Everything you need to know about vintage wall sconces
Key takeaways:
- A vintage wall sconce is a wall-mounted light fixture whose design evokes a bygone era, in materials such as aged brass, blown glass or patinated metal.
- It also fits into a contemporary interior, and an LED bulb keeps its retro look while using little energy.
- Mount it between 1.5 m and 1.8 m above the floor in a hallway or passageway, and have the electrical connection carried out by a qualified electrician.
A vintage wall sconce is a wall light in the style of yesteryear, whose design evokes a bygone era and brings originality and charm to your home. Vintage sconces come in a wide range of styles, materials and finishes, for every taste and every decor.
Whether in metal, wood, brass or glass, our collection brings together models chosen for their aesthetic. These sconces create a retro atmosphere while providing functional lighting, which is equally welcome in a living room, a bedroom or a hallway.
The word vintage covers several worlds: opaline globes from the thirties, brass arms from old-time cafés, sheet-metal reflectors from workshops, or country lanterns. This guide helps you find your way around, and choose and install the right model.
Vintage wall sconce: how to choose
A vintage wall sconce can transform the atmosphere of your room. Opt for materials such as aged brass or blown glass for an authentic style. Models with an LED bulb save energy, with a light intensity suited to your needs.
In a bedroom, a living room or a hallway, a well-chosen vintage sconce adds a touch of elegance and nostalgia. Keep in mind that unlacquered brass develops a patina over time: its color darkens and becomes more nuanced, which enhances its character. Discover our brass wall sconces.
| Material | Look | Style |
|---|---|---|
| Aged brass | Warm, patinated | Retro chic |
| Blown glass | Soft light, slight irregularities | Retro, authentic |
| Black metal and glass | Sturdy | Industrial |
| Wood | Natural | Rustic, country |
The originality of vintage sconces
Vintage sconces stand out for their distinctive design and for how easily they blend into very different interiors. They are perfect for creating a retro atmosphere in a modern interior, and they give character to your home, where a neutral light fixture would go unnoticed.
The industrial style, for example, pairs black-finished metal with glass, for a sturdy and authentic effect. Articulated arms, metal cages and enameled reflectors are its best-known forms. Discover our industrial wall sconces and our metal wall sconces.
Online light fixture store
Our online store offers a wide range of vintage wall sconces. You will find models for every style, and new arrivals to discover, each with a product page that specifies the dimensions, materials and bulb type.
The white vintage sconce with a glass shade, for example, suits bright interiors, where it blends into the wall and lets the shape speak for itself. Discover our glass wall sconces and our white wall sconces.
The rustic style of wall sconces appeals to city dwellers too
Even in the city, the rustic style of vintage wall sconces is very popular. These light fixtures bring a country touch to an urban interior, for a welcoming and pleasant atmosphere that stands out against the coldness of smooth surfaces.
Natural materials, such as wood and aged brass, combined with classic designs, give them a timeless charm. A single sconce of this kind is sometimes enough to warm up a white kitchen or an entryway. Discover our wooden wall sconces.
Vintage wall sconces: why are they so popular?
Vintage wall sconces are popular because they evoke a bygone era while remaining functional and attractive. They often combine durable materials, elegant designs and careful finishes.
They add a decorative touch to every room of the house. On dimmer-compatible models, the light intensity can be adjusted to the time of day, provided you use an LED bulb marked "dimmable". Discover our dimmable wall sconces.
Vintage sconces: beyond the retro style
Their style is resolutely retro, but vintage sconces also blend into contemporary decors. They bring an artistic dimension and a touch of nostalgia, which make every space more welcoming.
Their versatility makes them a favorite of interior decorators, with a wide variety of shapes, colors and materials. The mix works all the better when the rest of the decor is understated. Discover our modern wall sconces and, for the geometric lines of the thirties, our Art Deco wall sconces.
Discover our collection of vintage wall sconces
Every light fixture in our collection has been carefully selected, for its design and for the rightness of its style.
For the living room, the bedroom or the hallway, you will find models suited to your needs. The glass and metal wall sconce with a brass finish, for example, adds charm and elegance to your home. Discover our living room wall sconces and our bedroom wall sconces.
How do you choose and install a vintage wall sconce?
