When choosing both floor and table lamps, pay attention to the proportions of the shade to its base as well as the proportion of the lamp to your furniture. Linda Holmes, LuxDeco’s creative director, says, “A huge faux pas that many people make when choosing lamps is that they choose ones that are too small. When in doubt, always go bigger. Unless, of course, the lamp has to fit a narrow console table. In that case, always measure.”
There are lots of other considerations when it comes to shades too. Hardware should always be covered by a shade—unsightly hardware look silly and ruins the aesthetic. Textures can also alter the look of a lamp especially when lit—for example, rougher linen designs will create a different light than a glossy satin shade.
If the light in your room relies heavily on mood lighting, paler tones are best to allow as much light to shine through; a darker shade is great if you’re going for a moody, atmospheric look. Silver or gold linings are the best for replicating a luxurious glow.
5. Accent Lighting
Similar to task lighting, accent lighting has a particular function and is any lighting which has specifically been included to highlight a particular feature in a room.
Spotlights which highlight artwork, sculptures and objets in cabinets or on pedestals are examples of accent lighting which enhance the pieces and prevent them from being lost in an under-illuminated space.
Similar to task lighting, because of its nature, accent lighting needs more lumens (the light output)—at least three times as much—and therefore requires a higher wattage.