24 Best Apartment Living Room Wall Sconces You Can Buy Today

One thing I’ve learned about apartment living room is that lighting is makes a difference. A living room without the right lighting it be darkness, no matter how good the furniture looks. The tricky part is that most apartments don’t let you hardwire new fixtures, which means you need lighting that’s renter-friendly. That’s where wall sconces come in.

Wall sconces free up floor space, add style, and give you flexible lighting that fits small apartments. You don’t have to hire an electrician either. Many sconces plug into the wall or run on batteries, so you can put them where you need light most. I like using them near a sofa for reading, above side tables for extra glow, or even on blank walls that need a little character.

In this guide, I’ve gathered 24 of the best wall sconces you can buy for an apartment living room. Each one has something practical about it whether it’s the swing arm that saves space, the cordless setup for tricky walls, or the dimmable function for cozy evenings. These aren’t just decorative pieces; they’re functional lights that fit real apartments.

Best Apartment Living Room Wall Sconces

1. Plug-In Swing Arm Wall Sconce

Plug-in swing arm sconces are one of the most flexible choices for apartment living rooms. They’re easy to mount, and since they plug right into an outlet, there’s no need for hardwiring.

The swing arm feature makes it simple to move the light where you need it whether that’s above your sofa for reading or over a side table for extra brightness.

I find these especially useful in smaller spaces where a floor lamp would feel too bulky. Many designs also include dimmer switches, which mean you can adjust the light for cozy evenings or brighter settings when hosting friends.

Pros:

• Easy to install with no hardwiring
• Adjustable arm for flexible lighting
• Works well in small spaces

Cons:

• Visible cord unless you use a cord cover
• Takes up wall space if used in narrow areas

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

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2. Battery-Operated Wall Sconce

For renters who prefer a cordless look, battery-operated wall sconces are a great option. They don’t rely on outlets, so you can place them almost anywhere in your living room.

Most run on LED puck lights that are either rechargeable or replaceable, making them easy to maintain. I like these in corners where outlets are hard to reach or on blank walls that need a little character.

The cordless setup also keeps things neat and uncluttered, which is ideal for small apartments. The only trade-off is remembering to recharge or swap batteries, but the clean look is worth it.

Pros:

• No cords for a clean setup
• Easy to mount almost anywhere
• Great for walls with no outlet nearby

Cons:

• Batteries need replacing or recharging
• Not always as bright as plug-in models

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

Nordic Indoor Wall Lamps All Copper Acrylic Background Wall Wall Light with G4 Base Wall Sconce

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3. Modern Minimalist Wall Sconce

Minimalist wall sconces work well if you like a clean and simple look. Designs often come in finishes like matte black, brushed nickel, or white, which blend with most living room styles.

These sconces usually focus on soft ambient lighting rather than direct task light, making them ideal for creating a calm atmosphere in the evenings.

I find them useful for framing artwork, brightening up side tables, or even balancing a TV wall with subtle light. Since they’re not overly decorative, you can easily pair them with other decor without worrying about clashing.

Pros:

• Sleek style that works with many designs
• Easy to pair with artwork or side tables
• Doesn’t overwhelm small living rooms

Cons:

• Limited brightness for tasks
• Some designs may look too plain if you prefer bold decor

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

Modern-style Retro All Copper Lamp Body Wall Sconces Nordic Style Minimalist 2 Lamp Heads Crystal Lampshade Wall Lamps with E14 Base 3-color Lighting

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4. Vintage-Style Wall Sconce

If your apartment living room leans more traditional or eclectic, a vintage-style wall sconce adds character. These often feature brass, bronze, or antique finishes that give a warm and timeless look.

I like using them on either side of a sofa or above a reading chair to create a cozy corner. Many plug-in options mimic the old-fashioned hardwired versions, so you get the classic style without needing an electrician.

Some designs even come with Edison bulbs, which add a warm glow and vintage charm. It’s a simple way to bring personality into a rental space.

