How to add more light to my long, wide, tall living room? Sconces? Alas, after (1) reading all your thoughts and ideas when I wrote my first story about this new project here at the ranch… and after (2) getting these extremely useful mockups from reader Chase… and after (3) experimenting by digging out some really narrow boudoir lamps from the attic, and plugging them in on the mantle to see how the light would shine….
…DH and I have decided that whether you place sconces on the setback wall (first photo), or on the face of the mantel wall itself (above)… sconces will look *not quite right*… kind of crowded… and most importantly, won’t throw enough light anyway. I hope you can follow this. The triangulation of decision-making is torturous, as forewarned. Truly, all the comments that readers provided were really helpful in terms of raising even more options for me to consider — thank you!
We are setting aside the sconce option for now and instead — based on suggestions from reader comments — we are going to explore pinlight recessed lights in front of the mantel. Over by the big window (shown back in story #1), we’re going to try side tables with table lamps for now. (I’ll come back to this part of the project later.) Continue on for more of Chase’s mockups, along with some of the sconces that I had been considering — it’s still fun to show them.
I also really like the idea of these classic Library Sconces from Visual Comfort. Actually, I think these look pretty nice in the mockups — the tall, narrow works. On the setback wall (very first photo in this story), though, they look kinda scrunched in — we need just a few more inches to the right to get the proportions right… moreover, there, they would cast a shadow — I could see this when I placed tall narrow boudoir lamps up there to get the effect of how the light would shine. On the mantel wall, they look okay, but fundamentally, the concern is that they would not throw enough light anyway.
A sconce with two candle bulbs to get more light? Good idea *theoretically* but Ack! No, in *reality*! We have these House of Troy sconces in our basement man cave, in the dark bronze finish. We love them there — and there’s that benefit that there are two candle bulbs. But they are way too too here on the mantel wall. Ack!
Stay tuned. Research on pinlight can lights is next. Lord help me, I’m pooped on this project already.
Andi says
Pam,
I love your living room! Have you thought of (and do you have room for) pole lamps? I have a dark living room as well and we put two vintage 1940s fabulous pole lights in there (re-wired for safety), and the difference is amazing. They have the giant light bulbs (“mogul”) plus auxiliary “candle” type lights around that, which can be turned on separately or together. The light is softened by a white milk glass “cone” fitted over the bulb, and filtered by original cream-colored silk shades. They work beautifully to brighten up the room and make reading possible in the chairs they are behind. Plus, I love them. We were lucky to get them from a neighbor’s estate for a song.
Pole lamps come in so many styles that I can’t imagine something wouldn’t be perfect for your space.
pam kueber says
Hi Andi, Yes! I am thinking of just this sort of lights — or a pair for over by the big window. Just the kind you are describing!
Jay says
Wow! i thought Mogul base bulbs were finally extinct. Those bulbs get very hot! Be careful!
TappanTrailerTami says
Hi Jay,
Mogul base bulbs are NOT extinct…..yet. I was super worried (having 4 mogul base bulb floor lamps in the house) that they would be banned as part of the incandescent light bulb ban. I thought I was going to have to stock up on 30 years worth of light bulbs!
After doing some research though, most mogul base bulbs are a 3 way bulb (100/200/300 watt), and 3 way incandescent bulbs are considered to be a “specialty” bulb and are therefore exempt from the ban. I just bought 3 more 3 way Mogul bulbs at Lowe’s the other day.
The one thing I would recommend to everyone using antique light fixtures or lamps: it is not good enough to *just* rewire your lamps/fixtures. Make absolutely sure you also replace (or have replaced) the cardboard insulator sleeves in the sockets. These sleeves after 40+ years become extra dry/crisp/brittle and are a fire hazard, probably even more so if you are using high wattage bulbs such as Mogul bulbs.
pam kueber says
Thanks, T3, for the tips. Readers: Consult with a licensed professional about how to rewire and refurbish your vintage lighting!
TappanTrailerTami says
Hi Pam – y/w on the safety tip. Since it appears you might be considering a pair of 6 way pole floor lamps down at the window end (LOVE!), I found this Stiffel lamp on Overstock.com, for a really great price at $110. It also has a remote dimmer control (you won’t get that with vintage lamps). It has really great reviews also. It is also a very classic style without being over-done, I think very much in keeping with your house style and decor.
It is inexpensive enough that if you aren’t crazy about the shade, you can get better silk shades and still not go to the poor farm. I think I paid $125 each for the shades I just bought for my pair of vintage Rembrandt floor lamps.
Sometimes the problem with vintage is A) you have to have it rewired, and B) you probably have to do a new shade, and C) if you have to have a matching pair – you can kiss $400 – $800 goodbye just buying the lamps – no shades or rewiring done yet, and then there is the interminable wait to find the right pair at the right price!
These new Stiffel lamps could accomplish the same goal for a lot less than vintage if you keep the existing shades, or – maybe you’d be in for about $450 total with new silk shades if you buy two, which would be at the lower end of rehabbing vintage lamps. No rewiring needed also, just plug in and enjoy.
