let’s talk lighting
more specifically, lamps
lighting is a big deal. it always makes a visual statement in a room.
layering in various forms of lighting is one of the main elements of thoughtful design. it is an opportunity to marry the essential while simultaneously contributing to the coziness factor and elevate the design of your home.
we have specific tricks and tips we use with our clients to help stretch their lighting budget; making intentional and impactful lighting selections ~ a mix of splurge and save.
but for today, let’s just talk about lamps.
lamps possess a lot of design power.
if you’ve shopped on design sites or worked with a designer, you are well aware that higher end, unique lamps, made with quality materials ~ often carry a hefty price tag. most designers will say it’s worth building your budget around statement lighting. and we agree. if and when it works with your client and their budget.
all
day
long
we would place any of the following lamps in our client’s spaces ~ confident the design impact was worth every penny.
but let’s be realistic.
sometimes our budgets require us to be selective and a bit more cost conscious.
sometimes, a dupe will just have to do.
here is how we approach finding an affordable option :
train your eye to look for the elements most often found in higher end lamps, and you will be able to identify them in more affordable ones. such as :
materials
think organic materials like clear glass, concrete, pottery or classic wood stains that stand the test of time
shape + style
keep it simple
keep it classic
look for a lamp that incorporates timeless design details in a fresh or classic way
shade
shade color makes a big difference. we normally like to play with oatmeal or linen or even black drum shades rather than pure white.
scale
explore your options :
oversized, petite or proportionate
lighting is a fun place to play with scale when the lamp has good bones.
example :
the scale on these pottery barn cuties may be small but they kept the characteristics found in more expensive lamps, so they work!
a few budget friendly options that we think check the boxes above are:
oversized rattan table lamp* - https://amzn.to/3QuFFlu
ceramic table lamp* - https://amzn.to/3GrpctG
modern round table lamp* - https://amzn.to/3CvPY2z
* as an amazon associate, i earn from qualifying purchases.
summary
just because your budget is dwindling, you don’t have to grab your bedside table lamps at home depot while you’re there picking out paint chips. it is a design element as well as a necessity. select a lamp that checks both boxes.
you can thank us later :)
kristi
cle elum designs
pnw interior designer