Tips to Buy the Perfect Table Lamp

Whether a table lamp is for practical use or decorative flair, it’s important to choose the right one for the right application. A table lamp should be proportional to the space it’s occupying and complement your existing decor. At Connecticut Lighting Centers, we have hundreds of lamps on display in both our showrooms. What should you know about table lamps to make an informed purchase decision?

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Choosing Lamp Height & Width

Modern living room a chandelier and table lampTable lamp height is a combination of the shade and base vertical measurements. The general rule of thumb is to add 18 inches to the lamp shade height to determine the right size lamp base. For instance, let’s consider a lamp shade that measures 8 inches tall. A lamp base that’s at least 26 inches tall would be the ideal proportions.

The width rule is more simple. Select a lamp base and shade that is more narrow than the table it’s on. If the lamp shade extends beyond the sides of the table, this area of the room will look disproportionate. You are also more likely to bump into a protruding lamp shade.

Finding a Comfortable Placement

Once you decide where the lamp is going in a room – on a desk, next to the couch or by the bed – consider your eye level when sitting or lying down near it. When you are sitting down in a chair reading a book, you will want the bottom of the lamp shade to be in line with your eyes. While reading a book in bed, the bottom of the lamp shade should be about chin level. These placements prevent light from shining directly into your eyes.

Selecting a Light Bulb

At Connecticut Lighting Centers, we are all about energy-efficiency and ease of use! We recommend using LED bulbs compatible with your table lamps to save on energy consumption and cost. With LED technology, you will also change the light bulb less often. A dimmable LED bulb offers even more control over your home comfort. Dim the lights while watching TV or increase the amount of general illumination when doing a crossword puzzle.
 
Connecticut Lighting Centers and our sister store, Restoration Lighting Gallery, have an extensive inventory of different table lamps and shades. Visit our Hartford or Southington showroom today!

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