Floor lamps

Height

Between 1.45 and 1.80 m is the usual range, and there is a reason: the shade should sit above the eyes of someone seated — so it does not dazzle — and below those of someone standing.

If it is for reading in an armchair, aim for 1.50 m.

Where to put it

The spot that works best is a corner: it bounces light off two walls and makes the room feel bigger.

Behind a sofa it gives depth and avoids shadows on faces. Beside an armchair, better slightly behind and to one side, not in front.

Shade or arc

A shaded lamp lights its corner: reading light and company.

An arc lamp takes the light over a table or a sofa without touching the ceiling, but it needs a heavy base and a fair amount of clear space.

A tripod asks for about 50 cm clear around it.

How much light

As the main light of a small sitting room, one may be enough, if the shade is open and bounces off the ceiling.

In a large room, two low sources spread out beat one powerful one: spread light is what makes a room look bigger.

Stability

This is the lamp that gets knocked over most. Make sure the base is heavy and wide, especially with children or animals about.

And think about where the cable will run: crossing a walkway is the number one cause of accidents with these lamps.

Before you buy

Measure the clear height of the corner you want it in, allowing for ceiling lights, beams or shelves.

And check whether the switch is on the cable, on the body, or on the wall: you use it several times a day.