The 100: Lamps

On my growing list of 100 “must have” items that will help transform a house into a home: LAMPS. They truly do light up our houses and make them feel like homes.

When it comes to lighting, the general rule of thumb that I follow is that you should have as much light coming from the floor as you do from the ceiling. That means both table and floor lamps are key to make rooms feel warm and inviting.

What’s popular now are glass base lamps. You will find them in beautiful colors like these Optic Sea Glass lamps from Crate and Barrel {above} or clear like this one from Ballard Designs {I love it paired with the sea grass shade!}

I’m also seeing some Mercury glass lamps out there but so far, they are still pretty expensive. I’m sure at some point we will see them at TJ Maxx, Home Goods & Marshalls.

We’re also seeing lamps with great texture {think wood, paper} and some wonderfully-graphic/architectural shapes. Updating your light fixtures is one of the quickest ways to give a room a facelift.

We’ve talked a bit about what’s hot . . . but sometimes it helps to know what’s NOT. Take a look at this blue specimen. I have also seen it in burgundy, hunter green, pink, etc.

If you have any of these around, you can go ahead and chuck the pleated shade. Spray paint the entire lamp base (silver/brass and all) and you will give it a whole new life in this century!

Pleated shades are generally out, texture (linen, burlap, silk) are in. Cone-shaped shades are still out there but short/shallow drum shades are really where it’s at.

One last little rule I follow on table/floor lamps. Arrange them in your room so they are connected by an imaginary triangle. This placement creates a balance in the room and helps to create that perfect warm & inviting look we all love.