Take a look:
http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Stiffel-6-Way-59-inch-Brass-Floor-Lamp-with-Silk-Shade/2041013/product.html
More reviews on this lamp (or really similar) here:
http://www.buzzillions.com/reviews/stiffel-classic-antique-brass-six-way-floor-lamp-reviews
TappanTrailerTami says
Pam – another note for you re: vintage 6 way floor lamps. Since they are such a common design of the 40’s you can get by a lot less expensively if they don’t exactly match each other.
But since your Baker loveseats exactly match, then I think (just my opinion), that if you go to floor lamps on each side of the window, they too should exactly match each other. In the realm of vintage matching pairs of 6 way floor lamps, they are VERY hard to come by….most of the matching pairs out there in vintage land will be torchiere style like I posted in the original thread on your fireplace – no fabric shade, and no extra 3 candle lights.
I’m very fortunate that my mom gave me her pair of 6 way Rembrandts …and in the last 20 years I can count one one hand how many times I’ve come across matching pairs of 6 way floor lamps (vs. torchieres….much more common in pairs, still spendy though!), and I think that is why they command such a HUGE price when they are found.
pam kueber says
I like them — and at that price, wow. However: Out of stock. I was seriously going to buy two just to get this over with. Now, I’ll wait to see if they get restocked at that price… And meanwhile, start keeping my eyes open for vintage — I’m pretty lucky that way, once I start looking, I see…
TappanTrailerTami says
Oh, crap! I didn’t even notice the out of stock message, I am sorry! I looked around and the price was regularly about $360-$400 for those. I’ll keep trying to locate for you also!
pam kueber says
Not to worry — I’ll be watching for vintage, and I bet I find it!
TappanTrailerTami says
Here’s a reasonably priced pair Pam – with light up alabaster bases! Kansas City, but probably could have them shipped 🙂
http://kansascity.craigslist.org/atq/2879055502.html
Elaine says
Hey! I have one of those from my grandmother’s house. I thought they were ’30s. Mine has been rewired and repainted, but the silk shade has deteriorated badly.
pam kueber says
Wow, you’re working hard for me, T3! Thank you. Still, I think I’ll look locally. I like to inspect — well, and hunt, too, of course!
TappanTrailerTami says
Hi Pam! Just came across these in my eBay travels, and I’m breaking my own rule – there is a pair from the seller, but on separate auctions. I don’t think they will go terribly high at all….they are starting at $9.99 each.
I kind of think these would be a good solution on the mantle, without resorting to “canned” ceiling lights, or having to wire in sconces. These would spot light your mirror really nicely without crowding it – they are relatively small and pretty simple, they are vintage (yay!), and I think I like the fact that they are orbs which would echo the mirror being round. They need some rehab (repaint/rewire), but I’m sure you’re up to the task.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/vtg-Orb-EYEBALL-accent-Lamp-eames-era-space-age-mod-ball-goldtone-/160764418669?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item256e4e5a6d
TappanTrailerTami says
Maybe Chase would do another photo shop mock up using these lamps on the mantle so you could so how they would look 🙂
TappanTrailerTami says
More….if you decide to go back to thinking sconces on either side of your mirror – these are very nice, already rewired, very well priced, and custard shades give off the most lovely warm light!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/PAIR-1930-SCONCES-CUSTARD-SHADES-NICE-/380345306422?pt=Architectural_Garden&hash=item588e58cd36
Just another Pam says
Maybe something like a teak swing arm lamp could work if you find you don’t care for recessed lighting? Maybe over by the window? They would go well with the chairs. Gosh golly gee ;o), this is hard……
I found the one’s here quickly as I follow Doug and his wife follows you….we’ve chatted about how wonderful you and your site are waiting for an estate sale to open where she got all the stuff I wanted as I wasn’t allowed anything that big….pout sulk….
http://20rueedward.blogspot.com/2011/02/teak-swing-arm-wall-lamps.html
pam kueber says
Hi Just Another, Yes, I’ve thought of that and Ron even has one in his store. But… I don’t think that’s quite right. Thanks for the idea, though!
jen says
i LOVE that second mock up! i think it’s period/house appropriate and helps make statement with your fireplace.
i am firmly pro-modern amenity in my retro renovations (i admit to recessed lighting in my laundry room), but i think you might sacrificing some charm.
pam kueber says
ack, now I am second guessing! I know, the mockups look pretty good!
lara jane says
I agree! The second mock-up is perfect! The lights are dainty and the milk glass is sweet!
They’d look pretty fab flanking the window, too!
bex says
Personally, I am not a fan of recessed lighting in the living room. I always feel like there’s a spotlight on me and slightly blinded. I prefer lamps and wall sconces which to me feel “warmer”. Although, recessed lighting above the mantle – I could work with that!
pam kueber says
yes, it would be just above the mantle. this is soooo hard
Marta says
I have two recessed 8inch can lights above my fireplace wall (10ft wide stacked granite floor to ceiling with full width 16inch raised hearth). They are what I believe is called ‘eyebrow’ lights, and you can aim them to shine where you want. They’re on a dimmer, and are original to the house (1967).
