How do I Choose the Best Wall-Mounted Light Fixtures?

The best wall-mounted light fixtures for your home complement its overall style rather than contradict it. While you certainly don't have to use the same or even very similar light fixtures throughout your entire home, they should all have a common element, such as color, style or shape. A mishmash of all different wall-mounted light fixtures in many different colors, styles and shapes isn't going to create a consistent style statement in your home. After you view many different fixtures online and/or in person at lighting stores, it's likely you'll discover what type of designs will work best for your needs.

For example, in a contemporary home, clean-lined stainless steel wall sconces often complement the material and shapes used in the interior design. These types of wall-mounted light fixtures have smooth geometrical shapes that include cylindrical, angular, square and globe. All of these shapes could be used in the interior and exterior of the same home because they all share the same finish, style and clean lines. An extremely different type of wall-mounted light fixture, such as a ruffled shade on elaborately sculpted brass fittings, would only look mismatched.

Yet, in a traditional home with a brass fireplace and other trim, wall-mounted light fixtures in the same colored metal can be used throughout. Tulip-shaped brass fixtures may be placed in a bedroom, while lantern style, gold-toned wall-mounted lights could work in an entryway. In this instance, it would be the stainless steel modern fixtures that would look out of place.

Look for easy installation in the fixtures you choose, as some of the wall-mounted lighting available can be complex to install. If you're not sure about the type of wiring or installation that would be best for your home, ask the advice of a knowledgeable home improvement expert. It's better to take the time to be well-prepared to install the wall-mounted light fixtures you choose before drilling holes in your wall.

Another consideration to make when choosing wall-mounted lighting is whether you want the fixtures to blend in with your wall color or stand out from it to create a striking contrast. If you do want contrast, it's easy to create by either having a dark wall with lighter-colored fixtures or vice versa. It's a good idea to choose wall-mounted light fixtures with the future in mind. You should pick a design you like and that suits your decor style, but also one that isn't too trendy if you later decide to redecorate or sell your home. Taking the time to make a wise lighting choice now can save you having to replace the fixtures in the future.