Table Lamps

It has been said that the three most important factors to consider when buying a home are: location, location, location. In the same vein, three of the most important elements of interior design are lighting, lighting, lighting. Modern home lighting is a critical interior design aspect — especially table lighting.

A good table lamp goes above and beyond its job description. For example, a matching table lamp set not only provides ample light but also helps tie a large room together. Unique and decorative table lamps for living room areas can simultaneously populate an accent table, shed light on a reading chair, and illuminate design objects. Choose from mid-century modern table lamps, contemporary table lamps, and more to instantly enhance your interiors.

Table Lamp Styles

Here’s a roundup of some of the most popular table lamp styles to consider.

A lantern table lamp comprises a base and a shade. As simple as this style seems, it can be anything but. Sculptural silhouettes and luxe materials put a contemporary twist on the classic column-base-and-drum-shade design. An adjustable table lamp is usually constructed with pivot points or a swing arm so that you can direct the light. Some adjustable styles feature a flexible arm that can be shaped to position the diffuser or bulb.

Think beyond a task lamp and opt for a modern decorative table lamp, such as a bubble lamp. This style features a blown glass sphere or oval and casts a soft, luminous light. Alternatively, a minimalist table lamp features clean lines and an angular silhouette. It’s often rendered in sleek powder-coated aluminum.

Lastly, if you don’t have an outlet near your accent table or nightstand, consider a portable table lamp. This style boasts a modern aesthetic — and most cordless LED lamps can run for 10-24 hours on a single charge.

How to Pick Table Lamps

Once you know which table lamp styles appeal to you, consider where to place them in your home. Position end table lamps atop matching accent tables on either side of a sofa. For a bedroom, opt for a table lamp set: Place one on each bedside nightstand to provide reading light and create a calming environment. A USB table lamp is ideal for an area that lacks a nearby outlet, like an accent table or credenza.

Don’t forget to consider table lamp height as well as overall table lamp dimensions. The size of your surface should help determine the size of the lamp. For a small accent table or nightstand, steer away from a large lamp that will overwhelm the area. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a lamp for a large desk or sizable end table, don’t opt for something too small that will get lost in the overall landscape. Enjoy selecting table lamps for your home — they’re an easy choice for livening up and illuminating your interiors.

At Design Within Reach, we’re here to answer questions and more, with complementary design services to support you at every step of your interior design journey. Our staff of in-store design professionals can give advice and recommendations via chat, photos, and live video. They can also do 3-D renderings of your rooms so you can see how an arrangement might work. Look for the black chat icon at the lower right of webpages.