How Tall Should a Table Lamp Be?

When searching for a new dazzling table lamp for your home, you’re probably looking for a specific style. Perhaps you’re searching for a certain color or a gorgeous vintage-inspired lampshade.

And even though the style is more than important, it’s crucial to consider the sizing of your lamp. If you pick out a lamp that’s too large for your table, it can easily ruin the balance of your entire home. So how tall should a tall lamp be?

Ideal Table Lamp Measurements

Having your table lamp at your eye level when you sit is ideal. This is the perfect height for a table lamp. But if you’re looking for more exact measurements, it’s usually about 58” to 64” from the floor.

A table lamp shouldn’t be more than 1.5 times taller than the table it’s placed on. One of the best ways to ensure that doesn’t happen is to measure the height of your table before going lamp shopping.

Take the Lampshade Into Consideration

The shape of your lampshade can heavily affect the overall look, as well as the balance of your room. Picking the right lampshade for your room can make a huge difference. 

So when you’re measuring don’t forget to take the height and weight of the lampshade into account. A lampshade should take up a third of a lamp’s height, and it should be twice as wide as the base.

Table Lamps for Every Room

Depending on the room they’re in, table lamps have different functions. And because of their function, you can place them on different surfaces such as tables, desks, or even shelves.

Here are some tips and tricks on how to figure out the best table lamp height for every room.

Living Room Table Lamps

Table lamps in the living room are mostly used to create a softer ambiance. They can be useful when you’re lounging on the sofa or reading. 

Keeping the lamp here at an eye level is the best as it gives you the best lighting for reading, but it’s not too bright because of the lampshade. The ideal size for a living room table lamp is between 24” and 34” usually, but it all depends on the height of your table.

Bedroom Table Lamps

When it comes to bedroom table lamps, you can often see them placed on an end table, or its alternative, besides the bed. Here you’ll likely want softer lighting and an overall cozier mood. After all, it’s a light that’s mostly used for getting ready for bed, so you wouldn’t want anything too harsh on the eyes.

That’s why having a lamp at a chin level when you’re seated on the bed, is perfect for your bedroom.  You should pick out a lamp that’s between 24” and 27” inches tall, depending on your end table.

Office Table Lamps

If you have some office space in your home, you’ll likely need some task lighting. Task lighting is a type of functional, bright lighting that’s perfect for doing any kind of task – be it reading a book, taking notes, or just illuminating your workspace in general.

Here you’re going to want to place your table lamp on a higher spot, or simply pick out a taller table lamp. 30”+ lamps do wonders in this setting. You can even layer lights to create a lovely ambiance.

Make Sure it Matches the Size of the Table

Another important thing is to make sure your lamp fits the table well, otherwise, it can look wonky. Make sure that the lamp, or its shade, doesn’t overhang any edge of the table.

This looks extremely awkward, but it can also be a potential hazard since your lamp can easily tip off and fall.

How to Decorate Around a Table Lamp?

When you have a larger table, you’ll want to decorate the space, as the lamp itself can look a bit bare on its own. But what is the right decor?

The best and easiest thing you can do is to create visual interest by placing items of different heights and shapes. Vases, candles, and figurines can all work pretty well here.

If you want to add an organic touch to your room, and have more table space left, a plant can look lovely next to a table lamp. Just make sure it doesn’t block the light. 

Summary

Figuring out the ideal height of your table lamp might seem confusing at first. But the most important thing to consider is the placement, and the use of your lamp – is it going to be at your bedside table, or do you want some extra lighting on your desk?

When you figure that step out, just make sure to measure everything, so you can know exactly what’s the perfect lamp size for that spot. And then, pick out the lamp of your dreams! Good luck.