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How Big Should My Lamp Be? Choose the Correct Lamp Size Guide

Lighting can make or break a room’s ambiance, and choosing the right size table lamp is key to achieving that perfect balance of style and functionality. But let’s face it—figuring out how big your lamp should be can feel overwhelming. Luckily, we’ve broken down the science of lamp selection into simple, actionable tips to help you find the ideal lamp size for any room in your home!

General Guidelines for Lamp Sizing

Before diving into specific rooms, let’s cover some general rules of thumb to guide your lamp selection:

  • Height Matters: A lamp should be no taller than 1.5 times the height of the table or surface it sits on.
  • Shade Proportions: The diameter of the lamp shade should always be smaller than the width of the table. You don’t want a shade that sticks out awkwardly over the edge.
  • Base-to-Shade Ratio: For a balanced look, choose a shade with a diameter that’s within two inches of the base’s length. For example, if your lamp base is 12 inches tall, aim for a shade diameter between 10 and 14 inches.
  • Shade Height: The shade height should be about 65–90% of the base height (about one third of the fixture's total height). This ensures the lamp looks proportional.

Now that you’ve got the basics, let’s explore how these tips apply to specific spaces in your home.

Living Room: Cozy Yet Functional Lighting

The living room is where you relax, read, or entertain guests, so your lighting should create a warm and inviting atmosphere while being practical. Here's how to select your lamp:

Living room table lamp size graphic

Sofa Side Table Lamp Tips

  • Height Rule: Multiply your table height by 1.5 to find your maximum table lamp height. For example, if your table is 28.5 inches tall, your lamp should be no taller than 42.75 inches.
  • Shade Size: If your lamp base is 14.5 inches tall, choose a shade with a diameter between 12.5 and 16.5 inches.
  • Proportions: The shade height should be about 80% of the base height for a balanced look.

Pro Tip: When sitting on your sofa, the bottom of the lamp shade should align with eye level to avoid glare and ensure comfortable lighting.

Ideal Lamp Size for Living Rooms:

Bedroom: Relaxing and Practical Lighting

In the bedroom, table lamps are most often found on nightstands and bedside tables. Your bedroom lighting should be soothing yet functional enough for tasks like reading or winding down at night. Here's how to select the right lamp:

Graphic of lamp size in bedroom

Bedside Table Lamp Tips

  • Height Rule: Multiply your nightstand height by 1.5 to find the maximum lamp height. For example, if your nightstand is 27 inches tall, aim for a lamp no taller than 40.5 inches.
  • Shade Size: A base length of 17 inches pairs well with a shade diameter between 15 and 19 inches.
  • Proportions: The shade height should be about two-thirds of the base height.

Pro Tip: The bottom of the lamp shade should align with chin level when you’re seated in bed for optimal lighting.

Ideal Lamp Size for Bedrooms:
  • Height: 24–27 inches
  • Placement: On nightstands close to mattress height. The Laguna Mason Jar Lamp is pictured in the photo above.

Home Office: Bright and Focused Lighting

In your home office, lighting plays a critical role in productivity. Choose desk lamps and table lamps that provide ample illumination without being harsh. Here's how to light an office:

Office table lamp size guide graphic

Desk Lamp Tips

  • Height Rule: Multiply your desk height by 1.5 to find the maximum lamp height. For instance, if your desk is 31.25 inches tall, look for lamps under 46.88 inches.
  • Shade Size: An 18-inch base pairs well with shades between 16 and 20 inches in diameter.
  • Proportions: The shade height should be 30% less than the base height for optimal balance.

Pro Tip: Layer your lighting by combining ambient light with task lighting to reduce eye strain and create a cozy workspace.

Ideal Lamp Size for Offices:
  • Height: Taller lamps work best for larger desks. As you can see with the dotted lines, the 18" Rockport Table Lamp brightens a wide area.
  • Bonus Tip: Add directional task lights for focused work areas. The Bell Jar Lamp is ideal for making a specific area of your workspace brighter.

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect lamp size doesn’t have to be difficult! By following these simple guidelines tailored to each room in your home, you’ll create spaces that are both stylish and functional.

Ready to brighten up your home? Check out our Best Lighting: A Room-by-Room Guide for more tips on selecting bulbs that complement your new lamps. Happy decorating!