Bedside lamps are not just a functional item; they also play an important role in setting the mood and tone of your bedroom. They can be a key element of your room’s aesthetic and help you achieve a cozy, restful atmosphere after a long day of work or leisure.
You can find an endless number of lamps for your bedroom, each designed to suit a particular use or to fit a specific decorative style. But it is always important to consider how you use this space before you purchase a lamp.
Depending on the size and design of your bedroom, one or two table lamps might be enough. But if your bedroom is larger, you might need an additional fixture in the form of a floor lamp.
Another option is to place a lamp on the dresser or armoire in addition to the nightstand. This frees up floor space in your bedroom, and it can add a dramatic touch.
Choose a Lamp that Balances the Height of Your Bed and Nightstand
The light from your lamp should be at a comfortable height when you sit up in bed to read or write. This is especially important if you have a low-profile nightstand or you’re using the lamp for both purposes.
It is also essential that the lighting from your bedside lamp is soft, allowing you to read without straining your eyes. You can find lamps that provide this soft glow in a variety of sizes, styles and colors.
Opaque Shades Can Cut Glare
Ideally, the glare from your reading lamp should not be in your eyes when you’re lying down or sleeping in bed. This is particularly true if your bedside lamp has a wide shade, which will diffuse the light and create a soothing atmosphere.
If you have a large bed, two lamps can be a good idea; this provides a better balance and makes it easier to see your partner when they’re lying in bed next to you. A pair of sconces can also be helpful to focus the light on specific areas of your bedside.
Wall-Mounted Designs Are Convenient
Some wall-mounted designs are adjustable so you can change the direction and height of the lights to suit your changing needs. These are ideal for people who share a bed and rest at different heights or for those who want to place a lamp next to their bed but don’t have a nightstand.
These wall-mounted options come in both traditional and modern styles. And some have the added convenience of a swing-arm, which means they can be adjusted to accommodate a range of reading positions.
The right lamp can make all the difference to your sleep. Here are some things to consider when you’re shopping for the perfect bedside lamp:
Size and Shape
A great way to avoid a lamp that’s too small is to choose one that matches the dimensions of your nightstand. Try a tall lamp with an oval or rectangular shade for a modern look, or a shorter lamp with an angled or round shade for an antiqued effect.