Choosing a lamp without regrets: how to find the right lighting for every room

Choosing a new lamp seems simple, until you need to think about the fitting, dimensions, brightness and where to put it. A design may look lovely but still be impractical because it doesn’t include a bulb, the cable is too short or the lamp isn’t suitable for a damp room.

These are some of the most common pitfalls when buying lamps:

• A lamp is supplied without a bulb. Always check whether an LED bulb or other light source is included.
• The dimensions are underestimated. A floor lamp measuring 179 or 200 cm needs plenty of clear space. The base and reach of an arc lamp can also get in the way in a small living room.
• An indoor lamp is used outdoors. A product with an IP20 rating is designed for dry spaces. Outdoor lighting, a balcony or a damp area requires a suitable IP rating.
• “Dimmable” is confused with a dimmable fitting. Sometimes the bulb is dimmable, sometimes the lamp has a built-in dimming function, and sometimes it isn’t dimmable at all.

Important specifications to consider when choosing lamps

1. Fitting, light source and wattage

First, check which type of fitting you need. Many decorative lamps use E27, while smaller fittings often take E14 or G9 bulbs. The fitting determines which LED bulb you can use.

Also check:

• Whether a light source is included.
• The maximum wattage per light point.
• The number of light points.
• The brightness in lumens.
• The colour temperature in kelvin.

An LED bulb of around 2700 to 3000 K usually gives off warm white light. A higher colour temperature may be more comfortable for a workspace. With a lamp that has adjustable CCT, such as 3000 to 6500 K, you can adjust the colour of the light to suit the time of day and what you’re doing.

2. Dimensions and placement

Measure the space before ordering a lamp. A 46 cm table lamp, for example, may fit on a desk or bedside table but could be too tall for a low side table. A floor lamp should stand firmly and mustn’t block a walkway.

For a pendant light, check:

• The total height of the fitting.
• The length of the cable.
• The distance from the dining table and walkway.
• The diameter of the lampshade or frame.

An arc lamp needs extra room for its curved arm. If a model has multiple light points, also check whether they’re adjustable and how far they extend.

3. Suitable for indoor or outdoor use

Models with an IP20 rating are commonly used for indoor lighting, as long as they’re placed in a dry room. This includes the living room, bedroom, hallway or home office.

For outdoor lighting, it’s important to choose a suitable IP rating. A wall light with an IP44 rating is designed to protect against splashing water, so it may be suitable for certain uses on an outside wall, balcony or by an entrance. Always follow the installation instructions and switch off the power before fitting it.

A visible CE mark indicates conformity; it isn’t an independent quality mark. Also check the information about the manufacturer, voltage, installation and statutory warranty.

Recommended lamps for different types of shopper

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Atmosphera Keli Table Lamp - Gold-Coloured Metal, 46 cm

Why it suits this type of shopper: This compact table lamp is mains-powered, has an E27 fitting and is suitable for a desk, bedside table or side table. The bulb isn’t included, so you can choose a suitable LED bulb yourself.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The product information clearly states that the lamp isn’t dimmable and is supplied without a bulb. This means you can order a suitable E27 LED bulb at the same time.

Key benefit and features

46 cm high, metal body, 150 cm cable with switch and E27 fitting for bulbs up to 40 W.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality

Brilliant Led Arc Lamp, 179 Cm, 1300 Lm, 3000-6500 K, Dimmable, Cct, Black

Why it suits this type of shopper: This modern floor lamp has integrated LED lighting, a brightness of 1300 lumens and an adjustable colour temperature from 3000 to 6500 K. It’s a good choice if you want one lamp for both ambient and practical lighting.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The specifications state both the brightness and the dimming function. They also confirm that the lamp has an IP20 rating, so it’s designed for dry indoor spaces only.

Key benefit and features

179 cm high, 1300 lumens, touch dimmer, CCT setting and a cable of approximately 2.3 metres.

Suitable for: Specific needs and frequent use

Philips Fylx Wall Light - Outdoor Lighting - GU10 Bulb Base - Weather-Resistant: IP44 - White - Modern Design

Why it suits this type of shopper: This wall light is designed for outdoor use and has a GU10 fitting. You can choose your own light source, such as a suitable LED bulb or smart bulb with a GU10 fitting.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The IP44 rating and outdoor use are clearly specified. The GU10 bulb isn’t included, so you can check the specifications of your chosen light source yourself.

Key benefit and features

Aluminium body, one GU10 light point, downward light distribution and dimensions of approximately 8,9 × 11,6 × 9 cm.

Which lamp is right for each room?

• Living room: a floor lamp, arc lamp or dimmable LED lamp adds flexibility alongside the main lighting.
• Dining table: a pendant light provides focused lighting. Check its height and cable length.
• Bedroom: a table lamp with warm light is a practical choice for a bedside table.
• Hallway: a ceiling light or compact wall light takes up very little floor space.
• Balcony or garden: choose outdoor lighting with a suitable IP rating, such as a model explicitly marked for outdoor use.
• Smart home: check which app, connection and fitting a smart lamp requires. For add-on products such as a Yeelight Cube, it’s worth checking whether you already have a compatible base system.

Frequently asked questions about lamps

How many lumens do I need for a living room?

It depends on the size of the room, the number of light points and what you need the lighting for. Use several light sources to spread the light evenly. For LED bulbs, check the number of lumens rather than just the wattage; wattage mainly indicates energy consumption.

Can I make any lamp dimmable?

No. The lamp, fitting and light source all need to be compatible with dimming. Some models have a built-in dimmer, such as a touch dimmer. With other lamps, you’ll need to use a suitable dimmable light source and an external dimmer. If it’s explicitly labelled “not dimmable”, don’t assume it’s compatible.

How long does an LED bulb last?

Lifespan varies depending on the light source and fitting. An integrated LED module can’t always be replaced. Before buying, check whether the LED source is replaceable and whether any stated lifespan refers to the light source or the entire fitting. Always disconnect a lamp from the power supply before cleaning or carrying out maintenance.