Make your home cozier with affordable non-electric wall lights and battery-operated candles.
I love quick, inexpensive updates that bring warmth and character to a room. In an earlier fireplace reveal I promised to share more about the sconces I added, and here are the details. This simple project made a big difference in how cozy our home feels.
I had been hunting for simple sconces for a long time because I wanted to add more personality to our rooms. I finally found a style I love and installed them in several spots around the house.
In many of the older homes we’ve owned there were small wall lights tucked into unexpected corners, and I always notice those charming details in my favorite inspiration photos. These new candleholders are made of iron (or another durable metal) and are extremely easy to install — just a single nail or screw is all they need.
For safety and ease, we use battery-operated taper candles and secure them with a bit of museum putty. Hanging a sconce takes less than ten minutes, and the instant result is a softer, more inviting atmosphere.
The battery-operated taper candles we use include a remote and a timer, so it’s effortless to switch them on in the evening and enjoy a gentle glow—now a nightly habit in our home.
I installed four of these candle sconces throughout the house. One of the black sconces went in the hallway and instantly added another layer of lighting. The black accents — hardware, barn lights, and the new sconce — now tie the space together nicely.
A few months ago we also added gold battery-operated picture lights above our hallway cabinet and refreshed the cabinet with peel-and-stick wallpaper. Small lighting updates like these create a layered, warm ambiance without major work.
I’m officially hooked on faux wall lights and candle sconces — they’re an easy way to bring charm and warmth into a home.
One sconce sits to the left of our dining room entrance, in a cozy corner of the living room. It’s one of those small touches I enjoy seeing every day.
So there you have it: attractive, affordable wall lighting without the need for an electrician. A simple update that delivers big cozy results.
Non-electric wall sconces to get a similar look
Scroll the gallery above to shop curated options for non-electric wall sconces and battery-operated candles.
Battery-operated candles I’ve ordered recently:
I’ve tried several types: tealights, taper candles, and ivory flameless candles with flickering wicks. These provide a realistic glow and come with remote and timer features that make them convenient for daily use.
If you try this lighting idea in your home, I’d love to see! Tag me in a story on Instagram at @theinspiredroom or share a photo in our Facebook community.
Related tip: If you want the look of wall sconces but don’t have wiring, rechargeable bulbs are a clever solution for sconces and lamps—no visible cords and flexible placement.
If you prefer sparkle without adding wall lights, copper string lights with a remote are a lovely option—the slow fade setting creates a cozy mood.
More on creating a cozy home:
How to add character with lighting, favorite affordable lighting finds, and simple ways to bring hygge into your home are great resources when planning updates.
My latest book — Dwelling Well: A Monthly Journal to Nourish Your Home, Body, and Soul — releases tomorrow
I’m excited to share this journal. If you’ve ordered a copy, consider joining us for A Year of Dwelling Well. The journal is undated, so you can begin anytime and create a meaningful daily practice.
I’ve started using the journal already and look forward to the small, steady changes it will bring to our routines and how we care for our home and wellbeing.
How to use the Dwelling Well journal
I’ve shared a short video walkthrough on Instagram showing how my family and I plan to use the journal. Check the “Journal” highlight on my Instagram profile for a peek and simple tips for getting started.