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How do I Choose the Best Black Wall Sconces?

M.C. Huguelet
M.C. Huguelet

With the extremely wide variety of black wall sconces available, trying to choose the best ones for you can be overwhelming. To make the selection process easier, you may find it useful to compose a mental wish list before you begin shopping. Begin by examining the wall on which the sconces will be installed to establish potential structural restrictions. Then decide whether you would like a particular sconce style. Finally, determine what type of material you would like your sconces to be made from as well as what kind of finish you want.

Before selecting black wall sconces, you may find it useful to first examine the wall on which they will be installed to establish potential structural restrictions. For instance, if your sconces will be installed into wall recesses, you will need to choose pieces which fit the recesses’ dimensions. If you will be hanging the sconces on a wall made from very solid material such as cinderblock, you may wish to simplify installation by choosing pieces that require minimal drilling.

Man with hands on his hips
Man with hands on his hips

After taking note of any structural restrictions, you can begin to consider which style of black wall sconces you would like. You may find it useful to keep in mind the architectural style of your home or the décor of the room in which the sconces will be hung. If your house is constructed in an Art Deco style, for instance, you may wish to choose sconces which feature geometric shapes, strong vertical lines, and metallic accents. For a Paris flea market-inspired room, you may find that pieces with taper candles, swirling scrollwork, and crystal embellishments work well. Should you want an eclectic look, you may wish to choose black wall sconces in a style that differs from that of the room’s décor.

Once you have decided on a style for your sconces, you can determine what types of materials and finishes you would like. Wrought iron is a popular material for black wall sconces, as are wood and brushed nickel. Also consider whether you would like fixtures with a dramatic glossy finish, a more subtle matte one, or a mixture of the two.

Now that you have established a mental wish list, you can switch your search for black wall sconces into full gear. As you shop, keep in mind that many sconces are easily paintable. Thus if you like the style but not the material or finish of a particular pair, you may be able to tailor it to your needs simply by adding a coat of paint.

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