7 ET2 Mid Century Wall Lights That Fit a 6-Inch Recess

Most people buy an ET2 wall sconce, measure once, and then discover the mounting plate covers only half of the existing junction box. That gap between the fixture's backplate and your wall surface is the number one complaint I hear from clients who order these lights online. The fix is not complicated, but it requires knowing your wall depth and the sconce's canopy size before you commit to a purchase.

ET2 builds modern lighting with a distinct mid-century silhouette, but their backplates vary from 4.5 inches to over 8 inches wide. If you have an older home with a recessed electrical box, you need a sconce with a canopy that overlaps the hole by at least 1/2 inch on every side. Below, I break down seven specific models that handle this well, plus what changes when you move them from a hallway to a bedroom.

The 5-Inch Depth Rule for Recessed Boxes

A standard US junction box sits flush with the drywall, but many homes built before 1980 have boxes set back 1/4 to 3/4 inch. When you mount a wall light with a flat backplate, that recess leaves a visible gap around the edges.

The rule I use: measure the depth from the box rim to the finished wall surface. If that number exceeds 1/2 inch, you need a fixture with a deep canopy or a universal mounting ring. ET2's Contour series includes a 0.8-inch deep canopy that covers most recesses without extra parts. For anything deeper, you will need a box extender, which costs about $8 at a hardware store and adds 1/2 inch of depth.

Which ET2 Sconce Handles a Narrow Hallway Best?

Hallways between 30 and 36 inches wide create a different problem: the sconce sticks out too far. A wall light that projects 7 inches from the wall will get bumped by shoulders and furniture.

For narrow corridors, look for fixtures with a projection of 4 inches or less. The ET2 Contour 1-Light Wall Sconce projects only 3.5 inches and uses a 6-inch round backplate. It works well in a 32-inch hallway because the light sits close to the wall while still casting a warm glow upward and downward. If you prefer a rectangular shape, the ET2 Linear LED Sconce has a 5-inch projection but a slimmer profile that reads as less bulky in tight spaces.

Bedroom Placement: Height and Dimming Options

Bedrooms need a different mounting height than hallways. For bedside sconces, mount the center of the fixture 60 inches above the floor, which places the light at seated eye level. For a reading light, the bottom edge should sit 18 to 24 inches above the mattress top.

The ET2 Modo is my pick for a bedroom because it accepts a dimmer switch without flickering, provided you use an LED bulb rated for dimming. Most ET2 sconces work with standard dimmers, but check the bulb's packaging for the "dimmable" label. A 6-inch recessed box in a bedroom usually has no clearance issues, so you can focus on the fixture's style rather than the mounting depth.

Bathroom and Powder Room Variations

Damp-rated fixtures matter in bathrooms. ET2 marks some models as damp-rated, meaning they survive steam and humidity without corroding. The ET2 Arch 2-Light is rated for damp locations, but it projects 6 inches, so only use it in a powder room with at least 40 inches of clearance in front of the sink.

For a small powder room, a single sconce mounted at 66 inches above the floor, centered over the mirror, gives even light without shadows. The Modo works here because its 4.5-inch backplate covers a standard box easily, and its 4-inch projection keeps it out of the way. Avoid placing sconces directly above a mirror; the heat from the bulbs can damage the mirror's silver backing over time.

How to Avoid the Wrong Bulb Size

ET2 fixtures commonly use E12 candelabra bases or E26 medium bases, and the wattage rating varies by model. The Contour series takes a single 60-watt equivalent LED bulb with an E12 base. The Linear uses an integrated LED module that you cannot replace, so you must match the color temperature at purchase—choose 2700K for a warm glow or 3000K for a cleaner look.

A mistake I see often: buying a fixture rated for 40 watts and installing a 60-watt bulb. That shortens the life of the socket and can melt the wiring inside the canopy. Always check the sticker inside the fixture before choosing a bulb. For a modern wall sconce with an E26 base, you have more bulb options, including smart bulbs that change color temperature throughout the day.

Upkeep and Cleaning Without Damaging the Finish

ET2 uses finishes like brushed brass, matte black, and oil-rubbed bronze, and each needs different care. For matte black, use a dry microfiber cloth only—water leaves streaks. For brass, a slightly damp cloth with a drop of mild dish soap works, but dry it immediately to prevent water spots.

Do not use ammonia-based glass cleaners on the shade. The chemical reacts with the lacquer on some ET2 finishes and causes clouding. Instead, use a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water for the glass, and wipe the metal parts with a separate dry cloth. If you need to replace a glass shade, measure the diameter and the depth of the fitter ring before ordering a replacement. A mid century wall sconce replacement shade usually costs between $15 and $35, depending on the size.

Matching the Finish to Your Existing Hardware

The finish on your door handles and cabinet knobs should guide your choice. If your home has brushed nickel hardware, a brushed brass sconce will clash. Stick to one metal family per room. For a room with mixed metals, choose a fixture with a neutral black finish, which pairs with almost anything.

The ET2 Contour comes in a matte black option that hides fingerprints well in a hallway. The Arch in brushed brass works in a living room with brass floor lamps. If you are unsure, order a brushed brass wall sconce and a matte black wall sconce, hold them against your wall, and return the one that does not fit. Most online retailers allow returns within 30 days, so you can test the finish in your actual lighting conditions before committing.

The mounting depth, the projection, and the bulb base are the three numbers that determine whether a fixture works in your room. Measure those first, then choose the style you like.

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