Choosing the right lamps for your home can transform the ambiance of each room. Whether looking for functional lighting for a workspace or a statement piece to anchor your living area, the perfect lamp can make all the difference. Here’s a breakdown of some of our favorite lamp styles to help you choose lighting that serves a purpose and complements your overall design.
Arc Lamp
An arc lamp is a fantastic choice if you’re looking to make a bold, modern statement. This floor lamp features a long, curved arm that can extend over a sofa or seating area, providing light exactly where you need it without taking up table space.
Notable Feature: Dramatic arching design perfect for lighting up large spaces.
Best for: Modern, Contemporary, or Industrial styles.
Arc Brass Floor Lamp with Drum Shade – arhaus.com
Torchiere Floor Lamp
A torchiere floor lamp directs light upwards, filling the room with a soft, ambient glow. These sleek and slender lamps don’t take up much floor space, making them ideal for rooms where you want a bright yet diffuse light without overpowering other decor.
Notable Feature: Upward-facing light that enhances ambient lighting in any room.
Best for: Traditional, Transitional, or Art Deco interiors.
Fiona Torchiere – lumens.com
Table Lamp
Table lamps are versatile, coming in endless styles and sizes, making them a great addition to almost any room. Whether on a side table in the living room or on a nightstand in the bedroom, table lamps provide task lighting and help balance your decor.
Notable Feature: Compact size and versatility make it suitable for most settings.
Best for: Any style, depending on the design of the lamp.
Lulu Velvet Table Lamp – anthropologie.com
Buffet Lamp
Tall and narrow buffet lamps are often used in pairs to add symmetry to a console table or buffet. They’re ideal for adding a bit of sophistication to your dining room or entryway without taking up too much surface space.
Notable Feature: Tall, slender design ideal for adding height to tablescapes.
Best for: Traditional, Transitional, or French Country styles.
Luanndon Buffet Lamp – ashleyfurniture.com
Task Lamp
Task lamps are all about functionality. They provide focused light for reading, working, or any activity that requires precise lighting. They’re often adjustable, making it easy to direct the light where it’s most needed.
Notable Feature: Adjustable arms for directing light to specific areas.
Best for: Modern, Industrial, or Contemporary spaces.
Henley Task Lamp, Antiqued Brass – onekingslane.com
Swing Arm Wall Lamp
If you’re tight on space or prefer a wall-mounted solution, a swing arm wall lamp is a fantastic choice. These lamps are mounted on the wall and feature an arm that can extend, making them ideal for reading nooks or bedside lighting without needing a table.
Notable Feature: Wall-mounted with an adjustable arm for flexible lighting.
Best for: Modern, Transitional, or Minimalist styles.
Franklin Iron Works Easley Modern Swing Arm Adjustable Wall Lamp – amazon.com
Banker’s Lamp
The classic banker’s lamp, with its brass or metal base and green glass shade, has a vintage appeal that brings character to any office or study space. It’s functional and provides direct light, perfect for reading or working.
Notable Feature: Vintage green glass shade for a classic, professional look.
Best for: Traditional, Vintage, or Eclectic styles.
Vintage Green Glass and Brass Bankers Lamp – chairish.com
Touch Lamp
Touch lamps offer easy, modern functionality. A simple touch on the base or shade can turn them on and off or adjust brightness. These lamps are convenient for bedside tables or children’s rooms, where you want lighting at your fingertips.
Notable Feature: Touch-sensitive base for easy operation and adjustable brightness.
Best for: Modern, Contemporary, or Minimalist interiors.
21 inch Set of 2 Touch Control Table Lamps with 2 USB & AC Outlets, 3-Way Dimmable Modern Nightstand Lamps – amazon.com
Lantern Lamp
Lantern lamps draw inspiration from traditional lanterns but with a modern twist. They can add a cozy, warm feeling to a room and are typically used as accent pieces. Whether table-mounted or free-standing, lantern lamps are an excellent addition to a welcoming, rustic feel.
