Off the Wall

LIKE A PIECE OF JEWELLERY THAT COMPLETES YOUR ENSEMBLE, SCONCE LIGHTS ADD THAT REQUISITE FINISHING TOUCH TO A ROOM

Sconces have come a long way since their beginnings as wallmounted torches in medieval times, just as how chandeliers have evolved from their ancient archetypes into the myriad forms we see today. In the hierarchy of lighting sources, however, sconces tend to be overshadowed by other forms – ceiling fixtures, f loor lamps, table lamps and even task lights. Yet sconces serve both ambient as well as task lighting functions, and are increasingly becoming design statements in their own right. “Wall lighting is more inviting than, and not as harsh as, light from the ceiling,” says Jean Wee, CEO of Marquis Furniture Gallery. In rooms with chandeliers, sconces provide washes of light on the wall, balancing the illumination overhead. “The beauty of sconce lamps is that they give you the freedom to determine where you want to install your light source, and at different heights/levels to complement existing light sources,” says Tiffany Totiensri, marketing and business relations manager at Xtra. The fact that they’re installed on the wall, she adds, reduces clutter, say from having multiple f loor lamps. In the absence of track-, down- or spotlights, sconce lighting can bring attention to wall-hung artworks or specific architectural features, both indoors and out. Sconces may be placed above or below the feature, or f lank it on both sides to achieve a more balanced look. Occasionally, no artwork is necessary: the sconces are features themselves. “Some sconces create a dramatic effect with the clever interplay of shadows,” says Jennifer Soh, Space Furniture’s senior manager, marketing & strategic planning. “Grand pieces like Visionnaire’s Agatha or Siglinde lamps are themselves designer statement pieces and can be used as decor,” adds Marquis’s Wee. So whether you’re looking to introduce more light into a setting, highlight a feature, or simply enjoy the sculptural beauty of a designer fixture, there’s no shortage of options. Over the next few pages, we’ve curated some of the best.

FLOS Orotund Designed by Marc Newson, Orotund is both futuristic and cartoonish with a halolike glow emanating from its LED source. The whimsical form features an injectionmoulded plastic body, which is available in white, grey and olive green options. FOSCARINI Birdie A modernised version of the classic lampshade, Birdie lends itself well to a wide range of settings thanks to its shape and the variety of colours that its diffuser comes in. The bright accents help to add life and energy to a corridor or reading corner. TOM DIXON Base Metallic finishes are all the rage this season, so Tom Dixon’s Base is bang on-trend. The satin-finished brass or copper shade is contrasted with a matte textured black cast iron base. Best for Scandi-modern or urban-industrial design schemes. CATELLANI & SMITH Gemma Harking back to the very origins of sconces as wall torches, Gemma provides a contemplative aura using candleglow enhanced by a gold- or silver-foiled aluminium disc. The medieval look is captivating and adds a sense of history. DIESEL FOSCARINI Duii Mini The endearing quality of the Duii Mini is compounded by the fact that it is named after Donald Duck’s nephew. Its hinged arm and wing screws support a rounded body similar to retro car headlights or a duck’s beak.

SLAMSLAMP AMP Veveli Veli is a family of lighting fixtures that includes a suspension lamp, plus wall or ceiling-mounted versions. The ceiling models can also be used on the walls, and vice versa, giving endless possibilities. The elaborate ruffles are reminiscent of a couture dress; indeed the lamp is entirely made by hand. VISIONNAIRE Agatha Visionnaire’s Agatha provides a dash of patrician elegance and old world glamour with its turned brass and aluminium structure, curved ‘barley twist’ arms, polished gold finish and curved silk lampshade. This elegant sconce also adds dapper charm to a study. RALPH LAUREN HOME RL ‘67 Swing Arm Wall Lamp Industrial chic doesn’t get better than Ralph Lauren’s RL ’67 Swing Arm. Inspired by a vintage machinist lamp, it’s one of the brand’s most iconic and celebrated lighting designs. The metallic shade also helps to direct light downwards. VISIONNAIRE Siglinde Siglinde is surely a conversation starter with its brass and steel horn-shaped based. The polished gold finish and curved lampshade with a dramatic ‘Kraken’ print fabric will fit into any interiors with a contemporary classic style. Place high for added impact. RALPH LAUREN HOME Allen Sconce Ralph Lauren’s Allen Sconce is perfect for a dose of Great Gatsby glamour and panache. Its brass base and baseplate supports a diffuser composed of glass rods, lending an Art Deco feel. A version in polished nickel conjures up an air of subtle sophistication and elegance.

BAKER Trocadero Sconce With its brass hardware, faceted crystal candelabra and symmetrical configuration, Baker’s Trocadero Sconce evokes classical elegance with a modern spin.

Tau Made of cast aluminium, Tau looks like a funnel, but designer Rodolfo Dordoni was in fact inspired by the letter ‘T’ (known as ‘tau’ in Greek). Light pours out from both its top and bottom, amplified by the gilded interior surface.