Floor lamps are one of the easiest ways to add extra lighting without needing electrical work, and they come in several popular styles:
Task Floor Lamps Designed for reading, studying, or close-up activities, task floor lamps usually include an adjustable arm or head so you can direct light exactly where you need it.
Tripod Floor Lamps Tripod floor lamps feature a three-legged base and are often used as accent lighting. They suit a wide range of interiors, from modern minimalist spaces to more traditional rooms.
Shaded Floor Lamps These provide a soft, ambient glow (similar to a table lamp, just taller). Shades are commonly made from fabric, glass, or metal, and help create a cosy atmosphere.
Two-Light Floor Lamps Two-light floor lamps include two separate light sources—often adjustable—so they can provide both ambient light and task light in one fixture.
What should you consider when buying a floor lamp?
Choosing the right floor lamp comes down to a few key factors:
Purpose Decide what role the lamp will play:
Task lighting (focused light)
Ambient lighting (general room lighting)
Accent lighting (highlighting style or features)
Style Pick a design that suits your room, whether that’s modern, traditional, minimalist, or something more decorative.
Size Think about how the lamp will fit into the space—tall and slim lamps are great for tight corners, while shorter or wider designs can feel more grounded in open spaces.
Material Floor lamps come in finishes like metal, timber, marble-look, and more. Choose something durable that also matches your decor.
Light bulbs Check bulb type and compatibility, including:
colour temperature (warm vs cool)
wattage or brightness (lumens)
energy efficiency (LED recommended)
What would be the ideal location for placing floor lamps in the living room?
Floor lamps are extremely flexible and can improve both lighting and layout.
Behind the couch A classic spot—especially if you want reading light over your shoulder and the couch sits away from the wall.
In a corner Perfect for brightening dark corners and reflecting light off two walls for a softer, more even effect.
Next to a desk Great for task lighting if you work or read in your living room—especially when paired with an adjustable lamp head.
Behind or beside the TV This can help reduce glare and eye strain, especially at night, by adding soft background light.
In the middle of the room Ideal for larger living rooms where furniture sits away from walls. If you do this, consider a floor power outlet to avoid extension cords.
Is it acceptable to have two different floor lamps in the same room?
Yes—absolutely.
A single floor lamp can help balance a room visually (especially if one side feels heavier or darker). A pair of floor lamps can create symmetry or highlight key features like windows, artwork, or a mantle.
If your two floor lamps don’t match, the best approach is to make sure they still work together through:
similar colours/finishes
matching shade shapes
a shared design style (even if not identical)
This creates an intentional “eclectic but cohesive” look rather than a clashing one.
How do I choose the right height for a floor lamp in my living room?
A good general height range for floor lamps is 145cm to 165cm, as this suits the seated eye level of most people.
For comfort: Aim for the bottom of the lampshade to sit at or slightly above eye level when seated. This helps avoid glare and creates a softer, more functional lighting setup.
How does my living room’s scale affect the best floor lamp choice?
Room scale matters, especially ceiling height:
In a room with a low ceiling, an overly tall floor lamp can look out of proportion.
In a room with high ceilings, a lamp that’s too short may look “lost” and provide less effective lighting.
A quick tip: measure your ceiling height and choose a lamp that feels balanced—big enough to fill the space without dominating it.
How can a floor lamp complement my living room’s decor and design?
Floor lamps can blend in—or become a feature.
You can match materials and finishes such as:
brass or gold tones for warm, luxe styling
timber bases for natural or Scandinavian interiors
marble-look finishes for modern elegance
They’re also great for creating styled zones like a reading nook (lamp + armchair + side table). Just make sure placement doesn’t block movement pathways or interrupt sight lines between seating.