Dear Jean and Richard: There seems to be quite a range in lamp prices and quality. Style aside, can you tell me what to look for in a good lamp? –Becky, Ashevilleichard: Hi Becky. I’m glad you know there is more to look for in a lamp than style! We may be pickier than some, but it is rare that we find a great looking lamp body that has the right combination of shade, switch, and socket.

Jean: It’s true that we sometimes rebuild a lamp to fit our client’s needs. But of course you might find the perfect lamp if you can first define its application. Will it be task lighting, such as a reading lamp, or will you use it for ambiance? Will it need to have different light levels for different uses, such as a 3-way socket or 2-way hi-low?

Richard: Hi, Ho!? What, pray tell, is a Hi-Ho? Or should I ask?

Jean: Hi-LOW! One setting is bright, one is well, dim. A little like me—and well, you. You can also choose a variable dimmer. Anyway, wattage is one consideration, which means you may want to make sure you also have a multi-level switch. Another is the shape of the shade, which might add a different consideration for the bulb. If the shade is small or tapered, you will most likely want a low wattage or torpedo-shaped bulb to avoid scorching it.

Richard: And speaking of scorching, here’s a hot design tip: when picking out a new shade, take the lamp with you! Three-way bulbs seem to work better with drum or boulliotte shades. These shapes allow the bulb heat to escape. And if you’re using the lamp to read, make sure there is enough space at the bottom for ample range. The amount of light projected beyond the shade is more important than the amount passing through it.

Jean: True, but besides the shape, the opaqueness of the shade also effects the use of the lamp. Shade fabric, color and lining are important in their transparency and light diffusion. I love the look of a black shade, but it can be harder to read by. Higher quality “soft” shades have a fabric lining, usually different from the outside fabric. Often white, ivory, black or gold……..Less expensive “hard” shades have a paper or plastic lining.

Richard: We could talk all day just about shades! But the design of the lamp has an effect on the light as well. For example, the length of the harp is important—you should not be able to see it below the shade’s bottom edge. And be aware of the socket—whether it’s sized for standard or candelabra bulbs. You will need a standard base socket for reading, because it can host three-way bulbs with wattage from 30-70-100 up to 100-200-300. Candelabra base bulbs, used on most chandeliers and smaller lamps, come in clear or frosted and bent or straight tips. The latter is best with clip shades. They come in a range of wattage, from 60 down to 5….which make perfect night lights.

Jean: Richard, do you leave a light on at night because you’re afraid of the dark?

Richard: Heck no! I leave several on to be able to jump up late at night and jot down great design ideas.

Jean: HI-HO!