Lamp Lighting Basics

Lighting can make a big difference in the look and feel of your home instantly. It can make a small room look open and airy, and large rooms appear warm, cozy and inviting. It can create a stimulating atmosphere for a night of entertaining, or a quiet feeling of relaxation after a long, tiring day. In so many ways, lighting makes a difference; for task performance, safety and security. It’s simple and inexpensive.

Portable Lighting comes in many forms. They are plug-in lights designed to be placed around the home and moved at will, allowing flexibility in design.

Table Lamps are typically used as reading lights, to accent dark corners of a room, or used on an end table or buffet. They generally cast an omni-directional, unfocused light.

Desk Lamps are specifically designed to illuminate a smaller area more intensely, such as desks or workspace areas. The light source should be placed about 15 inches above the surface of the desk.

Armed Lamps have movable arms to direct light where needed. They are specifically designed to illuminate a smaller area more intensely, such as desks or workspace areas. They mount directly to a wall and can be hard-wired or plugged in and some offer decorative cord covers to match it’s finish. These types of lamps make great alternatives to bedside table lamps without taking up space.

Floor Lamps provide ample task lighting for reading, sewing etc. They should be free of distracting glare and shadows. They are also used to accent dark corners of a room or for task lighting by an end table. They generally cast an omni-directional, unfocused light and are perfect for complimenting a favorite sofa or chair.

Torchieres are floor lamps which direct light upwards. Torchieres are for ambient,general and accent lighting. They are most commonly used in corners or areas with higher ceilings.

Shade Selection:

Since task lighting is essential for reading or doing detailed work. A solid colored shade controls the direction of the light, allowing very little light to go upward, and a lot of the light stays filtered and focused down below and with this directed, higher-intensity light; a downward reading lamp such as floor and table lamps, directs light over the shoulder of the reader. Be careful not to place the source of light behind the person's head so as to avoid shadows on the book or magazine.

Placement Tips:

It's important where you place your lights. Create pools of light and dark around the room. It's the shadows we're drawn to, and the pools of light we take comfort in. Lamp light from the midpoint of the room is most important for balance and effect.