Pros:

• Adds charm and personality
• Works well with traditional or eclectic styles
• Warm light when paired with Edison bulbs

Cons:

• Can look out of place in very modern spaces
• Some models are more decorative than functional

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

DFWZMQTG Nordic Vintage Glass Wall Lamps Personality

Creative Gold Petal Wall Light with E26/E27 Base 

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5. Industrial Wall Sconce

Industrial wall sconces are a good fit for apartments with a modern, loft-style, or rustic feel. They usually feature metal cages, matte black finishes, or exposed bulbs.

These sconces give off strong light, so they’re great for task lighting near a desk or reading nook. I like that they double as a design statement, adding an edge to a plain wall.

Plug-in versions make them renter-friendly, and you can choose dimmable bulbs if you prefer softer lighting. They also pair well with brick, concrete, or wood accents, making them versatile for different apartment styles.

Pros:

• Strong lighting for tasks
• Stylish with loft or rustic decor
• Plug-in options available for renters

Cons:

• Can feel too harsh for cozy spaces
• Exposed bulbs may cause glare if placed too high

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

HOEDGHEOE Wall Lamp, Modern Line Wall Lamp Black Industrial Style Minimalist Living Room Background Sconce Light Bedroom Wall

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6. Adjustable LED Wall Sconce

Adjustable LED sconces are practical for apartments because they use energy-efficient bulbs and often come with dimmable settings.

The adjustable feature means you can angle the light up, down, or sideways depending on where you need it. They’re perfect if you want one light to do multiple jobs, like reading and creating mood lighting.

Pros:

• Energy-saving LED technology
• Adjustable for both task and ambient lighting
• Long-lasting bulbs with less heat

Cons:

• Some designs look too modern for classic decor
• Requires specific bulbs for replacement

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

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7. Double-Light Wall Sconce

A double-light sconce gives you more brightness than a single bulb fixture, which makes it useful for larger living rooms.

Many designs have two shades branching out from a central mount, creating balance on wide walls. I like these above a sofa or on an accent wall where one light wouldn’t be enough.

Pros:

• Provides more coverage in larger spaces
• Creates a balanced, symmetrical look
• Works well as a main wall feature

Cons:

• Can feel oversized in small apartments
• Uses more energy than single sconces

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

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8. Fabric Shade Wall Sconce

Sconces with fabric shades add a softer, warmer glow to the living room. They diffuse the light so it doesn’t feel harsh, which is great for cozy evenings.

I find them especially useful near seating areas where you want comfortable lighting. Neutral shades also work well with most apartment decor styles.

Pros:

• Softens light for a cozy atmosphere
• Blends easily with different interiors
• Adds texture and warmth to walls

Cons:

• Fabric can collect dust over time
• Less suitable for strong task lighting

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

ERTXGBA French Style Fabric Art Lampshade Wall Lamps

Creative All Copper Lamp Body Wall Sconces with E14

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9. Glass Globe Wall Sconce

Glass globe sconces bring a modern yet timeless touch. The clear or frosted glass globes spread light evenly, which makes them ideal for small apartments that need extra brightness. I like them as pairs on either side of a sofa or even flanking a TV wall for balance.

Pros:

• Bright, even light distribution
• Stylish design that feels timeless
• Works in both modern and mid-century setups

Cons:

• Glass can be fragile and needs cleaning
• Clear versions may create glare with bright bulbs

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

Wallps, Mid Century Globe Glass Bedroom Bedside Wall Sconce Nordic Crown Hallway Wall Light Modernmalist Bent

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10. Art Deco Wall Sconce

Art Deco sconces bring a decorative edge with geometric patterns, brass details, and bold lines. They make a strong design statement while still being functional. I like these in apartments where you want a touch of glam without overwhelming the space.

Pros:

• Adds character and style instantly
• Works well as an accent or focal point
• Pairs nicely with gold or brass decor

Cons:

• Can look too ornate for minimalist spaces
• May cost more than simpler designs

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

Sucelating Alabaster Chandelier with Room Dining Room Bedroom Entryway

Alabaster Brass Wall Sconces for Living

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11. Rustic Farmhouse Wall Sconce

Rustic farmhouse sconces usually feature wood backplates, black iron accents, or mason-jar style shades. They bring warmth and charm into an apartment living room, especially if you’re going for a cozy, natural vibe. I like these in spaces with wood furniture or neutral tones because they tie everything together.

