Smart and charming table lamps chosen by our editors
Table lamps are more than just a functional object, they are also a winning way to bring light, colour and pattern to any corner of your house. From antique-feeling brass numbers to sculptural ceramic bases, there are a wealth of styles to complement any house. Some come with lampshades, some don't, so make sure you check out our gallery of the best lampshades to buy now.
A table lamp is probably the most versatile character in the lighting family. They can be used to light a reading nook, a sofa, an armchair, a bedside table or, of course, a desk. Where each of these situations does often have a light set up especially for it (the sofa has a floor lamp to hang over it, the desk has a task light and so on), the trusty table lamp can do most of these jobs, whilst acting as a stylish addition to your home.
The best table lamps to buy in 2025
Soho Home's accessories are reliably stylish, and we love the stitch detail on the shade of this carved wooden lamp, inspired by Soho House Hong Kong. With her finger firmly on the pulse of current trends, Matilda Goad has come up with this charming little metal lamp, its pleated lampshade given an edge in shiny brass.
For a contemporary interior where too much colour feels out of place, this sculptural white and neutral lamp is a great choice, with the visual interest lying in its delicate form, somewhat reminiscent of an umbrella. Another white lamp with a strong silhouette is this very affordable choice from H&M Home.
This adorable little fellow on four legs from La Redoute has a lot of personality, and its natural tone means he'll fit right in anywhere. On the other hand, the vibrant orange Nesso, available at Heal's, was designed in the 1960s. It is instantly eye-catching and has bucketloads of retro Italian flair.
Another retro-style choice in a bold colour, the sweeping curve of the base of this Original BTC lamp in banana yellow is echoed by its round shade and circular metal base. And Matilda strikes again with a ceramic base in some very cheerful colours, designed to imitate woven raffia.
An online destination that has endless wonderful lighting options, we even have a whole guide on how to buy lighting from Etsy. This colourful lacquer bamboo lamp is an affordable and cheerful style just waiting to be dressed up with a frilly shade. And this vintage bamboo lamp looks incredibly striking with a classic neutral pleated shade.
Pooky is a one-stop shop for all things lighting, and we love all of its designs. This petite lamp is perfectly stylish for a bedside table or sideboard. Or this OKA lamp and shade combination is just so handsome. It would work well on a bedside table, sideboard or at desk, bringing together a smart shape with pretty colours.
Whimsical and elegant, this golden giraffe style from Porta Romana will be an eye-catching addition to any space. Alternatively, these lamps from Soane, hand-painted by artist Sophie Coryndon, were inspired by Renaissance majolica apothecary jars, and are practically works of art in their own right.
This charming helmet-shaped lamp from And Objects is certainly an investment, but it's so unique, you'll want to keep it forever. Pentreath & Hall expertly walk the line between modern and contemporary interiors, and this malachite lamp is blessed with the best of both worlds.
For something very bold and a little bit kitsch, try this table lamp in the shape of a bowl piled high with lemons, reminiscent of a Mediterranean summer. Or for a characterful, but slightly more muted table lamp, opt for this hand-painted, Bloomsbury-ish piece from antiques dealer Max Rollitt, which will bring a touch of Charleston into your interiors.
We love a brightly coloured ceramic lamp, and this squat style from Pooky in emerald is sure to draw the eye. Finally, this feminine lamp by Visual Comfort would look lovely as a bedside table or illuminating a console table.
