Start by measuring your console, bedside table, desk or side table, so the table lamp feels in proportion and leaves enough clear surface for practical items: your monitor, books, décor, or drinks.
Choose a table lamp around 140 to just over 300 millimetres wide for smaller bedside tables and slim side tables where you need space for essentials, and a wider design around 370 to 430 millimetres for larger desks or consoles where you want a stronger statement or the lamp to cover more of the tabletop.
Compact table lamps ideal for smaller side tables, slim consoles, and bedside tables are:
The Pallino Portable Table Lamp at 142.5 millimetres wide and 225 mm in height
The Pallino Table Lamp, 310 mm in width and 380 mm in height
For larger desks, wider consoles in hallways or counter tops where you want a bright design statement, consider:
The King Living Eye Table Lamp, 370 mm in width and 450 in height
The Balla Table Lamp measuring 430 millimetres in width and 560 mm in height
As a guide for height, the bottom of the shade should sit close to eye level when you are seated, keeping the bulb hidden and creating a comfortable reading light.