Sometimes it really is the little things that make the difference to a room. Make the most of cosy nights in with a table lamp that delivers on function and style. When it comes to buying, there’s a wide range of options to consider, from basic uplighters, to grand statement lamps that can bring a whole room together. There are so many choices to choose from but where does one start?
Uplighters can improve general illumination in a room that’s too dim even with the main light on. Reading lamps and adjustable lights are suited to tasks that require focus. If you’re just after some added warmth and atmosphere for your space, then fabric shades and diffusers are what to look for. Finally, a feature floor lamp can be just the thing to finish your perfectly planned interior. Be inspired by the different styles and choose the lamp that fits in your interior!
Table and floor lamps are a piece of homeware where money buys you quality rather than style. You don’t have to shell out for something expensive to get a certain look, but the more expensive lamps will usually have better fittings, a fabric cord rather than plastic, a high-quality switch, a better level of finish and sometimes a guarantee too! Therefore, do your research and don’t forget to measure. Here are 7 Top Tips On Buying a Table Lamps
1. What to look for in a Table Lamp?
Table Lamp Materials
Table Lamps come in a variety of materials from the more traditional (ceramic and glass) to contemporary (metal and acrylic). Wood, selenite and faux shagreen are also becoming increasingly popular.
Table Lamp Styles
Styles range from the ever-stylish gourd shape to sculptural statement pieces (think faux coral and urchin starbursts) and even designs embellished with petrified wood or agate slices.
Table Lamp Shades
When it comes to shades, the most common contemporary shapes are drum, empire and rectangle; traditional shapes include box pleat, bell and pagoda. The most common shade materials are paper, silk and linen. A coloured or metallic inner is often used to influence the warmth of the light emitted. This is important if you are looking to counteract the natural light of your room with artificial lighting.
2. Cables
3. Bulbs/Lights
Light your home using the same amount of light for less money. An average household dedicates about 5% of its energy budget to lighting. Switching to energy-efficient lighting is one of the fastest ways to cut your energy bills. Although not always considered task lighting, table lamps often are used for specific purposes which will require different bulb specifications. These days, brightness is most accurately measured in lumens – not wattage. If you plan to use your lamp in a reading nook or on a desk, opt for a brighter light (around 50 lumens); for bedrooms or creating an atmospheric environment, try a subtler light (around 30 watts).
In small spaces, it iss handy to consider the diameter of the base as well as the shade given how much space you have. Check what type of bulb is required (and whether it’s easy to get hold of for future replacements). LED bulbs are pricier, but more energy-efficient, yet many lamps still only have halogen bulbs as an option.
4 .Think outside the box
Mixing lamps is most definitely allowed. If your room’s style leans towards eclectic but try to keep bedside table lamps the same.
5. Location of Table Lamps
Table lamps are one of the most widely used lighting options because they can be used in just about every room. Our top three spots for a table lamp are:
Hallway
A console table is a hallway staple and a luxury table lamp makes the perfect partner. Not only do they provide light for those moments when you really need them, one all had the experience of lost keys, finding something, they add interest to an often unsung space.
Bedside Table
The most obvious choice is putting a table lamp on the bedside table. Obvious right? When is subtle lighting more needed than at bedtime? A carefully chosen bedside table lamp will create a calming, romantic mood. Bedside table lamps shouldn’t feel overwhelming though so unless your furniture is really on the grand scale, choose a smaller design than the one you would choose for a living room or hallway.
Side Table
Lighting schemes are often rounded off by a layer of lighting around eye level so a table lamp on a side table is a great option, particularly in a living room or sitting area. They offer a flattering pool of light which counteracts unflattering shadows from general lighting and often act as the invisible boundaries of an intimate seating area.
These are just three classic spots but, when placing table lamps, think about where your home needs that little bit extra light. These transportable designs can be used in a variety of settings.
6. Dimmer
A dimmer function goes a step further and allows you to control the amount of light from each lamp exactly when you need it. Consider this when planning your lighting scheme at the beginning.
7. Don’t forget…
Care for them as you would other accessories or ornaments, dusting and treating any metal, wood or glass where appropriate. Table Lamps last forever until you get bored and want another change…
Here is a video by Lamps Plus check out the Best Tip for Choosing the Right Height Table Lamp.
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