When it comes to brightening up your home, the details matter as much as the big picture does. The best home lighting look combines all three different types of lighting, ambient, task & accent lighting, to achieve a stylish and functional space.
That’s why we love table lamps so much! They’re the perfect lighting solution and can help to transform your space from bland into beautiful. Even better, table lamps come in a mind-boggling range of styles, sizes, shapes and colours to ensure you’ll find one you'll love.
The one downside to all those options? It can be hard to decide which is the one. To that end, our team of design experts here at The Lighting Outlet has put together their top tips to help you find your perfect table lamp and their favourite lamp options to help inspire you in your search.
They May Be Tiny, But Table Lamps Can Still Pack a Punch
Sure, they aren’t as powerful as ambient overhead lighting, but table lamps have their place in any home lighting plan. While overheads and floor lamps have been the go-to for years, we’ve been seeing a delightful rise in the tiny table lamp trend. It’s about time!
Decorative table lamps are a great way to add personality to almost any space in your house. They offer a huge range of benefits, limitless lighting possibilities and can immediately augment the look and feel of your home (if you choose the right lamp, that is).
The Perfect Piece: 5 Tips for Finding the Right Lamp
As we mentioned above, table lamps come in every shape, size, colour and style imaginable — so how do you choose the right one? Here are five tips to help you choose the best table lamps for living rooms, bedrooms and everywhere else.
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Understand the purpose
What will you be using the lamp for? Do you need a unique piece to add some pizzazz to your space, or are you looking for something more functional for your office desk or nightstand? Know what task you want your lamp to perform so that you can pick the perfect one. If you’re searching for dedicated task lighting, stick to dark, opaque lampshades and adjustable options. If lamp decoration is your goal, then it’s okay to pick out a piece based strictly on its looks.
- Choose the location wisely
Pick out a place for your lamp to live before you buy it — trust us, it will save you a headache! Begin by looking for areas in a room that need some extra light, then consider what size of lamp will fit in the space.
- Match your lamp to the space
While contrast is okay, your lamp should still fit into the overall theme of the space it’s in. Treat decorative lamps like an accessory and be sure that they add to, rather than detract, from the room.
- Pick something with personality
Finally, find something that you love! Be sure to consider both the body of the lamp and the shade itself to find something that fits your style and taste. And remember, if your lamp just doesn’t have that wow factor, it’s okay to try again.
- Size does matter
It’s important to match the lamp size to the space it’s in. A large lamp on a small table will look silly and be more likely to get knocked over, while a small lamp on a large table will also look out of place.
Table Lamp Size Guide
The size of your table lamp is almost as important as the design. A lamp that’s too large can overcrowd the space and draw attention away from other features of the room. Similarly, a lamp that’s too small may not have the desired lighting impact.
The key dimensions to consider when choosing a table lamp are:
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The bottom of the lamp shade should be no higher than eye level.
- The lamp shade should be about 1/3 of the lamp’s height.
- The lamp should be no taller than 1.5x the height of the table.
- The base of the shade should be about twice as wide as the base of the lamp.
- The lamp shade shouldn’t be wider than the table the lamp is on.
More Than Décor: The Benefits of Table Lamps
We love decorative lamps but we’d be remiss if we relegated table lamps to just another décor trend. Yes, lamp decoration is a great way to show off your personality and add layers of light to a room, but table lamps have so much more to offer than just their looks!
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Functional:
Table lamps are great for adding a warm, cosy glow to your home. Even better, they’re also an ideal source of task lighting. Side table lamps, desk lamps, and nightstand lamps are all great examples of how these lamps can be both functional and decorative.
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Flexibility:
Unlike general lighting or even floor lamps, table lamps are simple to install and move whenever and wherever you need. If you like redecorating or rearranging your rooms on a regular basis, a table lamp is a great asset for you to utilise.
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Affordable:
Overhead lighting can be expensive to install and replace, and a high-quality floor lamp isn’t exactly cheap, either. When it comes to indoor lighting options, table lamps are one of the most affordable light sources around. When you shop online for table lamps, we guarantee that you’ll find a range of prices to suit any budget.
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Diverse:
One of the best things about table lamps is that they come in virtually any design, colour, style and size that you can think of. That means you’ll always be able to find one that you like. And, of course, table lamps also offer diverse placement possibilities — but more on that below!