Pros:

• Adds warmth and rustic charm
• Works well with farmhouse or boho decor
• Many affordable plug-in versions available

Cons:

• Can feel out of place in modern apartments
• Some designs use fragile glass jars

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

Post-Modern Crystal Luxury LED Wall Lamp Copper Bedroom Bedside Single Head Sconces Nordic Living Room

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12. Wall Sconce with Reading Light

These sconces combine a standard shade with an extra, flexible reading light underneath. It’s a two-in-one design that works well near a sofa or bed if you want task lighting without a lamp.

I like them because you can have soft ambient light from the shade and direct light for reading at the same time.

Pros:

• Dual function: ambient + task lighting
• Saves space by replacing floor lamps
• Renter-friendly plug-in options available

Cons:

• Bulkier than single-light sconces
• Flexible arm may wear out over time with heavy use

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

Reading Sconce Simple Light Study Room Long Arm Rotating Wall Lamp, Bedroom Bedside Lamp Telesrocker Arm

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13. Mid-Century Modern Wall Sconce

‘Mid-century sconces are popular for their sleek lines, brass finishes, and globe-shaped bulbs. They instantly add style without feeling overdone.

I like using them in apartments where you want a retro touch that still feels modern. They look especially good paired with minimalist furniture.

Pros:

• Stylish and timeless design
• Easy to blend with modern or retro interiors
• Usually compact, making them apartment-friendly

Cons:

• Some designs focus more on style than function
• Brass finishes may show fingerprints easily

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

Modern LED Wall Sconce Light for Bedroom, Living Room & Corridor

– 120cm Warm White Lamp, Stylish Decorative

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14. Wall Sconce with Shelf

These sconces come with a small built-in shelf, which makes them practical in apartments where space is tight. You can use the shelf for a small plant, a phone, or even a candle. I like them near seating areas or as a substitute for a side table in very small living rooms.

Pros:

• Doubles as storage and lighting
• Great for apartments with limited space
• Adds character while being practical

Cons:

• Shelf size is often small and limited
• Can look cluttered if overfilled

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

Wall Sconce with Shelf Maple Leaves Wall Lamp Brass Wall Lights Wall Sconces Wall Lighting Fixtures for Hallway Left

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15. Rotating Head Wall Sconce

A rotating head sconce allows you to move the light in almost any direction. It’s useful for multi-purpose living rooms where you sometimes need direct light for reading and other times prefer softer wall lighting. I find these handy near desks or sofas where flexibility matters most.

Pros:

• Fully adjustable lighting direction
• Works as both task and accent light
• Saves space compared to floor lamps

Cons:

• Moving parts may loosen over time
• Style leans modern, so it may not suit all interiors

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

Rotating Head Wall Sconce Wall Light Single-Headed Double-Headed Modern American All-Copper Wall Sconces Crystal Leaf Lampshade European Corridor Living Room

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16. Wall Sconce with USB Port

These sconces combine lighting with a built-in USB port, which is practical for apartments where outlets are limited.

You can charge your phone while enjoying soft lighting in the living room. I like them near seating areas or beside a sofa, where they double as both light and charging station.

Pros:

• Convenient charging option built-in
• Saves space in small apartments
• Great for living rooms with few outlets

Cons:

• May charge slower than wall adapters
• Limited design styles compared to regular sconces

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

IXWQ Nordic Aisle Wall Sconces Bedside Lamp Ceramic Wall Lamp Single Double Head E14 Lamp Head Simple Living Room Wall Decoration

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17. Cord-Cover Wall Sconce Kit

Cord-cover sconces are regular plug-in wall sconces that come with a matching cover to hide the cord. This gives you a clean, built-in look without needing hardwiring. I like these in apartments where you want style without the visual clutter of hanging cords.

Pros:

• Cleaner look than standard plug-ins
• Renter-friendly installation
• Creates the appearance of hardwired lighting

Cons:

• Cord cover must be aligned carefully
• Limited adjustability once mounted

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

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18. Glass Cone Shade Wall Sconce

Glass cone shades create a focused downward light, making them useful for task lighting or accenting small areas.

