FontanaArte Nobi Wall Light, Rotating Satin Glass Lens Sconce, 10.2 in

The FontanaArte Nobi wall light is a hardwired sconce for living rooms, hallways, studies, meeting rooms and hotel interiors, built around a pair of convex satin glass lenses that you can rotate to steer the light. The lens floats on a slim nickel-plated arm 10.2 in (26 cm) from the wall, giving soft, diffused light on its own or, with the supplied reflector fitted, a direct and indirect beam aimed where you want it. It sits right on the line between decorative and technical lighting: a jewel-like object that also does a serious job.

Quick facts

• Product: Nobi wall light
• Brand: FontanaArte, Milan, Italy
• Item number (MPN): F302345150BINU
• Type: Hardwired adjustable wall sconce
• Best for: living rooms, hallways, studies, bedrooms, conference rooms, hotel corridors and lounges, galleries
• Projection from wall: 10.2 in (26 cm)
• Lens diameter: 5.9 in (15 cm)
• Light source: 1 x R7s linear lamp, 80 mm, 120W maximum, 110V (bulb not included)
• Light/dimming: diffused and dimmable; direct/indirect directional light with the supplied reflector
• Installation: hardwired to a wall junction box
• Rating: IP20, dry indoor locations
• Materials: adjustable satin glass diffuser; satined nickel-plated metal frame and wall support; anodized aluminum reflector
• Finish available: White (satin white glass with nickel metalwork)
• Certification: ETL (Intertek) pending
• Designer: Metis Lighting (1992)
• Styles: Modern, Contemporary, Minimalist

ETL (Intertek) listing for this light is in progress.

Light quality and how it performs

Two convex glass lenses are clipped together around the lamp and pinned to the metal ring, so the whole lens can rotate on its own axis. Turn it face-on to the room for a soft, all-round glow; angle it to send more light up the wall or down onto a surface. Fit the anodized aluminum reflector supplied in the box and Nobi becomes a direct/indirect light that throws a defined wash along the wall, which is ideal for lighting artwork or a long corridor. The R7s linear lamp, up to 120W, is a powerful and dimmable source, so Nobi can serve as real working light in a study or meeting room and drop to a warm glow in the evening. Choose an R7s LED replacement if you prefer lower energy use, checking it is rated as dimmable.

Size and placement

Nobi projects 10.2 in (26 cm) from the wall and its lens is 5.9 in (15 cm) across. Because it stands well off the wall, plan for clearance. As general guidance:

• Living rooms and studies: mount about 5.5 to 6.5 ft (1.7 to 2 m) from the floor, so the lens sits above eye level and the reflected light spreads over the ceiling and wall.
• Corridors: fixtures every 8 to 10 ft (2.4 to 3 m) at about 6.5 ft (2 m) give an even rhythm of light; in public corridors, mount above head height to respect accessibility limits on wall projections.
• Beside a bed: keep it at about 5 ft (1.5 m) or higher and angle the lens upward so it lights the room softly without shining into the eyes of someone lying down.
• Beside artwork or a mirror: place one either side of the frame, a few inches outside the edge, and rotate the lens toward the piece.

Where it works

Homes. Living rooms and dining rooms, where a pair of Nobis frames a fireplace, sideboard or painting; long hallways; home offices and libraries that need strong, adjustable light.

Commercial and hospitality. Meeting and boardrooms, as seen in the maker's projects lighting a vaulted conference room; hotel corridors, lounges and restaurant walls; galleries and showrooms, where the reflector version can wash a wall or highlight work on display.

Style and pairing

Nobi's satin glass and nickel metalwork have a precise, instrument-like quality that suits Modern and Minimalist interiors and adds a touch of 1990s Italian design to Contemporary rooms. It looks particularly good against patterned wallpaper, plaster and stone, where the lens catches and spreads the light, and it pairs well with chrome, steel and pale woods. The wider Nobi family includes floor and pendant versions in the same language.

Why choose Nobi

• A rotating glass lens you can turn to steer the light.
• Two modes: soft diffused light, or direct/indirect with the supplied reflector.
• Powerful, dimmable output for real task and ambient lighting.
• A long-running FontanaArte design, in production since 1992.

Care

Switch off the power and let the lamp cool fully before cleaning, as R7s lamps run hot. Wipe the glass lens with a soft cloth lightly dampened with water or glass cleaner sprayed onto the cloth, then dry. Dust the nickel-plated frame with a dry cloth. Handle R7s lamps with a clean cloth or gloves; skin oils shorten halogen lamp life.

Frequently asked questions

Can I aim the light? Yes. The glass lens rotates on its axis to point the light in different directions.

What does the supplied reflector do? Fitting it turns the diffused glow into direct and indirect directional light, useful for washing a wall or lighting artwork.

What bulb does it take? One R7s linear lamp, 80 mm long, 120W maximum, 110V. The bulb is not included.

Can I use an LED bulb? Yes, an R7s LED lamp of the same length can be used; choose a dimmable one if you plan to dim.

Is it dimmable? Yes. Use a dimmer compatible with your chosen lamp.

How far does it project from the wall? 10.2 in (26 cm); the lens is 5.9 in (15 cm) in diameter.

Is it good for an office or meeting room? Yes. Its strong, adjustable light is well suited to meeting rooms and studies.

How is it installed? It is hardwired to a wall junction box by an electrician.

Can it go in a bathroom? No. It is rated IP20 for dry interiors only.

Is it certified? ETL (Intertek) listing is pending.

Trade & project orders

Interior designers, architects and hospitality buyers can join the MetropolitanDecor trade program for trade pricing. We also prepare quotes for multi-unit and project orders; contact us with your quantities.

Please note: Because this item is made to order or specially sourced, it is final sale.