Wall light fixtures, such as sconces and wall lamps, are often overlooked when lighting purchases are made. Why is this? Some may be hesitant of the installation factor - wall fixtures need to be mounted and may need minor electrical work as well. With floor and table lamps, one need simply plop the light down, plug it in, and voila - let there be light. So yes, there is a little extra work or installation cost (for you non do-it-yourselfers), as opposed to other lighting options. But there are also some major advantages wall lighting has over standard lamps. Floor and table space for one. Everyone wants more room for family photos, trinkets, and even plants on their end tables, and wall lighting is a great way to get this space while still adequately lighting a room. Second, with floor and table lamps come unsightly and often dangerous (especially if you have kids running around) electrical cords. Properly installed wall lights are hard-wired and all wiring is hidden behind your walls giving your room an ultra-clean look. Let's take a look at a few popular wall lighting options, shall we.

Sconces, or wall sconces if you prefer, are a very popular lighting fixture with models designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Wall sconces generally don't jut out too far from a wall, like wall lamps can, and are usually fixed in a single position. They can be uplights or downlights, and some designs can even be mounted in either position. This feature just adds to the sconce's versatility. Sconces work well in almost any room, but are ideal for halls and entryways, and can even work well in dining rooms.

Similar to the sconce, but possessing a personality all its own, is the wall lamp. This wall fixture distinguishes itself by generally having the ability to swivel and swing on a jointed arm. The wall lamp thus juts out farther from the wall than a standard sconce. The swinging arm makes the wall lamp perfect for living rooms and bedrooms, or anywhere one does a lot of reading. The adjustable nature of these fixtures puts you in control of the lighting more so than most any other light fixture you can buy.

Perhaps the quintessential wall light is bathroom lighting. These fixtures can vary from a single light to five or six lights long, making them a no-brainer for pretty much every bathroom. Like the wall sconce, these fixtures can work as uplights or downlights, and some are indeed reversible. These once boring fixtures are now produced in so many striking designs, picking one out can be a difficult task.