I like these near a desk or above a reading chair. The glass shade adds a polished look that blends with both modern and traditional apartments.

Pros:

• Directs light downward for tasks
• Stylish design with glass detailing
• Works well in small corners or reading spots

Cons:

• Glass shade requires frequent cleaning
• Light spread is more focused, not wide

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

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19. Wall Sconce with Motion Sensor

Motion sensor sconces automatically turn on when you walk by, which is convenient for apartments. They’re especially useful in darker corners or near entryways in living rooms. I like them because they save energy and provide hands-free lighting when you enter the room.

Pros:

• Energy-saving automatic function
• Hands-free lighting convenience
• Useful in dark or high-traffic areas

Cons:

• Sensor may trigger unintentionally
• Not ideal if you want lights on continuously

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

Indoor Wall Light with Rectangle Aluminum Wall Sconces Motion Sensor Modern Simplicity Night LED Wall Lamp Fixtures

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20. Candle-Style Wall Sconce

Candle-style sconces bring a traditional and cozy look. Many modern versions use LED candle bulbs, so you get the charm without actual flames.

I like these in apartments that aim for a classic or romantic vibe, especially when paired in twos on either side of the sofa.

Pros:

• Classic, timeless design
• Warm light that feels cozy
• Works well in pairs for balance

Cons:

• More decorative than functional for strong lighting
• Style may not fit modern apartments

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

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21. Wall Sconce with Dimmer Switch

A wall sconce with a built-in dimmer lets you adjust the brightness depending on the mood. I like these because you can go from bright light during the day to a soft glow in the evening without needing multiple lamps. They’re especially handy in small apartments where one fixture has to do it all.

Pros:

• Adjustable brightness for any setting
• Saves space by reducing the need for extra lamps
• Easy to use with plug-in versions

Cons:

• Some dimmers may not work with all bulbs
• Slightly more expensive than standard sconces

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

Wallps, Modern Glass Vanity Wall Sconce Bathroom Mirror Frontp Nordic Brasswall Light Mid Century Linear Globe

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22. Art-Inspired Wall Sconce

Art-inspired sconces often double as both light and decor. They feature sculptural shapes, creative materials, or unique finishes that make them stand out. I like these in apartments where you want lighting that feels like an art piece without hanging extra decor on the wall.

Pros:

• Adds personality and character to a room
• Works as both functional light and wall art
• Great for statement walls

Cons:

• Can be more decorative than practical
• May not blend with minimalist interiors

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

22. Art-Inspired Wall Sconce  HIONJIN Entryway Luminous Decorative Painting Embossed Aisle Hallway End Led Wall

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23. Lantern-Style Wall Sconce

Lantern-style sconces bring a cozy, outdoor-inspired feel indoors. Many designs have clear or frosted glass with a metal frame, making them perfect for apartments with rustic or eclectic decor. I like them for creating a welcoming glow, especially on accent walls.

Pros:

• Creates a warm, inviting atmosphere
• Sturdy design with a classic look
• Works well with rustic or boho interiors

Cons:

• Can look heavy in very small spaces
• Needs regular dusting and cleaning of glass

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

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24. Smart Wall Sconce

Smart sconces connect to apps or voice assistants, so you can adjust brightness, color, or schedule lighting from your phone.

They’re a good fit for modern apartments where convenience is key. I like these because you can set timers or dim lights without getting up, which is especially nice in the evenings.