Notable Feature: Lantern design that brings warmth and character to a room.
Best for: Rustic, Farmhouse, or Coastal decor.
Vintage Lantern Lamp with Dual USB Charging Ports (set of 2) – amazon.com
Tripod Floor Lamp
A tripod floor lamp is a stylish option that also makes a statement in your room. With its three-legged base, this lamp adds visual interest and stability. It often comes in contemporary or mid-century designs that fit a variety of aesthetics.
Notable Feature: Sturdy three-legged base with a stylish, statement-making look.
Best for: Mid-Century Modern, Contemporary, or Industrial styles.
Tripod Floor Lamp – visualcomfort.com
Sculptural Lamp
For those looking to add a touch of artistry to their decor, a sculptural lamp functions as both a light source and a piece of decor. These lamps come in unique shapes and designs, from abstract forms to figurative pieces, making them a true conversation starter.
Notable Feature: Artistic design that adds visual interest to any room.
Best for: Eclectic, Modern, or Art Deco interiors.
Sculptural Wood and Metal Mid Century Table Lamp C 1950’s – chairish.com
Gourd Lamp
Gourd lamps are characterized by their curvy, rounded bases resembling gourd shapes. They’re often ceramic and come in vibrant colors or interesting textures, adding a playful yet stylish touch to your space.
Notable Feature: Unique, rounded shape that adds personality and style.
Best for: Bohemian, Transitional, or Traditional styles.
Gourd Form Table Lamp by Chapman & Myers for Visual Comfort Signature – lumens.com
Pharmacy Lamp
Inspired by vintage designs, pharmacy lamps have a classic, functional look with an adjustable arm and head for focused lighting. They’re ideal for reading areas or home offices, providing a nod to vintage charm while offering modern functionality.
Notable Feature: Adjustable design that combines style with practicality.
Best for: Industrial, Traditional, or Vintage interiors.
360 Lighting Culver Traditional Pharmacy Floor Lamp Standing LED Adjustable Height Plated 57 inch Tall – amazon.com
Ceramic Lamp
Ceramic lamps bring a handcrafted, artisanal vibe to a room. Often used as table lamps, they come in various shapes and colors, and the ceramic base can feature unique textures and patterns. These lamps are perfect for adding an artistic touch to a space.
Notable Feature: Artisan ceramic base adds texture and visual interest.
Best for: Eclectic, Bohemian, or Transitional styles.
Jamon Table Lamp – ashleyfurnitue.com
Illuminate Your Space with Style and Purpose
Each lamp type has its own personality and purpose, so consider what kind of light you need, the vibe you want to create, and the style of your space. Explore styles that enhance your decor, add warmth, and make your space inviting. Let your lighting choices bring both style and comfort to every corner of your home.
FAQs
What type of lamp is best for reading?
- Task lamps and swing arm wall lamps are ideal for reading as they provide focused, adjustable light. Pharmacy lamps are also great for reading due to their adjustable arms and targeted lighting, which helps reduce eye strain.
How do I choose the right lamp for my living room?
- Consider both the function and style of the lamp. For general lighting, a torchiere or tripod floor lamp works well. For ambient or accent lighting, table lamps or sculptural lamps can add character and warmth to your decor.
What’s the difference between a table lamp and a buffet lamp?
- Table lamps are versatile and vary widely in size, making them suitable for almost any room. Buffet lamps, however, are typically taller and slender, designed to add height and symmetry, especially on console tables or in dining rooms.
Which lamp styles are best for small spaces?
- Swing arm wall lamps and compact touch lamps are excellent choices for small spaces. These options offer lighting without taking up valuable surface or floor space, making them ideal for tight areas.
How can I use multiple lamps to create layered lighting?
- Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting. For example, use a torchiere for ambient light, a task lamp near seating areas for functional lighting, and a decorative table or sculptural lamp to add character and visual interest. This layering creates a well-balanced and inviting atmosphere.
The Curated Showhouse
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