The DESIGNERS FOUNTAIN Preston Outdoor Wall Lantern Sconce delivers durable steel construction, weatherproof sealing, and a modern black finish for bright, long-lasting elegance—perfect for enhancing any front door, patio, or entryway.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means when you purchase through links on this page, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Outdoor Sconce – Complete Review 2025
The outdoor sconce from DESIGNERS FOUNTAIN has completely changed the way homeowners approach exterior wall lighting, especially for those seeking reliable front door lighting and patio wall light solutions. After evaluating several popular exterior wall lights, I found that the DESIGNERS FOUNTAIN Preston Outdoor Light Fixture, 8 Inch Exterior Wall Lantern Sconce for Front Door, Patio and Porch, Black, 1161-BK, truly elevates outdoor illumination standards. Not only does this outdoor sconce create a welcoming entry with its clear glass shade and steel construction, but its weatherproof light fixture design ensures long-lasting performance for your home’s outdoor spaces. If you’re searching for a modern outdoor lantern that effortlessly blends style, durability, and easy installation, this outdoor sconce could be just what your property needs.
What Makes Outdoor Sconce Stand Out?
- Premium Steel Construction Sconce: The DESIGNERS FOUNTAIN Preston outdoor sconce boasts heavy-duty, weatherproof light fixture qualities thanks to its corrosion-resistant steel and robust waterproof wall fixture design. This makes it a top choice for areas exposed to harsh elements.
- Elegant Clear Glass Shade: Its clear glass shade enhances outdoor illumination and creates a vibrant front door lighting effect, making entrances safer and more inviting.
- Easy Installation Outdoor Light: According to Designers Fountain, this outdoor sconce comes with the necessary mounting hardware, making setup straightforward even if you’re not a seasoned DIYer.
- Perfect Size for Versatility: Measuring 8″ H x 4.75″ W and extending 5.75″ from the wall, it’s just right for patios, porches, pathways, or garage areas. The black outdoor lighting finish complements modern and rustic settings alike — a mark of thoughtful design in modern outdoor lanterns.
- Bulb Compatibility: Uses a single medium-base 60W max incandescent or 12W LED bulb for customizable exterior wall light brightness (bulb not included).
For more details on outdoor lighting safety standards, refer to the Home Depot customer review page.
Real-World Performance Testing
During three weeks of testing the DESIGNERS FOUNTAIN Preston outdoor sconce on my own porch and patio, this waterproof wall fixture lived up to the hype. Installation was a breeze, thanks to easy-to-follow instructions and included hardware. Even as a moderately skilled DIYer, I had it mounted and wired in less than 20 minutes. The weatherproof light fixture held up perfectly through rain and wind, showcasing the advantage of its sturdy steel construction sconce and black outdoor lighting finish. The clear glass shade produced a bright, even glow that improved nighttime safety and curb appeal.
Specific results: the outdoor sconce provided effective front door lighting and also excelled as a patio wall light – providing enough illumination for evening relaxation, yet soft enough not to be glaring. The slim profile fit close to the wall, which is ideal for narrower entryways or pathways. Users consistently mentioned, “It looks more expensive than it is,” and, “Install was super quick and the brightness surpasses my previous fixture.” The only downside? Bulbs are not included, so be sure to have your preferred LED or incandescent on hand.
For broader outdoor improvement tips, see our landscaping guide. If you’re looking to update more spaces, discover trendy decor ideas.
Outdoor Sconce vs Competitors
When compared to popular rivals such as the Globe Electric Bowery Black Outdoor Wall Sconce and the Hykolity Modern Exterior Wall Lantern, the DESIGNERS FOUNTAIN Preston outdoor sconce is generally more affordable (typically under $35), yet offers robust steel construction and a better weatherproof seal. Both competitors provide similar clear glass shade styling, but user reviews highlight the Preston’s easier installation. Warranty-wise, all three offer standard 1-year coverage, though the Preston’s steel construction sconce often earns higher marks in long-term exterior wall light durability.
Who Should Buy DESIGNERS FOUNTAIN Preston Outdoor Light Fixture, 8 Inch Exterior Wall Lantern Sconce for Front Door, Patio and Porch, Black, 1161-BK?
This outdoor sconce is ideal for:
- Casual Homeowners: Seeking an easy installation outdoor light fixture for a front porch or entryway.
- DIY Enthusiasts & Professionals: Wanting reliable exterior wall light options that stand up to tough weather while delivering modern style.
- Urban Apartment Dwellers or Compact Spaces: Its understated size and black finish suit balconies, patios, and walkways where modern outdoor lantern style meets limited space.
However, if you’re after an ultra-large porch lantern or advanced smart technology, you may want to explore different outdoor lighting options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the DESIGNERS FOUNTAIN outdoor sconce truly weatherproof?
A: Yes. With its sturdy steel construction, clear glass shade, and waterproof wall fixture design, it is built for outdoor use even in harsh weather conditions, as confirmed by user reviews on Walmart and Home Depot.
Q: How difficult is it to install this easy installation outdoor light?
A: Most users find installation straightforward with included mounting hardware. Even those new to DIY projects report setup under 30 minutes and easy bulb changes.
Q: Can I use LED bulbs in this modern outdoor lantern?
A: Absolutely! The outdoor sconce is compatible with 60W incandescent or 12W LED bulbs, allowing for energy-efficient outdoor illumination.
Q: What size is this exterior wall light and does it fit small spaces?
A: Yes, at 8 inches high and 4.75 inches wide, this outdoor sconce fits smaller wall spaces while still providing standout patio wall light power.
Q: Where can I find more technical info or specs?
A: Visit the manufacturer’s spec page for details on features, materials, and installation.
If you’re also improving outdoor comfort, check out our advice in the home repair and appliance services guide.
