Black Double Sconces in Our Basement Bathroom (Sources + Design Tips)
When I shared our basement bathroom reveal, the black double sconces above the mirror quickly became the most asked-about detail. I’m sharing where we found them and a few tips for using black bathroom lighting, especially in spaces with no natural light.
Ever since I shared our modern vintage bathroom reveal, I’ve received so many messages asking about one specific detail—the black double sconces above the mirror.
Lighting can easily become an afterthought in a renovation. In this space, it was far from that. Because the bathroom is located in the basement with no windows, I knew we needed lighting that was both beautiful and practical. The black double sconces ended up being one of my favourite design decisions in the entire room.
Today, I’m sharing where we found them, why I chose this style, and a few tips if you’re considering black bathroom sconces for your own home.
Why We Chose Black Double Sconces
When designing the guest bathroom in this home, I wanted it to feel modern and a little playful, yet layered and timeless. Think clean lines mixed with a touch of vintage character.
The double sconces felt like the perfect fit.
Instead of installing a single overhead vanity light, we centered a double sconce above each of the two sinks, mounted over the oversized mirror. That gave us four light sources across the width of the vanity, which makes a noticeable difference in a windowless space. The light feels soft and even, rather than harsh or shadowy.
Aesthetically, I love how the black finish grounds the space. Against the lighter walls and tile, the contrast adds depth and dimension without overwhelming the room. I also made sure the sconces matched the faucets and hardware so everything feels cohesive and thoughtfully layered.
The milk glass shades remind me of vintage globe lamp posts, which ties in beautifully with the modern vintage direction we were going for.
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Where We Found Our Black Double Sconces
I was drawn to these bathroom fixtures for a few reasons:
- A clean matte black finish
- Milk glass shades for soft, diffused light
- A simple silhouette that works in both modern and traditional spaces (transitional)
- The extended double arm design for added impact
You can also find similar styles that capture the same look: matte black metal, globe or milk glass shades, and a balanced arm span that suits the width of your mirror.
If you love this style and are sourcing for your own bathroom, these black double sconces offer a comparable look at different price points:
Why Black Sconces Work So Well in a Bathroom
If you’re unsure about finishes, here’s why black can be a great choice for a bathroom:
1. They Add Contrast Without Feeling Too Trendy
Black is classic. It pairs beautifully with warm woods, brass accents, marble, porcelain, and even more modern finishes. It feels intentional, but not fussy.
2. They Frame the Mirror Beautifully
Even though ours are mounted above the mirror, the double arms visually stretch across it, almost acting like a frame. It draws your eye upward and makes the vanity area feel complete.
3. They Provide Better Light in Windowless Spaces
With no natural light to rely on, layered lighting was key. Using two double sconces gave us more even illumination across the vanity, which is especially important for everyday tasks.
If you’re renovating a basement bathroom or powder room, don’t underestimate how much lighting affects how the whole space feels. If possible, add pot lights or flushmount fixtures to the ceiling as well.
Wall and Trim Colour: Benjamin Moore Simply White // Sconce // Faucet // Cabinet Pull // Cabinet Knob // Heathered Towel // Gingham Rug
A Few Design Tips if You’re Considering Black Double Sconces
If you’re planning to add something similar, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Think About Scale
Make sure the width of your sconces feels proportional to your mirror, vanity, and sink(s). Too small and they disappear; too large and they overwhelm the space.
Typically, each sconce should be slightly wider than the sink it’s above, with a few inches of breathing room between the fixture and the outer edge of the mirror.
Also, check the installation height: the sconce should stick out enough to clear the mirror if it overhangs slightly, or the junction box should be high enough (or the mirror hung a little lower) so the lights sit comfortably above it. In our bathroom, the sconces just kiss the top of the mirror.
Consider Bulb Warmth
We opted for soft white bulbs to keep the light flattering and inviting. In a bathroom especially, overly cool lighting can feel clinical.
Mix Finishes Thoughtfully
Black works nicely alongside other materials. Consider pairing it with white or light-coloured tile, a wood vanity, and a few metallic accents like brass or gold to add warmth, texture, and a touch of glow.
One of the perks of matte black is how easy it is to coordinate. Faucets, hardware, mirrors, and more are widely available in the same finish, so you can create a cohesive, layered look without worrying about mismatched pieces the way you might with brass or other metals
Matte Finishes are Forgiving
If you’re worried about fingerprints, water spots, or corrosion, matte black is a smart choice. Unlike polished or plated metals, matte finishes tend to hide marks and resist tarnishing, making them especially practical for bathroom lighting.
Would I Choose Them Again?
Absolutely! They add character without being overly ornate. They feel timeless rather than trendy. And in a basement bathroom where lighting truly matters, they perform just as beautifully as they look.
Be sure to check out our basement bathroom reveal if you missed anything along the way. Also, if you’re considering other finishes, check out these chrome sconces and brass sconce options.
And, if you’re currently planning a bathroom renovation or simply updating your lighting, I hope this helps you feel more confident in choosing something a little bold. Sometimes it’s those darker, grounding details that make a room feel finished.
If you have any other questions about this bathroom, leave them in the comments. I love hearing what you’re working on!
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