A designer table lamp lights a console or bedside table with character. Choose it by location, material and light source: integrated LED or bulb.
Choosing by location
Start with the piece of furniture it will stand on, then choose the silhouette:
- Console table or sideboard: the tallest models, 60 to 80 cm, can be seen from across the room and balance a mirror or painting. Two identical lamps on either side create a symmetrical effect.
- Bedside table: when you sit up in bed, the bottom of the shade should be level with your chin. See also our bedside lamps.
- Shelf or desk: small models under 40 cm create a discreet pool of light. For working, place the lamp on the opposite side to your writing hand.
Designer table lamps: materials and styles
Metal leads the way, in gold, chrome or black, often combined with a glass globe or a fabric shade. Ceramic and plaster lend themselves to sculpted bases and rounded shapes. Plastic and acrylic allow bright colours and light forms. For a natural touch, wood, natural fibres and marble add texture.
In terms of style, modern lamps with clean lines sit alongside Art Deco pieces with geometric shapes, vintage and retro models, and a few Scandinavian or industrial lamps. To match the lamp to the rest of the room, see our guide to matching lights to your furniture.
Integrated LED or bulb
Most designer lamps take a bulb with an E27, E14 or G9 cap depending on the model: you choose its colour temperature and can replace it easily. Integrated LED models are often slimmer; to compare, see our LED table lamps. More ideas for the lounge can be found among our living room table lamps and in all our table lamps.
Frequently asked questions about designer table lamps
What light should I choose for a designer lamp in the living room?
Warm white at 2,700 K creates a relaxed atmosphere in the living room and bedroom alike. A frosted bulb or an opaque diffuser avoids glare when the light source is at eye level. Aim for a CRI of at least 80 for true colours, and a dimmable bulb if the lamp has a dimmer.
What happens when the integrated LED in a designer lamp reaches the end of its life?
Integrated LED generally has a lifespan of 15,000 to 25,000 hours, which means years of everyday use. The product page states whether the LED module can be replaced. If not, the lamp becomes electronic waste: take it to an in-store collection point or a household waste recycling centre so that it can be recycled, rather than putting it in your household rubbish.
How do I clean a ceramic or glass designer lamp?
Unplug the lamp and let the bulb cool. Clean a ceramic or glass base with a soft, slightly damp cloth, then a dry cloth to avoid marks. Avoid abrasive sponges on gold or lacquered finishes, and never wet the lampholder or the switch.