Pros:

• App and voice-control features
• Can change brightness and sometimes color
• Energy-efficient with scheduling options

Cons:

• More expensive than regular sconces
• Requires Wi-Fi and setup

Suggested Supply: Check price on Amazon.com 🔗

Modern Waterproof IP65 Up Down Wall Lights –

Dimmable Exterior Sconce with Remote Control for Corridor

Comparison Table: Best Apartment Living Room Wall Sconces

#	Wall Sconce Type	Style / Use	Power Source	Best For
1	Plug-In Swing Arm	Adjustable, versatile	Plug-in	Reading, sofas, desks
2	Battery-Operated	Cordless, flexible	Battery / Recharge	Accent lighting, no-outlet areas
3	Modern Minimalist	Clean, simple design	Plug-in / Battery	Modern, Scandinavian apartments
4	Vintage-Style	Antique brass/bronze look	Plug-in	Traditional or eclectic spaces
5	Industrial	Metal, exposed bulbs	Plug-in	Loft or rustic-style apartments
6	Adjustable LED	Energy-efficient, angled light	Plug-in	Task + ambient lighting
7	Double-Light	Two bulbs for wider coverage	Plug-in	Larger living rooms
8	Fabric Shade	Soft, cozy glow	Plug-in	Seating areas, evening lighting
9	Glass Globe	Bright, even light	Plug-in	Modern or mid-century spaces
10	Art Deco	Bold, geometric style	Plug-in	Glam apartments, accent walls
11	Rustic Farmhouse	Wood + iron or mason-jar design	Plug-in	Cozy, rustic, boho apartments
12	With Reading Light	Shade + flexible arm	Plug-in	Reading corners, sofa/bedside
13	Mid-Century Modern	Sleek lines, brass, globes	Plug-in	Retro-modern interiors
14	With Shelf	Light + small shelf	Plug-in	Small apartments, storage + light
15	Rotating Head	Fully directional	Plug-in	Multi-use living rooms
16	With USB Port	Light + phone charging	Plug-in	Apartments with limited outlets
17	Cord-Cover Kit	Plug-in with hidden cord	Plug-in	Clean, built-in look
18	Glass Cone Shade	Downward task lighting	Plug-in	Desks, reading chairs
19	Motion Sensor	Automatic on/off	Battery / Plug-in	Entryways, dark corners
20	Candle-Style	Classic candle look (LED bulbs)	Plug-in	Romantic, traditional apartments
21	With Dimmer Switch	Adjustable brightness	Plug-in	Mood lighting, small spaces
22	Art-Inspired	Sculptural, decorative	Plug-in	Statement walls, artistic interiors
23	Lantern-Style	Metal + glass lantern look	Plug-in	Rustic or eclectic apartments
24	Smart Wall Sconce	App/voice control, scheduling	Plug-in / Smart	Tech-savvy, modern apartments

6 Reasons Why I Wrote This Article

1. Apartments Need Smart Lighting Solutions
   Not every renter has the chance to hardwire new fixtures. I wanted to share wall sconces that work in real apartments without requiring major changes.

2. To Save Space in Small Living Rooms
   Floor and table lamps take up valuable room. Wall sconces are a simple way to free up space while still getting the lighting you need.

3. To Give Readers Renter-Friendly Options
   Most apartments have rules about drilling and wiring. I included plug-in and battery-operated choices so you can still get stylish lighting without breaking the lease.

4. To Cover Different Styles and Budgets
   Lighting should reflect your taste. Whether you like modern, vintage, rustic, or minimalist, I wanted this list to include options that suit different looks and price ranges.

5. To Help With Practical Everyday Living
   Sconces aren’t just about looks they’re about function. Many of these can be used for reading, working, or creating a softer mood in the evenings.

6. To Make the Buying Process Easier
   It can be overwhelming to scroll through endless choices online. My goal was to put together a useful, narrowed-down guide so you can pick with confidence.

Final Summary

Wall sconces are one of the easiest ways to improve lighting in an apartment living room. From plug-in swing arms to smart sconces, there are designs that fit every style, budget, and space. They save floor space, add character, and give you flexibility without needing hardwired installation.

A Final Thought

If you’ve ever struggled with poor apartment lighting, you know how frustrating it can be. The good thing is, the right sconce doesn’t just brighten a room it makes the space feel like home. Take the time to think about your style, your needs, and the layout of your living room. Then, pick a sconce that actually works for you.

Lighting may not seem like the biggest change you can make, but once you put up the right wall sconce, you’ll notice the difference every single day. And if you catch yourself thinking, why didn’t I do this sooner?  well, that means the article did its job.

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• Bedroom Wall Sconces Ideas to Transform Your Space