I think they are at best unattractive, and at worst downright ugly, but they give out nice pools of light which can be aimed outward at a seating arrangement, or inward towards the fireplace. To be honest, I doubt many people actually notice the cans, and anyway, new technology allows you to do the same thing with much smaller, less obtrusive lights that would not take away from the lovely arrangement of your fireplace wall.
Gracie manasco says
Here are some early American mid century sconces in my area if you are interested… http://bham.craigslist.org/mat/2886974421.html
I’m also looking for sconces but for my bathroom… I’ll let you know if I find anything good down here in the South!
pam kueber says
Those are nice, thank you!
Marion Powell says
I have recessed light over my fireplace. Thay really light up the mantle and throw a good amount of light into the room even though they are pointed towards the wall. Your mirror will reflect back light also.
My house is much newer than most on this blog so I can’t comment on the appropriateness of these light in your setting. But I will say I light the idea better than sconces on the back wall. And on the mantle wall that tale away from your great mirror.
Btw, I love this type post where different choices are examined and even shown (thanks, Chase).
Elaine says
That’s what I have, too, from 1964 in my dark beamed ceiling family room. The two above the mantel are like eyeballs with the eyelids and you can rotate them to go more to the wall or more to the floor, or to the sides.
Queen of Fifty Cents says
This is probably why a former owner put track lights in our house. Most likely not a choice I would have made, but something I can live with. We changed out the big gold lights they had put in for small black ones. At least I can see to cook after dark!
Just another Pam says
Queen, this is for you….
“The sophisticated track lighting we know today was originally inspired by a simple spring-loaded pole lamp anchored between the ceiling and floor which was popular in the 1950s. Recognizing the potential of this design in 1957, Lightolier introduced a more sophisticated floor-to-ceiling lamp called Lytespan. Seeing a need for more effective overhead lighting Lightolier adapted Lytespan’s innovative design for ceiling applications in 1961.”
Some retro didn’t go away, it evolved ;o)
Just another Pam says
Vintage Lytespan….ubber cool!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/38484818@N08/4779112650/
pam kueber says
YOWZA!
pam kueber says
Wow, great to know. Where is this tidbit of history from? Source?
Just another Pam says
Whoooops, sorry! I’d found different references but Lightolier gets the credit for that reference and rightly so.
http://www.lightolier.com/products/track_alt.jsp
Marta says
It sounds odd, I know, but have you considered warm white LED rope lights? You can run them along the beam/ceiling seam and hide them with a suitably sized piece of molding placed beneath, and stained/painted to match. It will give you the look of tray-ceiling recessed lighting, washing the ceiling with invisible source light which greatly increases the room’s ambient light.
I first saw a tray ceiling with recessed lighting as a teen, in the home of a boyfriend whose parents had built the house in the early 60’s. The effect was lovely, and I’m sure it was achieved by a complicated system of recessed cans, as rope lighting was not even a glimmer in an electrician’s mind then.
Although still on the expensive side, LED’s cost essentially nothing to run, can be put on a dimmer so you can adjust the light according to mood or need, and can be linked together for a combined run much longer than you would need. The heat gain is essentially nil, unlike most recessed lighting, with the power draw so small you needn’t be concerned about over-taxing your electrical circuits.
If your ceiling has a series of squares, you can run the ropes inside, and connect each square via the easily disguised white wires. You could even split the system so that the dining and living halves of the room are on separate dimmers.
If you want to get an idea of the effect, use painter’s tape to stick some white Christmas lights in the approximate spot, and run some wide light painter’s tape under the bottom so you get the effect of the rope being hidden. A major benifit of LED ropes is that they’re as DIY friendly as it gets from an electrical standpoint. I did find an example of something similar in a picture here: http://www.calfinder.com/library/remodeling/remodeling-ceilings/ceiling-types/vaulted-ceilings/tray-ceiling.
Sarah V says
sigh…. love the Barcelona chairs……
pam kueber says
Thank you — and there’s a good story. I got the pair for $180 at an employee auction held by a company I was working for to raise money for the Salvation Army. They had been in someone’s office… but in storage unused for a while. They are not Herman Miller but for $90 each, I am not complaining!
Allen says
Please forgive me for being picky but Herman Miller never made the Barcelona Chair. Drexel originally produced it with Knoll acquiring the rights for the chair and the name “Barcelona” in about 1965. Knoll continues to manufacture the licensed version today. Just wanted the record set straight. Thanks!
pam kueber says
Oopsy! My bad. Props to: KNOLL! Thank you, Allen!
Jay says
Good Luck Pam! The starburst mirror looks nice and is a contemporary contrast to the traditional dentil molding at the ceiling – dramatic and uncluttered. I think you made a great decision with the pin lights.