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Lighting can make or break a room—accent fixtures set the mood for romantic weeknight dinners, dim ultra-low for Netflix marathons, or make it easy to read in bed. To add a ceiling light or wall sconce, you likely have to hire an electrician. For a table lamp, you need an empty surface such as a nightstand. But a floor lamp? All it requires is a square foot of floor space, which most of us have.
Even better, the style is versatile enough to illuminate any nook or cranny: where you read, where you work, and even a dark hallway. But the well-made lookers can be pricey, and it takes time and energy to sift through the category to find the hidden gems. We took the plunge and came up with task masters, fabric shades of all sorts, natural materials, and modern takes aplenty—all under $500. Read on for our top picks of each type.
Task Floor Lamps
From a reader-favorite dimmable pharmacy style to a modern classic and other marked-down pieces, these are proof that budget floor lamps don’t have to be cookie-cutter.
Traditional Floor Lamps
Give a corner a classy look with one of these traditional styles—there are brass finishes, fabric shades, and swing arms. We’re particularly fond of the Thomas O’Brien–designed models from Visual Comfort. Brightech’s arched beauty, spotted in RHONY star Brynn Whitfield’s Manhattan apartment, is a worthy runner-up for looking more expensive than it actually is. Don’t be afraid to shop the kid’s section, either—just take a look at the Pottery Barn Kids number below.
Wicker and Raffia Floor Lamps
Wicker and raffia both lend texture and materiality to a space, whether that’s in a piece of furniture or, as is the case here, a lampshade or base.
Modern Floor Lamps
Whether you’re going all in on paper or looking for a conversation starter, modern floor lamps offer everything from streamline silhouettes to quirky touches.
