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Living Room
Lamps
With so many options to choose from, you may be left
confused about which lamp is right for your living room.
There are some factors you need to consider first to
properly assess the advantages and effects of the pieces
you’re eyeing on. Here are a few simple tips on how to
choose the perfect living room lamp that fits your savvy,
style and budget.
Assessing the Lamp
First, check the size of the lamp. If you are planning to
place it on a table, check if it will fit the surface or
that the size is proportional to the table. Very huge
lamps set on rather small tables will distort the
appearance. Lamp shades that extend beyond the total area
of the table are also not recommended. The same goes for
very small lamps and big tables.
Next, check the weight of the lamp base. You need to check
that the lamp will not easily be toppled over. The base
should be proportional to the overall size of the lamp in
order to provide ample support and stability. Cheap lamps
usually have light bases. You can add stones or sand or
fix it on the floor for standalone models to make it
heavier and stable.
Check the wattage of the lamp. How many bulbs does the
lamp have? If you’re planning to add other light sources
in the room, a 25 to 60 watt bulb will usually provide
enough light for an area of the living room. However, if
you’re only using the single lamp to light up the entire
room, you may want to invest in a 100 to 150 watt bulb or
a 3-way bulb. This gives sufficient light for reading or
security purposes.
Check the style of the lamp. If you’re following a certain
theme, you may need to choose the material and design
carefully to match the color and accents of the room. The
material used should also compliment the main theme. A
basic rule is that the lamp base should match the finish
well. The color of the base should also blend well or
create a nice contrast with the lamp shade.
The Lamp Shade
Check the height of the lamp shade. Ideally, the lamp
shade should measure two-thirds the height of the lamp
base. The right proportion will create a nice symmetrical
appearance. The lamp shade should also effectively hide
any hardware and fall properly into the body. As far as
table lamps go, the lamp shade should be at eye level when
you’re seated without exposing the bulb.
Next, check that the width of the lamp shade is one-half
inch or more wider on each side than the base’s widest
point. Very wide lamp shades also tend to take up too much
space so try looking for those measuring the standard 17
to 20 inches.
As for the lamp shade style, it should be thick enough to
properly hide the hardware but thin enough to expose the
light. Very thick lamp shades might require you to use
more wattage to get the right light you need. Opaque lamp
shades are good if you’re only trying to create a dramatic
atmosphere. There are pleated and non-pleated styles as
well while others sport a variety of patterns and colors.
Find the right design that matches your living room. |
