As a long-term renter who is currently apartment hunting yet again, I am a big proponent of no-fuss, versatile, renter-friendly design. While hardwired lighting is by no means inadvisable for renters (my fellow EHD comrades will attest to that), I’m currently not in a place where I want to invest in it. As I said, my husband and I plan to move to a larger place soon so buying and installing new hardwired lighting in my current apartment feels like an unwise investment. This is a personal choice that stems, in part, from my fear of spending big money on temporary things–a topic for another day or perhaps a therapist :). As much as I love customizing my home, I can be quite noncommittal when it comes to lighting and at this time in my life I am okay with creating ambiance and style through plug-in lighting. Is anyone else with me?? I hope so, because today is all about non-hardwired lighting and where to buy it if you are in the market.
Wait, What Are The Benefits Of Non-Hardwired Lighting?
Before we go any further, I must admit that there are many pros to hardwired lighting. It makes your home look custom and intentional and as design lovers we want our homes to look as good as possible. But sometimes it’s not the most practical, budget-friendly, or even a possibility if you don’t have the ability to remodel. It’s important to know there are other options out there. It also should be noted that I personally like the relaxed look of a swagged cord and find no offense to it (to each their own–I know it’s not for everyone). That said, there are some pros to non-hardwired lighting, too:
- You have more freedom where you put the light. Hardwired lighting needs to be wired to a junction box, and unless you are renovating, you don’t have control over where that junction box is located.
- While a hardwired light is often specifically tailored to fit a space, non-hardwired lighting is more versatile and can easily be moved from room to room. If you are a renter this is especially helpful if you move or plan to move eventually.
- You don’t have to hire an electrician. This saves money and time thus making the plug-in options more budget-friendly.
Along with those pros, I think that plug-in lighting can be just as stylish as its hardwired counterparts. Especially now that there are so many great companies that make high-quality non-hardwired lighting, you don’t have to sacrifice style for function. For example…
In Arlyn’s bedroom, she flanked her headboard with two gorgeous plug-in sconces from Hudson Valley Lighting to provide stylish bedside lighting. Hanging sconces is a great way to add height to your lighting plan as the light from lamps and floor lamps can only go so far. But since Arlyn is a renter, she didn’t have the option to hardwire the sconces. Instead, she opted for these plug-in sconces and the impact is really special and looks more custom than if she would have gone with table lamps. If you are not a fan of the hanging cord look (as I know many of you are not ;)), placing it behind a nightstand or another piece of furniture is a simple hack to make the cord less obvious. You also get more nightstand real estate which is very nice.
Can I direct your attention to the above sconce in Emily’s basement guest room at her last LA house? This “sconce” is actually a vintage table lamp that Emily retrofitted and attached to the wall. Genius! It’s a really simple and unexpected trick that adds a lot of personality.
Now hopefully I have done my job in convincing at least some of you that plug-in lighting is not so bad after all (and maybe preferable in some cases:)). If you are in the market or just want to see what options are available, here are some of our favorite places to shop for them:
1. Zig-Zag Task Sconce: Here’s a sleek modern swing arm sconce that would be a great addition to any room.
2. Accordion Sconce: I love the vintage-inspired lampshade and the accordion-style arm adds a ton of personality.
3. Mixed Shape Multi-Arm Sconce: The mixed shade shapes add a really cool touch to this multi-arm sconce.
1. Leggero Black Pole Sconce: This long and slim sconce will add height and visual interest to your walls.
2. Mantis Swivel Wall Sconce: The shape of this elegant brass sconce is really lovely (reviewers say it’s bigger than expected so make sure to check out the measurements before buying!).
3. Swing Arm Sconce: I love the simplicity of this black swing arm sconce with an exposed bulb, and the attached cord has a stripe pattern that adds a little flair.
1. Plug-In Industrial Copper Pendant Light: This copper zigzag pendant is really unique.
2. 1970s Vintage Crystal Clear Glass Ceiling Light Swag Pendant Lamp: This 1970s vintage glass ceiling pendant would instantly add charm to a space.
3. Mark D. Sikes 1 Light Hampshire Plug In Wall Sconce: This vintage Hudson Valley Lighting sconce has a lovely aged brass finish.
1. Seguin Burnished Brass 2-Light Plug In Wall Sconce: This traditional double light sconce has a nice brass finish and an elegant shape.
2. Pixi Rose Metal and Wood Swivel Plug-In Wall Sconce: Add a pop of color with this wood swivel sconce!
3. Morgan Black Adjustable Arm Plug In Wall Sconce Light: Modern and cool and you know we are big fans of the accordion arm style.
