In our opinion, wall sconces are one of the most underused elements in home decor. It’s always seemed like lighting plans have typically included built in ceiling lights, beautiful chandeliers, and plenty of floor and table lamps, but not a sconce to be found. Recently, however, there’s been an increasing interest in and trend toward replacing or supplementing more popular lighting elements with wall sconces–and to our delight, it’s taking place in every room of the house.

Below, a roundup of the many gorgeous, practical ways to use wall sconces, and a few of our favorite lighting picks from our inventory to help you get the look.

We love how the wrought-iron sconces add a dose of contrast to white subway tile walls in this stunning bathroom. (And a little added lighting around the vanity is always a good thing for your morning makeup routine.)

Sconces are also great space savers. No room for a table lamp on the nightstand (or no room for a nightstand?) Use a sconce as a reading light in the bedroom instead. The look works well for both modern and traditional spaces, as seen below.

And how about this perfectly placed task lighting in the kitchen?

Or, kick the look up a notch with an entire row of wall lighting to illuminate kitchen workspaces.

Here, they brighten up a bookcase.

Sconces can also pull double duty as wall art. Proof: This strategically placed sconce blends in amongst a gallery wall, while also providing great light on a staircase.

Love the look as much as we do? Why not give it a try at home with one of these pretty picks now available through The Local Vault (click image for more product details or to purchase).