To choose the best vintage wall sconce, consider the available space, the style of your interior and the lighting effect you want. Models in brass or blown glass are perfect for a retro chic atmosphere.
For installation, follow the instructions included with the light fixture, and have the electrical connection carried out by a qualified electrician. A properly installed sconce lights effectively and decorates your home.
As for the bulb, an LED with an exposed filament reproduces the look of old bulbs without their consumption. Incandescent bulbs were withdrawn from sale between 2009 and 2012: a warm white LED replaces them to good advantage. See our LED wall sconces.
At what height should you mount a wall sconce?
The sconce must be mounted at the right height, for good lighting and a harmonious result. In a hallway or passageway, allow generally between 1.5 and 1.8 meters above the floor, so that the light source stays above eye level.
For a bedside sconce or a reading light, adjust the height according to use and the layout of the furniture. In a long hallway, space the sconces two to two and a half meters apart, for even light. Discover our hallway wall sconces and our headboard wall sconces.
Are there rustic wall sconces with a switch?
Yes, some rustic-style wall sconces have a built-in switch, which makes them practical. They are perfect in bedrooms and living rooms, where you want to turn the light on easily without getting up.
The built-in switch adds comfort without taking anything away from the vintage style of the light fixture. The retro metal and glass wall sconce, for example, combines aesthetics and practicality.
Frequently asked questions about vintage wall sconces
How do you choose a vintage wall sconce?
Opt for authentic materials, such as brass, blown glass or aged metal. The finish matters a great deal: prefer patinated models or those with an aged effect.
Finally, think about LED lighting, to use little energy while keeping the vintage look.
What makes vintage sconces so original?
Their design, which evokes bygone eras. In aged brass or blown glass, they bring charm and elegance to every space.
Their varied shapes and careful finishes make them true decorative pieces.
Why buy a vintage wall sconce online?
For the wide choice of models and styles, from classic pieces to more contemporary designs.
Detailed descriptions help you decide with full knowledge of the facts, and check that the product meets your needs.
Is the rustic style suitable for a city apartment?
Yes. Rustic-style vintage sconces bring a country touch to a city interior, for a welcoming atmosphere.
In wood or aged brass, they blend into a modern decor, with a touch of authenticity.
Why are vintage wall sconces so popular?
Because they combine function and retro aesthetics. They bring elegance and nostalgia to every interior.
The diversity of styles, materials and finishes makes them easy to integrate. They create a welcoming and intimate atmosphere, ideal in living rooms, bedrooms and hallways.
Is a vintage sconce suitable for a modern interior?
Yes. It creates a focal point in a room or completes an existing decorative theme.
It blends into modern designs while keeping a classic look. With LEDs, it combines vintage aesthetics and low consumption.
What will you find in our collection of vintage wall sconces?
Models with an authentic design, in aged brass, blown glass or metal, for every taste.
Each product page specifies the dimensions, materials and bulb type, so you can choose with confidence.
Do white wall sconces go with the rustic style?
Yes, especially when combined with natural materials, such as wood or brass. Their neutral color creates an interesting contrast with darker or more textured elements, and brings brightness and freshness.
They light a kitchen or a hallway well, with a rustic and elegant aesthetic.
What does the price of a vintage-style sconce depend on?
On the materials used, the design and the complexity of manufacture. Brass and blown glass are more upscale than a simple metal model.
The price of each model is shown on its product page.
How do you install a wall sconce?
Follow these six steps, and have the connection carried out by a professional:
- Mark the location of the fixing holes on the wall.
- Drill the holes and insert the wall plugs.
- Attach the sconce's mounting plate.
- Have the electrical connection carried out by a qualified electrician.
- Attach the sconce to the mounting plate.
- Test the lighting.
Which bulb for a vintage wall sconce?
A filament LED bulb, in warm white. It reproduces the golden glow of old bulbs, with low consumption.
Check the base indicated on the product page and, if the sconce is connected to a dimmer, the "dimmable" mention on the bulb.
Can you install a vintage sconce in a bathroom?
Yes, provided you choose a model rated IP44 at minimum, and respect the safety zones defined by standard NF C 15-100.
The IP rating is shown on the product page. Installation and connection should be entrusted to a qualified electrician.