I love personalizing my home with small, meaningful details. These touches don’t appear all at once but develop over time—layer by layer—until each piece contributes to the overall look and feel that makes our home feel like ours.
I’ve had this brass wall sconce for years. I used it in our previous home as well, both times originally installed without hardwiring. Recently, while an electrician was working in the house, we took the chance to have the sconce hardwired. That simple change makes a big difference: instead of relying on a rechargeable bulb for convenience, I can now flip a dedicated switch to light this prominent corner of the living room instantly.
What really makes this sconce feel personal is the lampshade. Although the sconce style is popular and widely available, swapping in a unique shade instantly makes it feel like mine. I found a handmade patterned oval shade on Etsy that suits the small spot perfectly. Its shape and fabric palette bring together the colors in our room and add a delightful, unexpected detail.
I’ve always enjoyed changing lamps, shades, and finials because they’re an easy way to refresh a space. A shade this size is simple to swap out and store—if I find another I love later, I can tuck the current one away in a drawer or cabinet until I want it again. That flexibility makes it easy to update the look of a corner without a major investment.
As I finish up styling the bench area for fall, this shade is a great starting point. It adds a touch of charm and helps guide the colors and textures I’ll layer into the vignette. Small details like this are often the anchors that give a space personality and cohesion.
More lampshades from the same shop and other selections below offer plenty of options to suit different styles and spaces.
More Lampshades (click each thumbnail below for details):
What’s one way you’ve added your own unique personality to your home lately?
My Pleated Patterned Lampshades + Sources
Inspiration for Rooms with Pleated Lampshades
Light Up a Dark Corner with a Wall Sconce (No Wiring Necessary!)
Adding Character with Wall Sconces
Beautiful and Affordable Lighting Sources
Before and After: New Entryway Lantern Light Fixture
How to Add Cottage Character to Your Home Over Time
See more posts on lighting in the same collection on this site.