Best Places to Put Your Table Lamps
Who says table lamps have to be relegated to a nightstand or side table? These lamps are one of the most diverse interior lighting elements available and can go places no one would dream of putting a floor lamp or sconce. Here are just a few possible places to put your lamps.
The Living Room
Table lamps for the living room are a classic choice. Whether on a mantle place, side table or console table, these lamps are the ultimate way to add personality to the room. They also help fill in empty spaces in the room and can create a deliciously cosy ambience that makes your house feel more like home.
The Front Entrance/Hallways
Table lamps for hallways are the perfect way to make a statement (and add some light) in an area that doesn’t have much space to spare. When placed near the front entrance, they can also help add a warm and personal vibe to your home that you can feel from the minute you step through the door. As one of the first things you’ll see every day, it’s important that you love your lamp.
The Home Office
Desk lamps are the perfect source of task lighting for your home office, especially if you’ve got to work on projects that require your full attention. We especially love adjustable table lamps in this area.
The Bedroom
Bedside table lamps are a popular choice — after all, what nightstand is complete without a little light source? In this room, table lamps are the perfect source of decoration, mood lighting and task lighting. Their cosy glow can help you unwind after a long day and also provide a gentle source of light for pre-bedtime relaxation activities like reading.
The Kitchen
While it’s probably not the first place you’d think of to put a table lamp, putting some decorative table lamps in the kitchen is not unheard of. A bit of lamp decoration on the countertop or island can help soften and humanise the whole room. It can also work great as a nightlight or even as task lighting.
Shop Lamp Décor and More at The Lighting Outlet
Ready to jump on board the table lamp trend? We thought you would be! Visit our site today to browse our range of wonderful table lamps and other lighting solutions to find the perfect one to add to your home. Have any questions? Reach out to our friendly team today — we’re always happy to help!
Our Best Table Lamps
Most Versatile Table Lamp
The Specs
- Brand: Telbix Lighting
- Available in a chrome or gold finish
- Choice of white or black shade
- Height: 540mm
- Width: 290mm
- Materials: Glass body, metal base, fabric shade
- Wattage: 40w
Price (RRP): $129.00*
*Price may have changed at time of reading
Stunning, versatile and oh-so-beautiful, this Modern Glass Table Lamp has been overwhelmingly voted one of the most versatile table lamps in our collection. It helps diffuse a cosy, cheery glow and has a design that is elegant yet minimal, eye-catching without being overwhelming. Use it in the bedroom, the living room, the hallway, even the kitchen — this lamp is sure to shine no matter where it is.
Best Minimalist Modern Table Lamp
The Specs
- Brand: Telbix Lighting
- Height: 510mm
- Width: 240mm
- Materials: Metal base, linen shade
- Wattage: 40w
Price (RRP): $148.00*
*Price may have changed at time of reading
The minimalist look is all about clean, sleek lines and geometric shapes — something that our Sala Modern Table Lamp clearly has covered. With a sleek nickel finish, well-balanced design and robust light output, this hanging arm style lamp offers a refreshing change from more traditional pieces. If you’re looking for a standout modern table lamp, this is the one to go with.
Most Popular Desk Bankers Table Lamp
The Specs
- Brand: Oriel Lighting
- Available in a chrome, brass or antique brass finish
- Choice of white or green shade
- Height: 400mm
- Width: 270mm
- Materials: Metal base, glass shade
- Wattage: 40w
Price (RRP): $131.00*
*Price may have changed at time of reading
The Bankers Touch Table Lamp makes our best table lamps of 2022 list, thanks to its unique appearance, fabulous functionality and useful features. Its strong downward light provides the perfect task lighting for your desk or workstation, and it’s got a classic design that will fit with almost any style. With its compact size and easy on/off touch feature, this is definitely one of the best bankers lamps you’ll find online.
Best Adjustable Table Lamp
The Specs
- Brand: CLA Lighting
- Dimmable: From 100% to 0%
- Width: 330mm
- Lumens: 300lm
- Colour temperature changes (3 modes): 3000k / 4000k / 5000k
- Wattage: 5w
RRP Price From $111.95*
*Price may have changed at time of reading
If you need an easily adjustable light source to get your work done, look no further than this CLA Lamp. They boast an impactful and classic industrial design as well as a powerful light attached to a heavy base, making them one of the best table lamps for getting work done. The lamp includes touch technology and an adjustable arm to help you get the most out of the fixture.
