Lamps provide infinite lighting options when it comes to interior decoration, especially after the pictures of Prince William and Duchess Kate’s apartment showing their preference for different types of lamps and shades to illuminate spaces, instead of wall lights or sconces. Lamps, when used appropriately, can provide sufficient lighting and set the mood for any room beautifully. Here are some ways in which you can furnish your interiors using different types of lamps.

Table lamp

The right shape, size and colour of table lamps can create harmony and complement your interior decor. Mostly used in pairs in drawing rooms, they provide uninterrupted, bright light within a certain radius, making visibility of objects within that radius quite clear. The light reflecting from the objects outside the defined radii is often dim but soft, creating a warm ambiance. Consider table lamps as jewellery for your room and try to match the colour of the shade with that of the accessories kept in the drawing room, like drapery, wall hangings and other decoration pieces.

Since table lamps come in various shapes and sizes, you can keep a small and colourful one on a table next to your laptop or photo frames. A larger one can be placed on the bedside table in your bedroom for reading purposes.

Create a new room every night with the right lighting

Floor lamp

If you wish to add a touch of drama and creativity to your living room, the best way is to use a sleek floor lamp in the room. It doesn’t necessarily have to be kept in a corner; you can place it directly behind a couch or a sofa and enjoy the brilliant spot light, while the rest of the room can stay considerably mellow. You can mix and match the colour and shape of the base and the shade to break the monotony, for example, if the base is black, an orange bucket-shaped shade would look great. Similarly, pair a white base with a shade in red / blue or vice versa to liven up your room.

Alternatively, place a huge, statement floor lamp in a corner of the room. Choose a neutral base, but match the colour of the shade with the colour of your sofas or couch to create a sense of serenity. Don’t forget to place your settee opposite the floor lamp, so the two can balance the room.

Reading lamp

You probably had one in your room during your school days! A reading or desk lamp provides ample illumination at a certain angle to prevent your eyes from straining in the dark. It comes quite handy when you want to navigate your way in the dark or wish to read at night without disturbing your partner. An ideal way to incorporate this item in your bedroom or study is to exclusively deploy it at a small side table. Try not to clutter the table with other objects otherwise you will spoil the splendour of this useful object. If possible, buy a reading lamp in loud colours, for example, red, green, yellow or fuchsia so that it stands out from other accessories and can add a playful touch to your room.

Hanging lamps

Hanging lanterns are mostly found in restaurants and cafes. That’s because we are more into using chandeliers, wall sconces and bare energy savers at homes instead of opting for this stylish alternative. The hanging lamps are cheaper than chandeliers and work best in a combination of table and floor lamps. Try hanging more than one pendant lamp, and suspend them at different heights so that they offer a visual mix. Also, various levels of lighting will create a symphonic effect on the surroundings.

If the walls of your home are pastel in colour, then opt for shades which are bright in colour or have unique shapes. When lit, the bold hues and interesting shapes will revitalise the atmosphere.

Lamps are usually at the very bottom of one’s list of decoration items. But they can add vibrancy and life to any room in your home. Experiment with a few lamps and witness the wonderful change in your room decor.

Published in Dawn, Sunday Magazine, June 5th, 2016