Welcome back for another week of Back to Basics lighting lessons! Today I'm turning my attention to bedroom lighting basics, where proper illumination is key for creating a relaxing mood. Soft and serene lighting in this space is of particular importance if you have high stress levels—i.e. if you're a human in the digital age. Anything too bright prevents a restful mindset, whereas by contrast, the right combination of lamps encourages calming activities and a good night's sleep.
The value of bedside directional lighting in the bedroom can't be overstated. Although wall lights are a slightly bigger commitment and require more effort to install than table lamps or a stylish floor lamp, once they're mounted you'll be glad you invested the time and energy. A swing or jointed arm allows one bed partner to continue reading while the other sleeps unbothered by the light. In other words, lamps like these could save your marriage!
Bedside lamps are an important style statement as well as functional pieces. I tend to gravitate towards tall, slim bedside table lamps for one reason in particular: I'm messy by nature, and a streamlined look reminds me to keep my nightstand tidy. This type of lamp is often called a 'buffet lamp'—can't you picture a footman standing beside these specimens in the dining room on Downton Abbey?—but there's no reason why you can't take advantage of their willowy lines in the bedroom. Place one next to a stack of books, your journal, and a glass of water, and you're practically guaranteeing pillowside peace.
Next week I'll finish up Back to Basics lighting in that trickiest of rooms, the bathroom.
Want more lighting basics? Read my past posts on kitchen lighting and living room lighting.
Shopping Guide: 1. Bronze Swing Arm Wall Lamp 2. Old Bronze Swing Arm Lamp 3. Oiled Bronze Wall Light 4. Bronze Swing Arm Lamp 5. Cast Metal White Buffet Lamp 6. Chrome Buffet Table Lamp 7. Nickel and Leather Table Lamp 8. Black Shade Modern Table Lamp
Images: Lamps Plus Guest Blogging Pinterest.