Table Lamps

The bottom of the shade should be roughly at chin level when you are sitting up in bed: the light falls on the book without dazzling. On a standard bedside table (50 to 60 cm), a lamp of 40 to 60 cm suits most cases.

The shade should stay narrower than the table it stands on. A fabric or pleated paper shade gives soft light, ideal in a bedroom; an opal glass globe lights all around; an opaque metal shade directs light downwards, handy on a desk.

For working, favour light directed at the work surface, placed on the side opposite your writing hand to avoid shadows. A neutral white light, around 4000 K, helps you stay focused; keep warm light for the living room and bedroom. The banker's lamp in green glass and brass remains a classic.

Born in the 60s and 70s, the mushroom lamp is recognisable by its rounded cap set on a slender base. It gives soft, downward light and dresses a console, sideboard or bedside table. It comes in opal glass, lacquered metal or marble. Also read our article on the mushroom lamp trend.

Travertine and stone give a warm, mineral look (STINARIO collection), rattan a natural feel (NATURA collection), rice or pleated paper a japandi spirit, and ceramic and opal glass a retro touch.