Let There Be Light: Tips for Using Floor Lamps

Got a lot of shadows, but not a lot of space? The vertical illumination provided by floor lamps provides the light you need without taking up a lot of room. Today’s standing lamps are much better designed than those of past decades, with sturdy, non-tip bases and heat-safe shades. When choosing a floor lamp, consider the following:

• What purpose will it serve? Do you need a lamp that will illuminate an entire space, or should it provide targeted light for a specific activity? Torchiere floor lamps, designed with inverted “V”-shaped shades, are a popular choice for banishing shadows in corners. There are also lamps with adjustable necks that allow you to direct the lighting to meet your needs, ideal for reading or sewing.
• What’s your décor style? If your space is more contemporary, you may prefer lamps made from glass, steel, or metal, with cutting-edge angles and designs. For traditional rooms, you may want to choose an oak wood lamp with a conservative shade. You’ll also find antiqued Old-World lamps with intricate scrollwork and stained-glass shades.
• Where will the lamp live? Choose a space that will provide maximum lighting without getting in the way of foot traffic. You’ll also need to decide how you’ll operate the lamp—ideally, it should be controlled by a convenient light switch or dimmer.