Floor lamps are extremely versatile light fittings. They can meet basic practical needs or serve as decorative accessories for a space.
They are an ideal solution when renovating or decorating a space, as they can give it a distinctive character.
Before choosing or recommending a floor lamp for a particular space, it is worth considering what the lamp will be used for, as well as the personal taste and decorating style of the space where it will be placed.
What the floor lamp will be used for
The starting point when choosing a floor lamp should therefore undoubtedly be the purpose it is meant to serve.
For example, if the lamp is simply going to be an additional decorative element, a modern, antique or “sculptural” lamp can be a worthwhile choice, and there is no need to worry about the type or wattage of the bulb it takes.
If, however, the floor lamp is going to be used for studying or reading, you are better off choosing a lamp with an adjustable frame (swing arm or gooseneck lamps), so that you can direct the light exactly where you want it.
On the other hand, if the lamp is needed to create atmosphere in a room, choose a floor lamp with a dimmer so that you can adjust the light level.
Once it is clear whether you want to light the whole room, highlight a dark corner or make the lamp the focal point of a space, it will be much easier to pick out the right lamp from the wide range available on the market.
Where the floor lamp will be placed
The spot where the floor lamp will stand has a significant bearing on its size and shape.
It is therefore advisable to know exactly where the lamp will go in the room, so that you can specify or choose the right dimensions for the result you want. You should also take into account power supply constraints and the position of the socket near the chosen location, so that no cables are left exposed.
The decorating style of the space
There are many different styles of floor lamp on the market to suit every decorating style and trend: vintage, Asian, Tiffany, Art Deco, Swedish, retro, contemporary, traditional, Victorian, rustic, tropical, modern and so on.
Light intensity and colour
As is well known, the bulbs a lamp takes make an extremely important difference to the colour and intensity of the light. Traditional incandescent bulbs can give a soft, warmer light, while fluorescent bulbs produce a brighter, cooler light. Halogen lamps also give a particularly strong, vivid light.
Once again, the choice depends on what the floor lamp will be used for.
By clarifying your needs in relation to the factors above, you can choose a floor lamp that is right in terms of both practicality and aesthetics.
