How to Choose a Floor Lamp: Arc, Tripod, Torchiere and More
4 min reading time
A floor lamp can be a reading light, a sculptural accent or the main light in a room without ceiling wiring. Compare the main types and learn how to choose the right one.
A floor lamp is one of the easiest lighting upgrades you can make. There is no wiring, no installation and no landlord approval needed. It can light a reading chair, brighten a dark corner or replace a ceiling fixture entirely. The trick is choosing the right type for the job.
The main types of floor lamps
Arc floor lamps
An arc lamp has a long curved arm that reaches over a sofa or a coffee table, giving overhead light without a ceiling fixture. Look for a heavy base (often marble or metal) for stability, and allow about 6 to 7 feet of reach for a standard sofa.
Tripod floor lamps
Three legs and a drum shade make the tripod lamp a mid-century favorite. It spreads soft, ambient light and works well in corners. Wood tripods suit Scandinavian and farmhouse rooms. See our wood floor lamps.
Torchiere floor lamps
A torchiere has an upward-facing bowl shade that bounces light off the ceiling. It is excellent for general light in rooms with low ceiling height or no overhead fixture.
Reading and task floor lamps
Adjustable heads, swing arms or spotlights direct light exactly where you need it. They are perfect next to an armchair or a bed. Explore our adjustable spotlights and LED floor lamps.
Sculptural and design floor lamps
Some floor lamps are as much art as light, with globes, ribbons, paper and glass. They make a strong focal point. Browse designer floor lamps.
What height should a floor lamp be?
Most floor lamps are 58 to 64 inches tall. For reading, the bottom of the shade should sit at about eye level when you are seated, roughly 40 to 49 inches from the floor, so light falls on the page and the bulb stays hidden. Taller lamps work for ambient light in rooms with high ceilings.
Where to put a floor lamp
- Beside a reading chair: slightly behind the chair and to the side of your reading hand.
- At the end of a sofa: pair it with a side table, or use an arc lamp over the middle of the sofa.
- In an empty corner: a tripod or torchiere lamp makes the room feel bigger.
- In the bedroom: next to a chair or in place of a bedside lamp. See bedroom floor lamps.
Brightness and bulbs
For reading, aim for 450 to 800 lumens. For a torchiere used as the main light in a room, 1,500 to 3,000 lumens. Choose warm 2700K light for living rooms and bedrooms. A built-in dimmer or a three-way switch adds flexibility. Learn more in lumens vs watts.
Choosing the material
- Fabric shades give soft, diffused light. See fabric floor lamps.
- Glass shades sparkle and spread light widely. See glass floor lamps.
- Rattan and bamboo cast beautiful patterned shadows. See rattan floor lamps.
- Metal looks modern or industrial. See metal floor lamps.
For more ideas on combining lamps with ceiling lights and sconces, read how to layer living room lighting.
Shop the look
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Fantasia Oro Minimalist LED Light -
Orbita Tessuto Modern Metal Floor Lamp -
Massello Scandi Nordic Solid Wood LED Floor Lamp
Frequently asked questions
How tall should a floor lamp be?
Most floor lamps are 58 to 64 inches tall. For reading, the bottom of the shade should be near eye level when seated.
Can a floor lamp light a whole room?
A torchiere or a large arc lamp can light a small to medium room. In larger rooms, combine it with table lamps or sconces.
Which floor lamp is best for reading?
An adjustable task floor lamp or a swing-arm lamp placed slightly behind and beside your chair.
Keep reading
- How to Choose the Right Size Chandelier for Any Room
- Wall Sconces 101: How High to Hang Them and Where They Work Best
- Kitchen Island Pendant Lights: Height, Spacing and How Many You Need
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