriate wattage bulb that does not exceed the fixture rating. Inspect for any cracks, loose parts, or frayed wires before installing. Position away from flammable window treatments. And when in doubt, always defer to a professional electrician.
Brand Spotlights
When investing in oversized statement pieces, quality craftsmanship pays dividends. Reputable lighting brands like Arteriors, Hudson Valley, Cyan Design, and Currey and Company are known for stunning sconce options. While home improvement retailers like Lamps Plus, Lumens, and Wayfair offer more budget-friendly alternatives without sacrificing style.
Decorating Inspiration
When considering how to incorporate substantial sconces into your space, think big. Group multiples over a lobby reception desk or line a hotel corridor to lead the eye. Flank tall windows in formal dining rooms or anchor opposite ends of a fireplace mantle. Display solo as the shining focal point above an entry console or pair to frame an extra wide mirror. The options are endless when adding eye-catching drama with these visually arresting light fixtures.
Oversized wall sconces provide brilliant, artistic flair whether installed individually or collectively. Ranging from crystal-encrusted traditional to streamlined contemporary, the style options fit a spectrum of decors. Mindful placement and proper proportions allow them to enhance aesthetics and illumination. So go ahead, make a visually commanding statement by taking your lighting to the next level with the added allure of extra long wall sconces.