Does your vacation rental need a wall sconce or two? Probably. Wall lights are a chic and functional addition to your lighting plan, especially as reading light in bedrooms, as task lighting in kitchens and as decorative lighting in hallways. They’re often a good fit for when a boring wall just needs a little something extra.
Note: All content is our own (that is, not sponsored), but if you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. All prices listed are U.S. pricing and correct at the time of publishing.
Add Instant Style to Your Airbnb with Wall Sconces
Important things to note when you’re shopping for wall lights.
- Plug-in sconces usually require that you connect the cord yourself. That’s so you have the choice of hardwiring them. If you don’t feel comfortable or confident handling wires, you may want to hire an electrician.
- Note the location of the switch, If it’s on the cord make sure it won’t fall behind a piece of furniture or add a plug-in wireless wall switch like this one.
- I’ve separated corded and hardwired sconces, but know that you can add a cord to almost any fixture or hardwire fixtures that come with a plug. If the fixture doesn’t have an on/off switch use a cord like this that has a switch on it or use a plug-in wall switch as noted above. Hire an electrician for this to make sure your altered sconce is safe.
- If it needs bulbs, order them with the sconce. Some require certain-size LED bulbs that can be hard to find at the hardware store.
- For bathrooms that get condensation build up from a shower or bath choose damp-rated fixtures. You only need wet-rated fixtures for showers or places where lights will get splashed.
Plug-In Wall Sconces for Your Airbnb
I love plug-in wall sconces as bedside reading lamps in vacation rentals. They’re stylish, affordable, and easy to install.
- Blush Pink Sconce $25.99 There are a couple of variations on this fixture available, but this one is my favorite. The soft pink color makes an unexpected statement.
- Simple Gold Sconce, $54.99. Available with a cord or without, and also in a set of two. The bulb is a part of the charm, and it’s not included so be sure to order one with the fixture. These look pretty good.
- Swing Arm Sconces Set of 2 $119, also available in black. Nice transitional fixtures that tick a lot of boxes – shades for glare reduction, a positionable swing arm and switches on the fixtures themselves.
- Retro Swing Arm Wall Sconce $63.98. Also available in black. A classic mid-century modern style with a dramatic long arm.
- Minimal Linear Sconce $99.99 as pictured, different sizes and colors available. These minimalist fixtures definitely look expensive. I think they would look better hardwired, but the cord is a nice option. For a vacation rental, I’d ditch the remote and use a plug-in switch.
- Rattan Wall Sconces $58.99 for a set of two. Cute, cheerful and cheap, a win-win-win.
- Matte Black and Brass Sconce $27.99 Well priced, good looking, and positionable.
- Transitional Shaded Sconce $32.39, also available with a swing arm, and in silver or gold. A cheap, chic choice for more traditional decor.
- Mid-Century Style Sconce Set of 2 $149. I like them so much I bought them for my bedroom. They have a USB outlet in the base, but I can’t comment on that as I haven’t used it. They are positionable.
Hardwired Wall Sconces for Your Vacation Rental
If you’re not afraid of a little electrical work, or you’ve got the wiring already set up for wall sconces, these picks will add a dose of instant style.
- Mid-Mod Style Sconce $92.99, also available in black. Atomic Age fun.
- Simple Globe Light $55.99, also available in brushed nickel, chrome and black. Looks good installed either as a wall or ceiling fixture.
- Adjustable Angle Simple Sconces. $85.49 for a set of 2. Also in black. Minimal but still stylish.
- Pleated Shade Sconce Set. $49.99 for a set of 2. Also available in gold. Simple and on-trend.
- Glass Globe Draped Sconce Pair. $199.99 for a set of 2. Also available in black. Buying the pair should ensure that there’s a “left” and “right” fixture.
- Brass Disk Wall Sconce. $84.99 Modern style that looks expensive.
- Green and White Double Head Wall Sconces. $89.99 for a set of 2. A charming vintage look that will add a subtle pop of color in the right space.
- Hanging Wall Light $29.99, also available in all gold. Kind of a cross between a pendant and a sconce, and you can’t beat the price!
- Rattan Wall Sconces, $59.99 for a set of 2. The perfect finishing touch for your beachy boho bedroom.
And there you have it, a bounty of beauteous wall sconces to illuminate your vacation rental, all affordable and cool. Have any of them caught your fancy? Already have one or two of these? Let me know in the comments!
