Modern Floor & Table Lamps

There are several different types of table lamps. By location, bedside lamps allow for reading before turning in for the night, while desk lamps illuminate important tasks such as work and study. Table lamps come in a variety of styles such as modern, contemporary, traditional and more, and some table lamps stand out with features such as adjustable swing arms, USB charge ports and touch activation.

Determine the current décor in the room and try to match the table lamp with that style. Table lamps that match will create a sense of flow, reinvigorating and reinforcing the style in the room. Size, shape and color of the table lamp can also be determined by existing fixtures in the room.

Table lamps can create accent and task light in the room, adding to the ambiance in subtle ways if sitting on an end table or illuminating important tasks such as work or reading when placed on a desk.

Some table lamps allow for swapping light bulbs, such as upgrading to energy-efficient LEDs, although some contain integrated bulbs that are not adjustable.

Generally, table lamps are best when they are about 30 inches tall from the base to the top of the shade or finial. Additionally, the top of the lamp should be up to 64 inches from the ground. These heights ensure the ideal position as an accent or reading lamp.

Dimmer functionality is a popular aspect of many table lamps. Options can include the ability to be adjusted with a dimmer switch or a touch dimmer on the lamp itself.

Many table lamps, called reading lamps, can be used as bedside reading lights. These lamps sit at a height ideal for illuminating the page of a book while staying out of direct eyesight.

Table lamps work best when placed on end tables or side tables, usually by seating areas. These positions allow table lamps to create a glow that accents the surrounding space.

Some table lamps have built-in USB charging ports so devices such as phones and tablets can be charged.

Cleaning and maintaining a table lamp will depend on the specific model. Always consult the fixture’s manual to determine proper cleaning procedures.

Floor lamps are available in a range of styles, sizes and colors, ensuring a specific, ideal floor lamp can be matched to the room's needs. These styles include modern, contemporary, traditional and several more. Some floor lamps will have additional features that help them stand out, such as adjustable swing arms, touch dimmers or USB charging ports.

Consider the type of lighting, ambient, task or accent, that is desired for the room. Floor lamps come in each of these types of lighting, and each one provides a distinct function in the room. After determining the function of the lamp, try to match the style and color with other existing fixtures or furnishings in the room. The size of the lamp and how the light spreads is also an important decision.

Floor lamps, especially ones with adjustable swing arms, are ideal for task lighting. Floor lamps can provide an indirect, ambient glow that illuminates the task while shaping the mood of the room and can provide direct task lighting when set near a table or seating arrangement.

Floor lamps can be used as the primary light source in a room, but always consider layering light with multiple types of light fixtures such as wall sconces and pendants to achieve a full display of light in the room.

Adjustable floor lamps allow the light to be positioned as needed at a moment’s notice. Whereas non-adjustable floor lamps provide only one direction and type of lighting, adjustable floor lamps provide a dynamic use of light. This dynamic range can follow the same task from one seat to another with features such as swingarms, and if the task changes, such as from detail-oriented work to casual reading or playing a game, features like an adjustable height or dimming capabilities can make these activities more effective and enjoyable.

Many floor lamps create a specific ambiance in the room depending on the lamp’s size, style and capabilities. Shades or exposed bulbs also provide different lighting displays in the room.

Some floor lamps come with a series of shelves. These shelves range in size, being capable of holding displays of plants, books and other home accessories, or small enough to hold needed personal items such as wallets, phones and keys.

Floor lamps should be positioned along the side or corner of the room, where the light can reflect off the walls and ceiling to produce ambiance. This will maximize the direct and indirect lighting capabilities of the lamp.

Many floor lamps come with dimming capabilities, either through a nearby dimmer switch or as a touch dimmer function on the lamp itself.

Some floor lamps can be used in an outdoor setting. Check the location rating, dry, damp or wet, to determine if the lamp can be used outdoors. A damp rating allows the lamp to be in the same vicinity of water and moisture, while a wet rating allows for direct exposure to the elements.