Choosing a Table Lamp

Choosing the right table lamp for a space is never as easy as it seems. Lamps enable us to change a space, how it feels and how we use it quickly… At the flick of a switch (It had to be said).

Task Lighting – The Desk Lamp

Task lighting is essential for working under. Whether it’s finally reading that book that you’ve meant to pick up, getting things done on your laptop or simply writing a letter, the right task lighting makes it easier. We’ve all been in the position where we work away as the light fades, not realising how dark it is. Only to turn on a light and have a wow moment, feel more awake and motivated to press on. All thanks to a little more light.

When choosing a desk lamp to work under the important factor to consider is how much light is washed over the surface it‘s focused on. Unlike a more ambient table lamp, a task desk lamp is designed to focus light on a surface or table. So consider how much light you need on the surface you will be working under. How big a spread of light you might need and whether you want a dimmer switch to adjust the light levels to suit you.

Ambient Lighting – The Table Lamp

Ambient light from a table lamp can do so much to any space to create mood, add atmosphere and build ambiance. Unlike a fixed pendant or wall light a table lamp can be moved to another location, changed easily and bring light to unnoticed dark spots.

Choosing the right ambient light comes down to preference. In most cases we all go for a warm 2700K colour temperature to mimic daylight as the sun begins to set, promoting rest and relaxation.

Best of both – The Shaded Lamp

In many cases a little bit of both task and ambient light is needed. For example a bedside table lamp is often needed to read by and provide a soothing ambient light for the room, helping to prepare for sleep. When choosing a lamp with a shade just make sure that the bottom of the shade is at your eye level when sitting next to it. This will help avoid any light from spilling out and shining into your eyes.

Style

This is the place where it all becomes personal. There is no perfect style in a lamp for any space. It all comes down to preferences and the décor of the interior you are creating. There are a few things to consider though…

Size – Yes, it matters… when choosing lamp. It’s easy to pick a lamp that can overwhelm a room. To avoid this, measure up. Make sure you know you’ll have enough space on the surface where the lamp is going to sit for everything else you need. Whether it’s space for your laptop to fit or to add your favourite plant.

Feature – Depending on your space you might want the lamp to sit in the background and let the light effect do the work, or you might want a stand out piece of lighting design to become a focal point for your interior. Either way, decide which is important before choosing.

Shade – It might seem like an obvious one but the right shade can make or break a lamp. A shade diffuses the light from the bulb, breaking it up and directing it to where you need it most. Not every lamp comes with a shade but when they do don’t just judge on the colour, judge it on what it does to the light.

Dimmable – Does it dim? Not all lamps are created equal in this case. Having a dimmable lamp gives you the option to control it’s intensity. Dimming up can give you the light you need to work by while dimming down can create ambiance and set the tone for a space. So if it’s an option for you. Always pick a dimmable solution.

Overall, the most important thing is to know what you want your lamp to do before starting your search. Many people don’t consider this until they have started picking out styles and colours.

If you would like any advice on picking the perfect lamp feel free to get in touch through our website or our chat service in the corner of the screen.