Best Affordable Table Lamp
The Specs
- Brand: Mercator Lighting
- Available in black, white, navy and pink
- Height: 380mm
- Width: 200mm
- Materials: Metal base, fabric cord
- Wattage: 25w
Price (RRP): $52.40*
*Price may have changed at time of reading
The Lucy Table Lamp is one of our best small lamps for people on a budget. It’s got the classic look that everyone loves and packs a surprising punch for such a small light — all at an incredibly affordable price. So whether you’re using it for your work desk or your reading table to add a little light to a child’s room, this lamp will effortlessly blend into any style and space.
Most Unique Table Lamp
The Specs
- Brand: Mercator Lighting
- Height: 460mm
- Width: 250mm
- Materials: Aluminium and timber base, fabric shade
- Wattage: 40w
Price (RRP): $91.40*
*Price may have changed at time of reading
Sometimes you just want a unique table lamp that complements your unique space — if that’s the case, be sure to check out the Lottie Table Lamp. Made from natural timber and terrazzo, this lamp is a guaranteed conversation starter and the perfect addition to any space. You’ll love the rich warmth that the natural timber brings to the table, the beautiful geometric design and the lovely one-of-a-kind terrazzo base with metallic highlights.
Best Natural Table Lamp
The Specs
- Brand: CLA Lighting
- Height: 330mm
- Width: 300mm
- Materials: Wood base, cloth shade
- Wattage: 40w
Price (RRP): $123.32*
*Price may have changed at time of reading
Looking for a comforting, natural light to make your space feel more welcoming? Our Lotus Table Lamp is a perfect choice. With a gorgeous curving blonde timber base and a soothing white linen shade, this unique table lamp will make a beautiful accent piece for any space. Its compact size makes it ideal for giving smaller areas (such as nightstands, hallway tables and small coffee tables) a warm, relaxing glow.
Best Table Lamp for Commercial Use
The Specs
- Brand: Mercator Lighting
- LED compatible
- Height: 525mm
- Width: 300mm
- Materials: Glass base, aged metal accents, linen shade
- Wattage: 40w
Price (RRP): $142.65*
*Price may have changed at time of reading
Our Classic Brass Table Lamp will look great in any application, be that commercial or residential. This best-seller boasts a modern and refined look with clean lines and an elegant height. The large shade and powerful wattage work together to evenly disperse bright, glare-free light throughout your space. In other words, it’s perfect for any application, from a reception room or office to a hallway or dining area.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How tall should my table lamps be?
If you want to create a cohesive look for your room, then ideally the table lamp should not be 1.5x the table it is on. Also, make sure that your table lamp & table's combined height is no more than 1.6 metres. The same rule can be used for floor lamps, which, in general, shouldn’t exceed 1.6m.
Standard table lamp dimensions vary but are typically between 500mm by 300mm.
How do I make my table lamp look taller?
If your existing table light is a little small but you’d rather not invest in a larger alternative, a creative way to make your table lamp look taller is by using stacked books, or find interesting planters at a garden store. If you’re using your lamp on the floor, you could also go with stone blocks or nice-looking pavers. Being strategic about the plants, furniture or items you place near your light can also help to emphasise it and make it seem bigger.
Do I need to place anything under my table lamp?
This is down to personal preference and the aesthetic you’re trying to achieve. To keep your furniture protected, you can place some non-synthetic material underneath the base of any lamp you own, for example a cotton runner. This will help avoid scratches and other problems that could occur.
What is the difference between a table lamp and a desk lamp?
Table lamps and desk lamps often have many features in common. However, desk lamps are made specifically for lighting up a space on your desk or workspace (task lighting), providing more intense light, often downwards, onto a small space. Desk lamps are often more adjustable. While many table lamps provide task lighting, they are also used for ambient lighting, and tend to be more versatile and used in a greater variety of spaces.
How do I choose a table lamp for my living room?
When choosing a table lamp for your living room, it’s best to choose the location you envisage the lamp being in. If you already have other table or floor lamps in the room, use these to gauge the size and colour you might like. From here, you can start to consider the style and size of your lamp. Browsing images online is often the best way to find what you like, and tools like Pinterest can be very helpful for comparing options. If you’re in need of more guidance, speak to a lighting designer. At The Lighting Outlet, we have three tiers of Lighting Design services with our qualified lighting designers, including a free option. Find out more here.
