A Guide to Choosing Wall Lights

Lighting can have a magical effect on your home, transforming the atmosphere with the flick of a switch. One of the best ways to add character and functionality to your space is by adding wall lights!

We've created this handy guide to help you brighten up your home...

How to Install Wall Lights
Where to Hang Wall Lights
How to Style Wall Lights
How to Choose Lightbulbs

How to Install Wall Lights

All of our wall lights are crafted by From The Anvil, and each piece is wired by hand in Mid-Wales. These wall lights are mains-powered, meaning that they're hardwired into your wall for a clean, cable-free look.

If you're simply replacing existing wall lights, it's a straightforward job you can tackle with just a few basic tools - or, if you prefer, call in an electrician for some expert help.

Because these wall lights are connected to mains power, they're controlled via electrical switches in the wall. This is a great opportunity to create cohesion by matching your switches to your wall lights. For example, From The Anvil's Nickel wall lights pair well with Satin Stainless Steel switches, both offering a rich depth of reflection. Alternatively, choose components that contrast one another, such as Matt Black switches and Hammered Brass lighting for a chic edge. Explore the full collection of electrical switches, sockets, and more here.

From The Anvil's Smooth Brass Flora wall light in a pink and white home interior.

Above: From The Anvil's Smooth Brass Flora wall light in Slate.

Where to Hang Wall Lights

Wall lights make excellent accent lighting, serving as an important component in layered lighting - this involves combining multiple different types of lighting to create the perfect mood (e.g. wall lights, ceiling pendants, and task lighting).

Wall lights are an ideal space-saver in narrow areas like hallways. Unlike table or floor lamps, they don't hog precious surface space, keeping your area neat, uncluttered, and well-lit.

Living rooms are another prime spot for hanging wall lights. Often, wall lights will be placed on either side of a mantle piece or feature wall, adding symmetry and highlighting the focal point of the room. In bedrooms, this same pattern can be replicated by hanging a wall light on either side of the bed, where they'll offer both style and function.

Above: From The Anvil's Aged Brass Flora wall light hung on a panelled, bedroom wall.

How to Style Wall Lights

When fitted thoughtfully, wall lights can be the crown jewel of any room. Draw attention to your wall lights by positioning them in line with panelling or a Daido rail to frame them and really make your lighting pop!

Wall lights are also a clever way to add function to those tricky, often overlooked spaces. Have a narrow spot between two windows or a blank wall by a door? Pop a wall light there and watch your space truly come to life.

When picking out your wall lights, consider the overall aesthetic of your interior. For example, From The Anvil's Flora wall lights will blend seamlessly into luxury and contemporary interiors. If selected in Smooth Copper, these shades will bathe the room with a warm, inviting glow, whereas a Smooth Nickel option offers a cooler, more modern feel.

From The Anvil's Smooth Copper Flora wall light in Tump hung on a kitchen wall between two windows

Above: From The Anvil's Smooth Copper Flora wall light in Tump.

For an industrial-chic or more traditional look, the Brindley wall lights are the obvious choice. With their elegant curves and timeless design, their beauty is further emphasised when coordinated with matching hardware. Try pairing Smooth Brass Brindley lights with Polished or Aged Brass cabinet hardware for a true sense of harmony.

From The Anvil's Hammered Copper Brindley wall light in Elan Black hung on a kitchen wall between two windows.

Above: From The Anvil's Hammered Copper Brindley wall light in Elan Black.

Alternatively, try colour drenching; choose wall lights in the same colour as your wall paint. This creates a luxe, seamless look, particularly in rooms with darker walls and dramatic décor. Thanks to our bespoke service, you can have custom-made wall lights in the exact colour you choose. Visit our bespoke page to learn more.

Dark green wall light on a dark green wall (colour drenched)

Above: From The Anvil's Smooth Brass Brindley wall light in Dingle as an example of colour-drenching.

How to Choose Lightbulbs

Selecting the right lightbulb is key to making your wall lights shine (literally!). We keep it simple by offering two great bulbs that work with any of our wall lights.

Our LED Light Bulb is round and versatile, blending effortlessly into any interior. With a 2200K colour temperature, it delivers a bright yet cosy glow that works well for ambient lighting.

If you're after something a bit different, our Vintage LED Edison Light Bulb is slim and conical, creating a modern, minimalist vibe. With a slightly cooler 2700K colour temperature, it offers a crisp, clean light which is ideal for contemporary spaces.