Floor Lamps

Floor lamps are often the heroes of residential lighting schemes, standing proudly while providing task or feature lighting. A particularly versatile addition to any room, designer floor lamps are a sought after object, especially for living rooms - where a distinct design aesthetic is often the desired outcome - and bedrooms where task lighting is combined with a relaxed, cosy style of decor.

How to choose a floor lamp

The overarching principle of floor lamps is that they stand independently on the floor with a stem extending from a sturdy base that holds a light source - either be direct or diffused. However, despite the basic makeup of the floor lamp, there is a huge variety available in terms of material, style and function - from the tripod lamp to the raw aesthetic style and the intricately detailed. 

Floor standing lamps can be used for ambient or task light. Ambient floor lamps are designed to provide general light to a room, rather than highly targeted task lighting. Often, ambient floor lamps incorporate a lamp shade. They may provide enough additional light for tasks in the immediate vicinity such as reading, but are not designed for this purpose. 

Floor lamps designed as task lighting serve a different purpose. These types of lamps are often designed to be versatile, with movable arms or stem components allowing for the light to be moved and directed to a specific area, such as a desk. 

The primary consideration when choosing a floor lamp should be the type of lighting required. This initial requirement will narrow down the options and help inform the next choices, including materiality, height, colour and aesthetic value. For example, a large, highly intricate wooden floor lamp may not be the best choice for task lighting where the lamp would need to be moved or directed to obtain the best functionality from it. Rather, this style of the lamp may be best suited to ambient lighting and become one of the overall visual features of the room. 

In industrial and commercial settings, lamps can offer an additional layer of design, highlighting objects of interest or providing task lighting in workspaces or retail settings. 

With options in metal, wood, stone, ceramic and even paper, and ranging from clean white to stained glass and everywhere in between, there are floor lamps to suit every style and preference. As a design statement and as a practical and versatile lighting solution, floor lamps are a must have for every home.

How can a floor standing lamps enhance my décor?

A floor standing lamp will truly enhance your personal décor, be it in your lounge, dining room, office, bedroom or hallway. The huge variety of standing lamps on the market caters to every décor theme imaginable. For example, a bare Edison bulb on a cast iron stand will make for an eye-catching industrial floor lamp, while classic wooden floor lamps will nicely complement a farmhouse setting – or a traditional living space. Tiffany-style glass lamps will add flamboyance to any room, while there are plenty of contemporary options to choose from, offering neutral colours and sleek lines.

How to style designer floor lamps

A designer floor lamp will make a statement wherever it is placed. For immediate effect, place it in the entrance or hallway to dazzle your guests as they arrive, and create ambience in an otherwise ordinary area. In your living space or dining room, an antique, exotic or rustic lamp will add character and mood lighting, capping off your furniture suite perfectly. Or in the bedroom, whether in pride of place beside the bed or providing extra light to a walk-in wardrobe or vanity, a designer lamp will add glamour to your personal space and the chance to enjoy it every single day.

Also, consider adjustability when purchasing a floor lamp – lamps are not necessarily ‘one-size fits all’ and having the option to change the height and direction of a lamp can open up a plethora of lighting functions and opportunities.

The beauty of the tripod floor lamp

Tripod lamps offer a sense of purpose, stability and make a strong statement of ownership of a room. Alternatively, an arching floor lamp, with a long arm reaching out over a recliner, desk or side table will prove an artistic addition – and a talking point.  

View more: 5 Creative ways to light up your bedroom