Choosing clear, ribbed or coloured glass shades
The glass shade sets the character of the light. Customers often ask whether clear glass will feel too bright, or seeing the bulb will spoil the effect. For us, a good decorative bulb is part of the appeal. Clear glass shows off the whole design and gives a crisp, open light.
If you would prefer a softer view of the bulb, choose textured glass. We particularly love ribbed glass, which adds detail and breaks up the light source. See the full range of our ribbed glass wall lights. You can get a similar effect from prismatic glass wall lights, with a more faceted, sparkling look. Coloured glass wall lights, such as smoked or teal shades, bring colour and a moodier glow. Whichever glass you choose, the finished effect also depends on the bulb.
Choosing the arm, size and finish
Most of our glass wall lights come with small or medium shades, and several with a large one. Each is offered on a choice of arms. A small elbow keeps the shade close to the wall, which helps in a narrow hallway or beside a door. A swan neck or long swan neck brings the shade further forward and gives the fitting a more graceful line, while a double arm design makes more of a statement. Overall height, shade diameter and projection from the wall all matter. A larger wall doesn’t necessarily need a larger fitting; where projection is limited, several smaller lights may work better.
Polished brass, antique brass, nickel and bronze are offered across the Cranbrook range. Consider how the finish will sit with the metals and wider décor already in your room.
Glass wall lights for living rooms and bedrooms
In a living room, glass wall lights work beautifully in pairs. Either side of a fireplace or a mirror, they bring a pleasing sense of balance. Make sure to check the fitting’s height against any nearby shelving or artwork and allow for how far the arm projects. For more ideas for this setting, explore our living room wall lights.
Beside a bed, think about where your head will be when you are reading. A smaller shade on a swan neck will often put the light just where you need it while freeing up the bedside table. Most Cranbrook designs are also offered with a switch on the fitting, so you can turn the light on and off without getting up. For designs that work well in this setting, see bedside wall lights.
Hand-blown glass, made in the UK
Our Cranbrook glass wall lights, in many ways, form the backbone of the collection. Their shades are hand-blown in the UK, and the fittings are made here too, using solid brass components with a choice of finishes.
We’ve spent years designing and refining the combinations you see on the website, looking at the proportions of each shade and how it sits on its arm. You can customise them to your own needs using the options available on the product pages.
Explore our Cranbrook Collection wall lights, or call us if you would like help comparing designs. Sometimes a conversation about dimensions or finishes is all it takes to feel confident in your choice.
Questions about glass wall lights
Which bulbs suit clear glass wall lights?
With clear glass the bulb is on show, so choose one you are happy to see. We recommend a warm white LED with a decorative shape. If you want to dim your lights, check that the fitting, bulb and dimmer switch are all compatible. Bulbs are sold separately.
How should I clean a glass shade?
Switch the light off and let the bulb cool first. Wipe the shade with a soft cloth, slightly damp if needed, and avoid abrasive cleaners. Ribbed and prismatic glass can collect dust in the grooves, and clear glass shows marks more readily, so think about how easily you can reach the shade.
Can I use glass wall lights in a bathroom?
Only if the fitting is rated for the position you have in mind. Glass alone does not make a light suitable. Check the IP rating on the individual product, confirm the zone with your electrician, and browse our bathroom wall lights for designs made for that room.
Can I buy a replacement glass shade?
Replacement shades may be available for some of our designs. Please call us with the details of your existing light and we will check.
Are all your glass wall lights made in the UK?
Our Cranbrook glass wall lights have UK hand-blown shades and UK-made fittings using brass components. However, we also stock lights from selected other makers so, outside the Cranbrook Collection, check the individual product information or ask us about the origin of a particular design.
