From the moment I moved into my New York City studio apartment, I knew that lighting the place would be a challenge. One large room with no overhead light source meant that I was basically working with a blank canvas – and that I had to get creative with my lighting ideas.
I began with table lamps; placing one on my dresser and another on my desk. Then, I positioned a floor lamp in the sliver of space between my couch and my closet. I even included a mini portable lamp in the scheme for extra ambience. I was layering lighting like a pro.
At this point, I thought my apartment’s lighting scheme was complete. However, I quickly realized that I was missing one essential detail: a bedside light. Another floor lamp or a nightstand table lamp could have worked, but would mean sacrificing valuable floor space. Just when I thought I’d have to resort to using my phone’s flashlight to read at night, I found the winner: the Greta Plug-In Sconce from Anthropologie.
No hardwiring, no problem. This plug-in sconce provides convenient wall-mounted light wherever you need it. It features an accordion arm, which can extend and collapse, as well as a fabric-covered cord that matches the design of the sconce itself. The sconce is sold with three different shade colors: cream, gold, or slate.
Since my apartment is a rental, I'm unable to hardwire a standard sconce. This sconce, however, eliminates the need to do any of that. Simply mount it to the wall (a process that I can confirm is very easy), plug it in, and voilà – instant beautiful wall light.
Plus, its wall-mounted design eliminates the need for floor space or a table to rest upon, making it ideal for small bedrooms or designated sleeping corners in studio apartments (i.e. my space).
Aside from the fact that it tastefully illuminates my nighttime reads, there are so many more details that I just love about the Greta Plug-In Sconce. For starters, its accordion design is remarkably convenient. Pull it out, push it in, move it to the left or to the right – wherever you need to cast light, this sconce can move to make that happen. Another detail I love is its fabric cord – a thoughtful touch that makes such a big difference in its overall appearance. Despite being brand new, its look reminds me of a chic vintage find, and it tastefully complements the heritage-inspired aesthetic I'm trying to develop in my space.
Though I'm using this plug-in sconce beside the bed in my small apartment, there are so many other places to mount it around the home. It'll work wonders in a reading corner, in a dining nook, over a kitchen counter, next to a couch, or even as part of a gallery wall.
Shop More Plug-In Sconces
Plug-in sconces are highly convenient for small homes since they don't require any floor or table space. They are a renter's dream too, as you get the look of a wired-in wall light without falling out with your landlord. Simply mount them to the wall, plug them in, and turn them on. Here are a few more options that are equally as practical and chic as Anthropologie's Greta Sconce.
Between the rattan texture and the scalloped rim of its shade, this sconce is a chic, vintage-inspired pick that can add undeniable character to your home. Conveniently, this sconce's arm swings back and forth so you can angle light however you need it.
Believe it or not, this wall sconce is sold on Pottery Barn's children's site, PB Teen. However, I'd happily mount it anywhere around my home, and I'm a full-grown adult. I just love its fabric shade, its scalloped rim, and its brass backing. Charming and très chic.
From internet icon Emma Chamberlain's West Elm collection, this plug-in sconce is a playfully modern choice that can act as art for your walls while lighting up a room. Its red piping detail is a fun touch that adds character to the light itself.
Shop More Lighting from Anthropologie
The Greta Plug-In Sconce isn't the only light feature from Anthropologie that's worthy of a spot in your home. Shop a few more of my favorite design-driven picks below.
This lamp can become the statement piece of any room. Though it's available in a few different prints, this ivy-inspired design is my favorite. Turn it on, and it'll tastefully illuminate your space. Turn it off, and it'll do the same with its chic style.
Although this lamp is very small (it measures just 4.75" tall), it's nonetheless a practical lighting choice for your home because of its portable and rechargeable capabilities. Bring it with you from room to room and watch as its soft glow brightens up your space.
This floor lamp is a personal favorite of mine because I have it in my apartment along with the Greta Plug-In Sconce. I love everything about it, from its height and its illumination to its wavy frame – it's a subtle statement piece that gives my apartment some whimsical flair.
After a few months with the Greta Plug-In Sconce mounted beside my bed, I can say with confidence that it has completely changed how I interact with my space. And honestly, I can’t believe there was a time that I didn’t have it in my apartment. I can confidently say this light deserves a spot in your home, too.
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