Guest Picks: Shed a Little Light on the Subject
These smart-looking task lamps will add functionality and style to your study space or desk
I do a lot of work at my desk, so I’m always in the market for a task lamp that gives me enough light to do my work and is also great looking. And now that it’s back-to-school time for so many of us — whether as a student or a teacher — I thought it would be neat to see just what designs are out there. If the little nook where you do your work needs a lift, check out these designs. Sometimes the simplest change can make a big difference. — Claudia from Mockingbird Hill Cottage
Arc Task Lamp
Oh my, I love this design! Those vivid colors are fabulous — this is definitely going on my wish list.
OTT-Lite Alexander Brass Energy-Saving Gooseneck Desk Lamp
I’ve used OTT-Lite fixtures while doing needlework. The light is very true in color, but the fixtures themselves always looked a little strange and not very attractive. But now it looks like the company is stepping up its game, and this one is lovely! I’d never know it was by OTT-Lite.
Harrison Bedside Lamp
This is billed as a bedside lamp, but I think it would look great on a desk too. It has a lovely retro style.
White Linen Bronze Swing-Arm Desk Lamp
Swing-arm lamps, like this one, are very handy for working at a desk. You can adjust the placement of the light, but the lamp itself doesn’t take up too much real estate.
Chloe Hobnail Mercury Glass Task Table Lamp
I love, love this hobnail shade that adds the perfect touch of ’30s style. It’s wonderfully lovely and elegant.
Polished Steel Swoop Desk Lamp
if you're interested in a more contemporary design, this will surely make your heart skip a beat. It's very space-age looking.
Half Moon Desk Lamp
In that same vein, this one is so futuristic. It takes up very little space on the desk and has a cool cloth-covered cord.
Architect Table Lamp - $98.00
This architect’s lamp just might be the answer if you do graphic design or make architectural drawings. It’s also very reasonably priced.
Jumbo Jordan Task Lamp, Orange
Anyone for a pop of orange? I'll take one, please! This lamp is such fun.
Factory Task Lamp
In keeping with the bare-vintage-lightbulb look that is currently popular, how about this task lamp?
Adesso Graham Desk Lamp
I love the sleek, swooping shapes of the arms on this lamp. It would look perfect on a high-tech desk. On the other hand, it would make a striking contrast on a vintage wooden desk.
Modern Metal Camden Task Lamp
This lamp is reminiscent of a streetlight. It shines its light directly on the work at hand.
Kennedy Task Clip Lamp
Sometimes the perfect solution is a clip-on lamp — and this is the coolest clip-on task lamp I’ve seen in a long while.
Rex Task Lamp
Here’s a modern, streamlined lamp that combines oak, steel and white. That touch of wood really adds warmth.
Format Work Lamp, Nickel Plated
This is just a basic and very useful gooseneck lamp with a metallic look.
LEDs by Zeppelin LED Task Lamp, Black Chrome
How about something minimalist? This fits the bill. No distracting shape, just straight lines.
Ranarp Work Lamp, Off-White
I own this lamp and love it. The combination of white and brass is beautiful, and it has a great cloth-covered cord. It’s even adjustable!
Industrial Task Table Lamp, Teal
This lamp is sleek and industrial looking. It comes in several different finishes, including polished nickel, but the teal is one of my favorites.
Robert Abbey Havana Polished Nickel Task Desk Lamp
This very cool lamp was designed by Jonathan Adler. It has such a great look.
Snöig Work Lamp, Light Pink
The cutouts in this lampshade remind me of the desk lamps I saw when I was a child. I like its retro-inspired style and great pink color.
Next: Another Task Light You’ll Prize for Its Usefulness
Next: Another Task Light You’ll Prize for Its Usefulness