Choosing the Right Luxury Wall Sconces for Outdoor

Outdoor wall sconces aren’t just lights; they’re the first impression your home gives after dark. The right ones make your entryway safer and your exterior look more polished. Here’s what to think about when choosing them.

Think About Purpose

Ask yourself: Do you need sconces for safety, ambiance, or style? For pathways or doorways, go for brighter, functional sconces that provide clear visibility. For patios or seating areas, choose softer, ambient lighting that creates a warm glow.

Match the Style of Your Home

Choose outdoor wall sconces that match your home’s look. For a modern space, go for clean, simple designs that don’t overpower the architecture. If your home is more traditional, lantern-style or metal finishes like bronze or brass blend in beautifully and feel timeless.

Choose the Right Size & Placement

When choosing outdoor sconces, think about scale. Fixtures that are too tiny disappear against the wall, while oversized ones can feel awkward. Aim for a size that’s roughly one-third the height of your door and install them at eye level for both style and function.

Prioritize Durability

Since these fixtures are outside, opt for weather-resistant finishes and rust-proof materials like aluminum, stainless steel, or powder-coated metal. This ensures your sconces stay beautiful and functional for years.

Add Personality with Unique Designs

If you want your home to stand out, explore unique outdoor wall sconces with artistic shapes, textured glass, or bold finishes. These not only provide light but also act as design accents.

Outdoor wall sconces should make your space both functional and stylish. Balance practical needs like brightness and durability with outdoor furniture style that match your home’s personality for the best results.

Frequently Ask Questions

Yes, wall sconces are very much in style right now.  Design trends show people love using sconces for soft, layered lighting that adds warmth and depth to a room.  Vintage-inspired styles, sculptural shapes, and materials like brass, crystal, and natural stone are especially popular. 

For outdoor wall sconces, the right lumen level depends on the purpose and placement:

  • General ambient lighting around patios, porches, or entryways: 250–400 lumens per fixture works well.
  • Security or brighter visibility driveways, garage areas: aim for 700–1200 lumens.
  • Accent lighting to highlight architectural details: around 100–250 lumens is usually enough.

Tip: Choose a lumen level that gives good visibility without creating glare, and consider using dimmable or motion-sensor sconces for flexibility.