Table lamps are as much a part of our homes as telephones, washing machines, and pictures on the wall; they are both functional and decorative; they can set the mood in your living room or provide bright, well directed light at a work station. Crystal glass table lamps with chrome features are very popular right now, they blend well with the current minimal decorative fashion, although we have found simple bright coloured table lamps can add a splash of colour to otherwise plain rooms. Task lamps, such as halogen desk lamps or LED lamps, which direct light onto books or desk tops, are something people find invaluable, making it so much easier to actually see things clearly rather than in a shadow from a ceiling fitting, once installed you wonder how you managed to see without your task lamp.

Bedside lamps are old friends who are there when we go to sleep at night, giving illumination on our latest novel and there again on those dark winter mornings as we wake up, touch lamps are particularly popular, no more fumbling around for switches and featuring a dimmer function, there are many designs on the market and usually very good value. Sometimes if a particularly well directed, and bright light is needed halogen task lights are perfect for bedside and look stylish with contemporary furnishings. If your bedroom is quite large or traditional in style two big feature table lamps either side of your bed may be more in proportion with larger size furniture, beds, dressing table or wardrobes.

Young children love to have bedside lamps featuring their favourite cartoon heroes, which can be matched up with ceiling pendants, but as they outgrow these styles they tend to prefer a more functional style, such as task lights, which can help them with studying in their bedroom.

In a grand entrance hall a large decorative feature table light or lamp provides a strong, warm first impression, whereas in the entrance of most homes a smaller lamp gives that welcoming glow as we return home after work or welcome friends to our home. Dining areas also benefit from the use of table lamps, a soft relaxed ambience can be created with strategically placed table lamps, saving the need for a harsh overhead light, yet still providing enough light for eating, drinking and conversation with guests. There are many coordinated ranges of lighting which feature ceiling fittings, wall lights, floor stands and table lamps, this will give you a sense of continuity in the design of your room, rather than the eclectic look of various items which have been added over many years.

Finding just the right table lamp for your situation can take time if you have a particular colour, style or size in mind, most retailers will allow you to try them at home, but once you find the perfect match it will probably be something you live with for many years.