We’ve seen the light. Actually, working here in Home&Garden, we’ve seen many lights, and rugs and chairs, you get the idea. … With back-to-school season upon us, we thought it fitting to share some of the best lights — desk/table lamps, to be exact — that we’ve come across, although not all of our picks may be back-to-school budget-friendly. Then again, love knows no price tag.
There is much to love about the Bourgie Table Lamp — an inspired fusion of a classical baroque silhouette with the ultra-modern polycarbonate material makes for a comfortable fit in any room that needs something a little quirky. And as much as I like the base of this lamp, the lampshade is the real star here. When lit, it refracts the light into a thousand rays. Pretty cool. It also features a touch-sensitive dimmer and is adjustable to three different heights.
Cost: $287
Design Within Reach; for stores, call 800-944-2233 or visit www.dwr.com
— Lana Gwinn, [email protected]
I like this table lamp by Caryn and Susan Kinzig because it looks like something that should be in the French boudoir of a very sophisticated woman. The color and design would add glamor to any bedroom. It is called Francesca and measures 29 inches high.
Cost: $560, plus shipping
The Guild, call 877-223-4600 or visit www.guild.com
Mary Daniels, [email protected]
For me, the Archimoon Soft Task Lamp from Room&Board has many things going for it: It’s clean-lined and contemporary but not too contemporary, thanks to its delicate, rather feminine, pleated shade. I love the light its halogen bulb casts, too, and only wish it didn’t cost so much — which will leave me lusting for it in the dark.
Cost: $309
Room&Board; for stores, call 800-486-6554 or visit www.roomandboard.com
Elaine Matsushita, [email protected]
I prefer a pretty table lamp (over a more “task” looking fixture) on my desk at home, where I mainly pay bills and do occasional computer work. The Brett Bedside Lamp from Pottery Barn with all those interesting curves has a great look — and adjustable light power. It stands 25 inches tall (which is a nice, statuesque height for my desk) and has a three-way switch, accommodating a 100-watt bulb. Base and shade are sold separately, giving you options. I liked the linen, tapered drum shade.
More Top Picks Bulk Soils
Cost: $70 for base, $39 for shade
Pottery Barn; for stores, call 800-922-5507 or visit www.potterybarn.com
–Karen Klages, [email protected]
How do I love this Trumpet Table Lamp? Let me count the ways. First, how cool is the peekaboo-style shade? (The funky black-and-white floral print is on the inside of the white shade and illuminates when turned on.) Second, its fluted, brushed-steel base and slender neck — hence the “trumpet” reference — adds a graceful touch. And third, you can’t beat the price.
Cost: $19.74, plus shipping
www.walmart.com (available only online)
— Tran Ha, [email protected]