" Picking The Right Lamp"

If you only think of lamps as functional pieces that keep you from stumbling around in the dark, it's time for a new perspective. Just like the artwork on your walls and accents on your console, lamps are wonderful decorating tools that can infuse your home with personality and give it great character. You'll be amazed by how replacing an out of style or worn lamp with one that reflects today's clean lines and bold look will completely change a room. Here are a few tips for picking a lamp that will brighten your home for years to come.

To help you pick the perfect one, first determine how the lamp will be used. Do you need the lamp for lighting or to provide ambiance? Next, decide what colors, shapes and finishes you're attracted to. How about the lamp shade? Do you prefer dark shades, with their dramatic look, or light shades that add a bit of a sunny feel? What shapes excite you? Oval, rectangle, square, round?

When choosing lamps to put next to a sofa, consider the height of your end tables, 30 inches in height is standard, so your lamp should be no taller than 28 inches so that when you sit down you are no looking up into a light bulb. If your table is lower than 30 inches, you should use a taller lamp.

When sitting in a bed or a chair, the bottom of the shade should be lower than eye level, remember you never want to see the harp of your lamp.

The best light comes from parchment or off-white colored shades; these will give you a nice uniform light, whereas a dark colored shade will only give off light through the top and bottom.

Taller candlestick lamps are a must have on a buffet.

I like to tuck small lamps into bookshelves to add a little texture, as well as placing them in a bit more unusual places like a serving cart or on a small table in a bathroom for a night light.

This adorable turtle lamp will add a bit of whimsy to the room.

When picking lamps for a room, resist the urge to make them all match. Instead, walk on the wild side and mix them up. Pull together an assortment of shapes, styles, materials, colors and dimensions.

"Bigger is better" is usually a good rule of thumb when selecting a lamp, but you still want to use common sense. If your table is small, or if the lamp will be paired with very fine, delicate furniture, you will want one that is small enough to harmonize, not take over.
Hope these few tips will help you add new life to your room.