Choosing a floor lamp: arc lamp, reading lamp or mood lamp
A floor lamp is the easiest way to add light: no drilling, no connection point, and you move it along when the room changes. But there is a big difference between a lamp that lights a corner and a lamp that spans a table.
The arc lamp
An arc lamp stands beside the sofa or table and curves over it with a long arm. That gives you the effect of a pendant lamp, without a ceiling point.
- Above the dining table: keep the bottom of the shade 75 to 85 centimetres above the top, just as with a pendant lamp.
- Above the sofa or coffee table: well above head height when seated, so you do not look into it.
- The base: a heavy base, often marble or stone, keeps the long arm balanced. The further the arc reaches, the heavier the base must be.
- The space: measure beforehand how far the arc reaches and how high it goes. An arc lamp needs air and works less well under a low ceiling.
The reading lamp
Focused light on the book, diagonally behind your shoulder. The bottom of the shade should be at about eye level when seated, roughly 120 to 140 centimetres. For comfortable reading you want around 400 to 500 lumens on the page. More in lighting a reading corner: floor lamp or wall light.
The uplighter
An uplighter shines against the ceiling, which reflects the light softly. It gives a lot of general light without glare, ideal in a room with a white ceiling and no ceiling light.
The mood lamp
A floor lamp with a fabric shade or glass globes gives soft, diffuse light in a corner or beside a cabinet. It does little for reading, but a lot for the evening. This type makes the difference between a room that is lit and a room that feels warm; see how lighting creates atmosphere at home.
Where to put the floor lamp?
In the corners of the room. That is exactly where light is missing when there is only a ceiling light. A floor lamp in a dark corner makes a room feel larger and calmer. Think in three heights: ceiling, eye level and low near the floor. See why one lamp in the living room is not enough.
What to look for
- Stability: a heavy base, especially with children or pets.
- Switch: a foot switch or cord dimmer lets you operate it without bending.
- Light colour: warm white, 2700 to 3000 kelvin, for the living room.
- Cable: choose a spot close to a socket so the cable does not run across the room.
Frequently asked questions
How high should an arc lamp hang above the dining table?
The bottom of the shade 75 to 85 centimetres above the table top.
How many floor lamps do I need in the living room?
In an average living room one or two, complemented by a ceiling light or wall lights.
View our floor lamps, or see them in our showroom in Arnhem.
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