Most arc lamps are made from durable materials like steel or another metal. They should be strong and heavy with a nice wide, sturdy base, so they don’t tip under the weight of the extended arm. Many arc lamps feature marble bases, like the Teamson Home Arquer and Article Heron lamps, because marble is a nicely heavy material that can prevent tip-overs. When it comes to the lampshade, it’s a mixed bag. Some arc lamps have fabric shades, while others have metal ones to match the arm and base. This is largely a matter of personal preference. Standout Features Shade Type

The light is easy to operate, thanks to a foot switch that sits on the cord. There’s also a dimmer, so you can create the right ambiance for whatever the lamp’s intended purpose is—casting a slight glow or providing more dedicated task lighting. There’s flexibility in the glow, too. While the lamp comes with an energy-efficient 23-watt CFL bulb, it’s also compatible with 150-watt incandescent bulbs for those who prefer a warmer vibe. You can find arc lamps with both LED or incandescent bulbs, but it’s important to note the former is more energy-efficient. The downside: They emit a harsher light. Incandescent bulbs are more desirable if you want the lamp to emit a warm glow, but they aren’t as bright (not great for task lighting) and need to be replaced more often.Likewise, you don’t want your lamp to look too small and out of place. Plus, a light that’s too small won’t provide adequate illumination. While the specifics depend on the size of the room, Grace says a height of 6 to 7 feet is a sweet spot to ensure the lamp creates a visually appealing arc without overpowering the space.Options like Crate & Barrel's Meryl Arc Lamp and Visual Comfort Studio's Sawyer Floor Lamp are a perfect fit for this with their taller heights. The number of lights in an arc lampdepend on the design and purpose. Most arc lamps feature a single light source that’s sufficient for general illumination, but some models come with multiple adjustable lights, allowing the user to direct light to different areas, says Grace. The choice ultimately depends on your lighting needs and preferences, as well as the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve in your space.

Just be careful with the hand-brushed finish on this lamp. While it makes it look special, harsh cleaners can easily damage the finish—use a damp cloth instead. Want a different style? Pottery Barn makes the same lamp in a variety of other styles that mimic the traditional arched lamp—an arched sconce, a traditional arched floor lamp, and an arched sectional floor lamp. Arc lamps have gained immense popularity due to their striking design and ability to make a bold statement in any space,” says interior designer Elizabeth Grace. “Their graceful arched shape adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, instantly elevating the aesthetic appeal of a room. The arc design also provides a practical advantage by allowing the light source to be positioned overhead, casting a wide and even illumination across the area.” Again, how bright you go depends on what purpose you want the light to serve. If you need task lighting, brighter and cooler lights like LED, fluorescent, and halogen bulbs are a good choice. But if you’re looking for something to create more of an ambiance, consider warmer LEDs or incandescent bulbs. In general, experts recommend a bulb with a wattage between 60 and 100. Either way, a dimmer can add flexibility, since it allows you to control the brightness to serve multiple purposes.

Arc lamps may come with fabric or metal shades—it all depends on the style of the lamp you’re considering. Which material you choose is largely dependent on personal preferences. The shape of the shade is more important for illumination purposes. In general, the wider the shade, the more light will be dispersed.