There are few things as important as lighting, especially when it comes to the interior of your home.
Maybe you’ve already experienced this firsthand, but the right lighting can make or break the ambiance of a room. Having optimal lighting has even been shown to help improve your mood, so why not spend the extra time to get it right? There are many types of lamps to choose from, and your perfect model is sure to be out there.
No matter what your decorating style is, no room is complete without the right lamp to illuminate it. Keep reading to learn all about the different types of lamps, and what could work best for your home.
Floor Lamps
Floor lamps make up the most common types of lamps because of their versatile style and functionality. These kinds of lamps are designed to sit on the floor and provide light wherever you need it.
Column Floor Lamps
Column floor lamps are one of the best types of lamps to choose from if you’re looking for ambient lighting. Rather than lighting from a single, bright source, these lamps feature a tall shade that disperses the light upwards throughout a tall column. These are typically dimmer than other styles of floor lamps, making them an ideal choice for entertainment areas.
Tree Floor Lamps
Some types of lamps in the floor lamp category can branch off, featuring multiple light sources in a single fixture. These are known as “tree” style floor lamps, and are named after the different “branches” of light on a single lamp.
Tree floor lamps often feature a few different styles of lighting on a single lamp. One might be brighter, whereas the others are dimmer and give off a more ambient effect. These are designed to be an all-in-one lighting solution that works great for living rooms, studies, and other multi-purpose areas in the home.
Arc Floor Lamps
When you need overhead light, but aren’t looking to add a chandelier or similar ceiling-mounted light fixture, the arc floor lamp can present a great alternative. These types of lamps are characterized by their long, slender base that abruptly curves downward for gentle widespread illumination.
Table Lamps
Table lamps are smaller than floor lamps and can come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. They are meant to sit on a table, whether it’s the end tables in a living room or the night tables in a bedroom. They can take up more space than floor lamps, but many varieties can provide beautiful, ambient lighting that makes it worthwhile.
Task Lamps
Technically, a task lamp could also fall into the “floor lamp” or “table lamp” category, but given its specific purpose, it deserves a category all on its own. These types of lamps are less about ambiance and more about function, typically providing beams of bright light that are focused on a single area.
Gooseneck Task Lamp
The gooseneck style of task lamp is one of the most popular types of lamps for this category, and it’s not difficult to see why. Just as the name suggests, these lamp styles feature a long, bendy neck attached to a base. The neck allows you to manipulate the lamp and focus the light right where you need it.
The adjustable neck makes these lamps ideal for reading, working, and any other activities that might require a focused beam of light. You might see a tabletop task lamp on a desk or a workbench, ready to provide the user with bright light when it is needed.
Generally, task lamps are a form of secondary lighting: that is, they are only illuminated and used where they are needed. This is because they are often quite bright and can be harsh on the eyes if left on for extended periods of time. In most cases, a simple floor lamp or table lamp is the primary source of light for the room, whereas the task lamp is only used as needed.
“Banker” or “Piano” Task Lamp
The “banker” or “piano” style of task lamp has an unmistakable vintage charm that works well in studies and work areas throughout the home. These are horizontally elongated and often feature either a pull-chain switch or flip switch.
Clip-On Task Lamp
Often very bright, clip-on task lamps are designed for the most labor-intensive tasks that require total illumination. These are best for garages and studios where you need to be sure that your work area is lit completely.
Chandeliers
Chandeliers are an all-inclusive category of overhead lights that can vary greatly in style and functionality. What these types of lamps have in common is their overhead style that is wired directly into the ceiling. Their setup is quite a bit more complicated than more basic lamp styles, but they usually carry a “wow” factor that makes them worth the extra trouble.
Where to Find Different Types of Lamps
As you’ve probably noticed by the sheer amount of lamp options out there, there isn’t a universal lamp that will suit every home and style preference. To find the best lamp styles for you, you may have to explore what’s out there before making any big decisions.
Of course, you can find simple models at big-box retailers and home goods stores. Or, for something more unique, you could even check out thrift shops and antique stores in your area. You might find something you love where you least expect to find it.
If you’re not up for the hunt, don’t worry! If you’ve found a style you like in this article, then you can just search for it online. Pagazzi.com and other retailers offer so many styles to choose from, you’ll surely find something that works for you and your home.
Choosing the Right Lamp Styles
Lighting is a crucial element to the overall ambiance of your home, and it’s worth thinking about. Now that you know more about the different types of lamps available, you’ll be ready to select what works best for your home’s decor.
For more topics, check out our other articles.
