As a long-term tenant who is looking for an apartment again, I’m a huge proponent of a design that is renter-friendly, flexible, and no fuss. Hardwired lighting for renters is not a bad idea (my EHD comrades can attest to this), but I am currently not in the position to invest. My husband and I are planning to move into a bigger apartment soon, so I don’t think it would be a wise investment to buy and install new hardwired lights in my current place. It’s a choice I made because of my fear of spending a lot of money on things that will only last a short time. This is something we can discuss with a therapist or another day. Although I enjoy customizing my house, I’m not very committed when it comes time to lighting. At this point in my life, I’m okay with plug-in lighting for creating style and ambiance. Anyone else with me? Today is all about nonhardwired lighting, and where you can buy it.

Hardwired lighting has many benefits. Hardwired lighting makes your home appear custom and deliberate. As design enthusiasts, we love our homes to be as beautiful as possible. It’s not always the best option, especially if it isn’t feasible or budget-friendly. There are many other options. Also, I like the casual look of a swagged cable and don’t find it offensive (to each his own-I understand it’s not for everybody). There are also some benefits to using non-hardwired lights:

  1. The location of the junction box where hardwired lighting is wired, is not up to you unless you’re renovating.
  2. A hardwired light can be tailored to a specific space. Non-hardwired lights are more flexible and can be easily moved from one room to another. This is particularly helpful for renters who may move in the future.
  3. Plug-ins are more cost-effective than hiring an electrician.

Plug-in lighting is just as stylish and convenient as their hardwired counterparts. You don’t need to sacrifice style in order to get high-quality lighting. There are many companies who make non-hardwired lighting. You can, for example…

In Arlyn’s bedroom she flanked the headboard with two beautiful plug in sconces to provide stylish lighting for bedside. The light that comes from floor and table lamps is only so bright. Hanging sconces are a great solution to this problem. Arlyn, who is a tenant, didn’t have a choice but to hardwire her sconces. She chose these plug-in wall sconces instead of table lamps, and they look more customized. You can hide the cord behind a piece of furniture or a nightstand if you don’t like the look of the hanging cord (I know that many of you do not ;)),). This also gives you more space on your nightstand, which is a nice bonus.

Please pay attention to this sconce, which is located in Emily’s guest room basement at her previous LA home. Emily retrofitted a vintage lamp and attached it to the wall as a “sconce”. Genius! This is a simple, yet unexpected trick which adds personality.

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