Table Lamps

When you are seated, the bottom of the shade should be roughly at eye level so the bulb stays hidden. On most side tables that means a lamp of 58–75 cm, with table and lamp together measuring around 145–160 cm. On a console or sideboard, a taller lamp of 70–85 cm keeps the proportions balanced.

Sitting up in bed, the bottom of the shade should fall at about chin height, so light reaches the page without shining in your eyes. With a bedside table level with the mattress, a lamp of 50–65 cm usually works. A lamp that is too tall glares, while one too short leaves the page in shadow.

For reading and general light, choose 450–800 lumens. For a mood or accent lamp, 250–450 lumens is enough. Check the lamp's maximum bulb wattage if you use older bulbs, and choose warm white LEDs for living rooms and bedrooms. A dimmable bulb gives flexibility, letting one lamp switch between reading and mood lighting as needed.

Pairs bring symmetry to a bed, console or the ends of a sofa, which feels calm and formal. A single lamp looks more relaxed and personal. Within a room, you can vary the lamp bases but keep the shade colours consistent, so the light looks the same from every lamp.

Lamps sold for the UK come with a fused three-pin plug. Check the switch type, whether inline on the cable, on the base, touch or rotary, and whether the lamp works with a dimmer or smart bulbs. Switches on the base are easiest to reach when the lamp sits beside a sofa or bed.

Good everyday lamps start at around £40–£100, design-led ceramic and glass lamps typically cost £150–£400, and design classics cost more; Kartell table lamps, for example, sell for around £370–£420. As pairs double the cost, invest in one statement lamp and keep the others simpler. A good shade also lifts a simple base.