1. Edvin Plug-in Wall Sconce: Reviewers rave about the quality and style of this sconce. The seller also offers hardwired options!
2. Pendant Light Ceramic Shade Brass Ceiling Light: I am obsessed with these and think they would look so cute in a vintage farmhouse-style kitchen.
3. KRINOLIN Mid-modern Plug-In Wood Pendant: This handmade wood pendant is really special and affordable.
1. Noah Wall Light: Gantri is known for design forward plug-in lighting that is made from plant-based materials. This oversized bulb light wall light was inspired by the designer’s son and recalls the shape of a pregnant belly. How cool is that?
2. Carve Wall Light (Right): This light would add a sculptural element to your walls.
3. Gio Wall Light: This one is 70s inspired and comes in a variety of colors.
1. Navin: Simple, elegant, and could work with a ton of styles.
2. Cranbrook: There are so many lovely details on this one that really stand out and make a quiet statement.
3. Fifi: The scallop detail on this picture light is really special.
1. Level Wired: This minimal wall light is 44″ long and would add architectural interest to a room.
2. LAHM 04+ Pendant Wired: The geometric shade on this pendant creates a warm and diffused light.
3. Otha Sconce Wired: How cool is this asymmetrical cube light?
1. Alameda Plug-In Sconce: The twisted arm is so cool and modern and I like that it is paired with a traditional shade for a balanced look.
2. Dellon Double Plug-In Sconce: I LOVE this modern take on the accordion-style sconce.
3. Sereno 2-Light Plug-In Sconce: This sconce has rotating slim brass arms so you can angle the light in different ways.
1. Nelson Cigar Bubble Wall Sconce: A true classic that will never go out of style! Remember when Em had the ball version in her primary bedroom??
2. Vernon Picture Light: A picture light that’s a plug-in is such a dream. No commitment to sconces or art placement needed. These also come in a couple of other sizes.
3. Platet LED Cone Wall Sconce: A cool, modern statement wall light!
1. “Potence” Style Otis Light: This long arm sconce is incredible and the wood ball handle is a really nice detail.
2. Double-Jointed Swing Lamp: You can customize this double-jointed swing lamp and mix and match the finishes.
3. Night Shelf: A shelf and a sconce! This would be perfect for a small space.
1. Darcie Sconce: This French Midcentury-inspired sconce has an articulating arm so you can direct the light as you please. I love the wood detail, too.
2. Carson 12″ Plug-In Indoor/Outdoor Pendant With Cage: I am a sucker for vintage lighting. I would love to see this in a retro kitchen!
3. Cypress Double Swing Arm Pin-Up Sconce: I want to see this double swing arm sconce in an MCM-style home immediately!
1. Isaac Plug-In Sconce: I have always loved this bright red Schoolhouse sconce. The color is intense but looks VERY cool in the right space.
2. Apartment Plug-In Pendant: There are so many customizable options available for this pendant.
3. Gantry Pivot Plug-In Sconce: This sconce reaches over 36″ and provides great direct light.
1. Looped Rope Convertible Pendant: This rope pendant would add texture and warmth to any room.
2. Cyrus Arched Swing Arm Sconce: This one is vintage industrial-inspired and I love the aged finish.
3. LED Gooseneck Reading Light: Simple, modern, and perfect for bedside lighting!
1. Modern Swing Arm Wall Lamp: This sleek swing arm wall lamp comes equipped with a full range dimmer switch.
2. Swing Arm Adjustable Wall Lamp: The rattan shade adds softness add warmth to this modern wall lamp.
3. Cleo 1-Light Matte Black Plug-In Sconce: If you are looking for an affordable modern wall sconce this is a great option.
1. Fatboy® Bolleke Indoor/Outdoor Pendant: This battery-operated light can be used both indoors and outdoors and the silicone loop can be twisted however you’d like.
2. UO Fabric Cord Kit: With this pendant light cord kit, you can find the perfect shade to complete the look.
3. Bradley Sconce: I love the color and finish on this one.
Are there any other lighting roundups you would like to see from us? Sound off in the comments below. xx
Opener Image Credit: Design by Brady Tolbert | Photo by Tessa Neustadt | From: Brady’s Bedroom Makeover With Parachute
The post The Case For Plug-In Sconces And Non-Hardwired Lighting (+ Where To Buy The Good Ones) appeared first on Emily Henderson.