Lighting has always been a big design element in your home. The lamp you choose for your bedroom, office or living room helps set the mood for relaxation and makes reading a breeze. Its size and shape, along with its shade and base materials, determine the amount of light it produces. New looks are constantly appearing on table and desk lamps, so you’re sure to find the perfect one for your space.

A quality light bulb is important for any lamp, but even more important are the safety features built into it. Look for a product that has UL-listed certification. This signifies that the lamp meets national standards for electrical safety and is tested for performance, durability and flammability. It also means that the manufacturer has a strong commitment to customer service.

In addition to safety, a good quality lamp will feature an LED light with a low heat output. This reduces your risk of fire and minimizes glare. It will also have a convenient touch-operated switch that turns the lights on and off and lets you adjust their brightness to your preference. Some models have an automatic shut-off timer to help you sleep peacefully at night.

You’ll also want to pay attention to the brightness of your lamp, which is measured in lumens. Young children can handle a lower number, such as 450, while adolescents and adults need a higher level of 800 to 1100 lumens for comfortable reading. Look for a lamp that comes with the appropriate bulb type and has a bulb change tool in case you need to replace it.

Another great feature of some lamp models is a swiveling head that can direct the light to far corners or make task work easier at your desk. You may also be interested in a dual-head style that gives you the flexibility to split the light between two heads, allowing you to focus on specific tasks or simply to brighten far surfaces.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, consider the amount of lamps you need to illuminate your space. For example, a bedside lamp will look more elegant on a narrow nightstand than a floor model, while a pair of modern table lamps can elevate your entryway or living room. You could even try mixing styles and pairing a bedside table lamp with a floor lamp of a different aesthetic for a dramatic effect. No matter the space, a well-chosen lamp can make a huge impact in your room and leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.