By James Batten, 299 Lighting · Published · Updated
In short
Choose a table lamp whose shade bottom sits at eye level when seated (about 100–110 cm from the floor), place floor lamps beside or slightly behind seating, and use lamps to light corners the ceiling light misses.
Lamps are the quickest way to change how a room feels, with no electrician needed. The trick is getting the proportions and positions right.
Table lamp size
When seated, you should not see the bulb under the shade. For most sofas and side tables, the bottom of the shade should be about 100–110 cm from the floor. As a rule, the lamp should be no taller than one and a half times the height of the table it sits on.
Floor lamp placement
- Put reading floor lamps beside or just behind the chair, on the side of your reading hand.
- Arc floor lamps should reach the centre of a coffee table with the shade 2–2.1 m from the floor at its highest point.
- Uplighting floor lamps bounce light off the ceiling and suit rooms without ceiling lights.
Light the corners
Dark corners make a room feel smaller. A lamp in each far corner, plus one near the seating, is the simplest layered scheme. Browse floor lamps and table lamps.
Shades and output
Fabric and opal shades give a soft glow; metal shades push light down for reading. For most lamps, a 2700K bulb of 400–800 lumens works well. See our bulb guide.
Hotels and show homes
Lamps are often the finishing touch in hotel rooms and show homes. Ask 299 Lighting about project quantities and delivery.
Frequently asked questions
How tall should a table lamp be?
Usually 60–80 cm, with the shade bottom at about eye level when seated.
Where should a floor lamp go?
Beside or slightly behind a chair or sofa, or in a dark corner.
What bulb should I use in a lamp?
A 2700K LED with 400–800 lumens, matched to the cap on the fitting page.
