Using a table lamp is the easiest and most flexible way of addressing your lighting needs. Table lamps are a great alternative when you need to add more light to a room, and they can also deliver if you prefer softer lighting in the room. As they come in all variety of shapes and sizes you are sure to find one that fits your style and budget.
As with any of your furnishings, there are certain things that you should consider about a lamp before you bring one home. After all you want it to serve a purpose, which is to provide a certain kind of light, while also complementing your décor.
Size
Table lamps come in many different heights and widths. They can be anywhere from 25" to 32" tall. There is an even greater variety of width available, ranging from candlestick types to wider, more substantial ones.
To help you decide on the size of your lamp, consider where you plan to place it. For a narrow or delicate accent table, select a slender lamp. Not only will it be more attractive visually, but safer too, as a bulky lamp on a narrow or unsteady surface could topple over.
A table's height will also dictate your lamp's height. Shorter lamps on look better on higher tables, and taller ones on lower tables.
Style
There is an infinite variety of styles available. Choose a style that will complement your décor. Does your room have a modern feel to it? Buy a lamp that will be at home in that setting.
For a more traditional room a sleek, modern lamp might feel completely out of place. Look to something that is more traditional, like an urn shape. Try to align your lamp choice with your existing décor.
Shades
Most lamps come with detachable shades that you can easily change. The size of the shade depends on how large your lamp is, and where you are placing it.
Use a light colored shade such as white or off-white if you need more light from your lamp, such as for reading. A darker or opaque shade limits the light output and is good when you want a more subtle effect.
Light Bulbs
It is important to consider what kind of bulb a table lamp will take as bulbs for table lamps can range from 15 to 150 watts. It is important to remember that you should never use higher wattage than specified on your lamp. You can always go lower.
Do you need the lamp for a decorative purpose only? A low wattage lamp could serve that purpose well. But if you are relying on your lamp to be an important source of light, consider getting one that accommodates three way lighting, where you can make your light brighter or dimmer as needed.
