Hanging light fixtures are a simple popular way to light stairways. However, as you noted they sometimes are not the bet aesthetically pleasing architectural feature. I add can lights to many of my clients homes to increase the amount of light in a space. Sconces are a favorite of mine and certainly under utilized in designs. Adding sconces will create an interesting and somewhat unique design. Consider the projection of the sconces as you will not want to project into the stairway passage. If space is tight use ADA approved sconces with a 4" projection.

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