10 Lighting Styles You Need To Know In Interior Design

Channelling a less-is-more look, the tripod lamp knows how to make a cool, understated impression. These designs stand simply on three legs and often usher a mid-century or modern vibe. A svelte structure means they don’t overpower spaces (perfect for compact interiors), but they certainly supply stacks of style.

Go-to Brands: LuxDeco, Visual Comfort & Co.

"Tripods have an effortless appeal. Consider using them on a sideboard or bedside if you're looking for a more delicate alternative to the traditional table lamp."

An instant way to give your space an edge (quite literally), urchin lights are the ultimate statement-maker. Chandelier, ceiling flush or table lamp, you can find variations on this style to complement different rooms. Take advantage of their spiky silhouette to draw attention to high ceilings or to add a dose of drama to an understated interior.

Go-to Brands: Eichholtz

"I love urchin lights – they look incredible above a grand staircase or modern dining table. Avoid placing in small interiors or rooms with several statement pieces."

Introducing the cantilever lamp a.k.a the ultimate desk companion. These sleek, angular styles have an architectural charm and are fully adjustable, so you can direct light exactly where you want it. Add a polished touch with high-shine stainless steel designs or tap into an antique mood with aged brass alternatives.

Go-to Brands: LuxDeco, Kelly Wearstler

"Go for cantilevers to bring maximum form and function to your office or favourite reading corner. I like to balance their super-sleek profiles with highly textured desk accessories."

For lovers of brave, bold interior design, installation lights are your answer. As much an art feature as a source of light, these large-scale creations are designed to steal the show. Give your space gallery appeal with striking sculptural suspension styles crafted in highly reflective materials that promise a captivating light show.

Go-to Brands: Luxxu, Eichholtz

"Installations blur the lines between art and functional design. Use them in entranceways or dining rooms – anywhere you really want to make an impression."

Slim and ornate, candlestick designs offer a classical look with finesse. As the name suggests, they take style cues from traditional candlesticks and are usually crafted with metal bases, then topped with the most elegant of silk shades. When it comes to styling, these designs call to be placed in a decorative bedroom, living room or hallway.

Go-to Brands: Pieter Adam, Eichholtz

Look to candlestick lamps to enhance formal settings. A well-chosen set will finish off a console display with an air of French elegance.

A unique objet d’art and light in one, sculptural designs are the perfect way to give your space an artistic identity. The beauty of these styles is that they really come in all sorts, shapes and sizes – from smooth, symmetrical structures to irregular profiles. We love them on a modern beside or console table.

Go-to Brands: Marioni, Villa Lumi

For texture and shape, you can always rely on sculptural designs to deliver. Team yours with a few sculptural tabletop accents for cohesive styling.

Modern interpretations of the traditional candle-filled lantern make a timeless choice. Characterised by a metal frame, glass panels and a hook and chain, these designs have entered iconic territory. Rustic-looking and highly durable, they make a good fit in industrial-style interiors, porchways and outdoor areas (so long as your light has a minimum IP rating of IP44).

Go-to Brands: Eichhotlz, LuxDeco

"My favourite way to style lanterns is by positioning multiple designs down a long hallway – you can’t beat this look."

Nod to nature's interesting shapes with a gourd design. Traditionally gourd fruits were used as water vessels, inspiring ceramic potters to model their bottles on the organic shape. This curving silhouette then became popular for Chinese porcelain vases and, eventually, for lamp bases. Whether you opt for a simple block-colour or a patterned design, this voluptuous number always remain a classic.

Go-to Brands: AERIN, John-Richard

So, so versatile, gourds will soften your bedroom or living space perfectly. They’re also brilliant for adding volume or a quirky feel."

Tall and versatile, pillar lamps make an effortless addition to any room. Why do we love them so much? They can take on a classic or contemporary attitude, and come in rounded or angular forms. Use their monolithic vibe to bring a sense of strength and simplicity to your space.

Go-to Brands: Villa Lumi, AERIN, Eichholtz

"I love a chunky pillar lamp styled on a skinny console table; the contrast between the two is so powerful."

Some styles just never get old; the urn is the poster child for truly timeless design. Traditionally, these shapely styles are crafted with a porcelain or ceramic base that’s hand-decorated with beautiful detailing. Floral and Oriental motifs can be typically found in white and blues hues. Embrace the design to bring a historic element to your interior.

Go-to Brands: Eichhotlz

Think about using urn lamps to bring a classic touch to a contemporary living space. Traditional Chinese table designs look beautiful in a blue room scheme.