When setting the mood for your home or office, few things are more important than lighting. Table lamps are both functional and beautiful. With endless choices available, there are many factors to consider when choosing the perfect lighting.
Table of Contents
Size
You must consider both the size of the lamp and, if applicable, the size of the shade. Choose a lamp that suits the size of the table where you intend to place it. If you are putting it on a large, heavy end table, then a small, delicate lamp will look out of place. On the other hand, if you have a narrow bedside table, you need a smaller lamp. As a rule, the width of the lampshade should not exceed the size of the table. Not only does it look strange, but it is also less functional and easier to knock over.
What is the appropriate height for designer table lamps? The answer depends on how and where the lamp is to be used. Before you go shopping, stand or sit by the table and measure from the table to eye level. The lower edge of the shade should be at or below eye level to properly shield your eyes from the light.
Consider the size of your room as well. A large room with a high ceiling calls for a larger lamp, while a shorter lamp is more appropriate for a small space.
Weight
Heavy lamps are more stable, so they are a safer choice for high-traffic areas in your home, especially if you have children or pets. The downside is that a heavy lamp can overwhelm a small table. Fortunately, there are options available that offer weight and stability without being visually overwhelming. Shadeless glass table lamps offer a modern, minimalist look and are difficult to knock over.
Shade Material
The material of the lampshade affects not only the visual impact of the lamp but also its functionality.
a) Fabric
Cotton fabric in pale colours is the most common choice for lampshades, as it lets the most light through. This is important if the lamp is the only light source in the room or if you plan to use it for reading, knitting or other activities that require high visibility.
If you don’t need a bright lamp, a heavy brocade shade can lend a moody, elegant look to your space. However, it can be more difficult to clean.
b) Glass
For durability and ease of cleaning, the best choice is glass. Glass lampshades are available in many colours and styles, from antique to modern. Unlike fabric shades, they are highly resistant to fading and easy to dust.
c) Metal
Metal shades are a popular choice for desk lamps because they direct light downward. As a bedside table lamp, they can provide visibility for reading without flooding the room with light.
Colour
When choosing colours, you can match the main colours of your room, or you can choose lamps in a complementary colour. Avoid lamps that match the colour of the walls too closely. If you want the lamp to match the room, choose one a few shades lighter or darker than the wall colour so it will coordinate without disappearing into the wall.
Metal colour is another concern when choosing lamps. Consider the other furniture and decor in the room. Metals needn’t match perfectly, but a mix of many different metals can make a room look uncoordinated. For example, if your existing decor includes gold accents, then a brass table lamp would be appropriate, but a lamp with a chrome base might look out of place.
Matching
In rooms that require multiple lamps, some people like to purchase sets of identical lamps. This is an easy way to coordinate, and it’s ideal in situations that require symmetry and cohesion. For example, if you are choosing lamps for a long dining table, you should use identical lamps. Matching lamps also lend a polished and professional look to an office or waiting room.
In most situations, however, mixing and matching styles and colours makes a room more interesting. Look for lamps that are different shapes or styles but share common colours and materials.
The perfect lamp can bring a touch of beauty and elegance to any room. The right material, colour and design will complement your decor and convey your personal style.
