Where is the best place to put an arc floor lamp?

Arc floor lamps are versatile lighting fixtures—they can be placed in a number of different locations to suit different purposes. But the most popular placement is next to a reading chair or sofa, providing targeted illumination for reading or other activities, says Grace. They can also be used to highlight specific areas or objects, such as an accent wall or a piece of artwork. Consider the room layout and the intended function to determine the best placement for your arc lamp.

Do arc lamps provide a lot of light?

In general, arc lamps are known for their ability to provide ample light, says Grace. This is because the overall design allows the light source to extend outward and cover a wider area than a traditional floor or table lamp. However, it's essential to consider the wattage of the bulb and the shade design, says Grace, noting both can greatly affect the brightness and overall distribution of light.

How many lights should an arc floor lamp have?

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.

9 Best Arc Lamps to Buy in 2023

9 of the Best Arc Lamps to Buy in 2023 — The Spruce / Marcus Millan

The right lighting can make or break a room—not only in terms of how the fixture illuminates the space, but also aesthetically. But there are so many different types of lights to consider, from pendants and sconces to table lights and floor lamps. Among the latter, arc lamps are some of the trendier options, with standout style and a unique shape.

“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.”

To help you find the right light fixture for your space, we researched dozens of arc lamps from some of the most popular retailers, reading specs and hundreds of reviews to evaluate all of the most important attributes in both style and function, as well as overall value.

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
Standout Features
FAQ
Why Trust The Spruce

Crate & Barrel

View On Crate & Barrel

What We Like

Simple, versatile style
Retractable pole
Includes dimmer

What We Don’t Like

Must use dimmable bulb

This arc lamp from Crate & Barrel may be simple at first glance, but it makes a statement in any room it’s placed in. Featuring a slim steel frame coupled with a two-tier crisp white shade (which is also available in black), it strikes the perfect balance of modern and contemporary styles. This lamp also has an important distinction most of the other arc lamps on this list don’t have: The steel frame has a retractable pole, so you can adjust the lamp’s length and height to best suit your space.

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.

Overall, you can’t go wrong with this sleek, suits-any-room arc lamp. However, do note that the use instructions specify that it must be used with a dimmable bulb. Other bulbs can damage the socket and potentially pose electrical issues, so that’s something you’ll need to keep in mind when you swap out the original bulb in the future.

Price at time of publish: $399

_{Dimensions: 60 x 18.9 x 85 inches | Material: Steel, marble | Number of Lights: 1 | Bulb Type: 23W CFL or 150W incandescent | Wattage: 150}

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

5 finish options
Sturdy marble base
Easy assembly and use

What We Don’t Like

Not dimmable

Available in five finishes—including a very unique rose gold—the Versanora Arquer arc lamp has a long curved arm that makes it an excellent source of light for spaces like living rooms, home offices, or even bedrooms. Though the light source is a single LED bulb, it provides ample light to complete any task at hand, even at night. We also like how easy this lamp is to operate. The heavy marble base (which keeps the lamp balanced and in place) is connected to the power cord, which features a floor rocker switch. All you have to do to turn it on is give it a quick tap with your foot—then repeat when you want to turn the lamp off.

There is some initial assembly required, but it’s an easy process even the least handy won’t struggle with. Unfortunately, this arc lamp is not dimmable.

Price at time of publish: $148

_{Dimensions:‎ 43.3 x 43.3 x 66.93 inches | Material: Iron, marble | Number of Lights: 1 | Bulb Type: LED | Wattage: 40}

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Slim profile
3 brightness settings
Memory mode

What We Don’t Like

Can’t replace the bulb
Not compatible with smart outlets and devices

With a distinctly modern aesthetic, Brightech’s unique arc lamp looks super chic in a contemporary home or apartment. The minimalist lamp comes in two finishes—silver and black—and features a very long arched arm complete with an equally long LED light. We love the look and slimmer profile of this option, as it’ll suit both small and large spaces equally well. When on, it delivers 700 lumens (that’s similar illumination to a 110-watt incandescent lamp) with a warm white color, and there are three brightness settings. Thanks to its shape, it almost makes the whole area glow. It’s a real vibe, but is still bright enough for tasks like reading, working, or a hobby like knitting or drawing. We also like the memory mode feature, which “saves” your preferred brightness setting.

Unfortunately, you can’t replace the bulb. However, you should get plenty of use—years even—out of it. The brand claims the light works for about 20,000 hours. It’s also worth noting this lamp isn’t compatible with smart devices or outlets due to its dimmable nature, but that’s a tiny drawback compared to its standout style.

Price at time of publish: $90

_{Dimensions: ‎45 x 45 x 67 inches | Material: Metal | Number of Lights: 1 | Bulb Type: LED | Wattage: 15 watts}

Burke Decor

View On Burkedecor.com

What We Like

2 finishes
Tapered lampshade
Easy to reach on/off switch

What We Don’t Like

Lengthy turnaround time

Visual Comfort is one of the most well-known names in high-quality lighting, so it’s no surprise the brand makes an eye-catching and functional arc lamp we love. This fixture, designed in tandem with Kate Spade, perfectly marries contemporary and classic aesthetics to create a light that looks right at home in just about any space. You can choose from two finishes—burnished brass and polished nickel—depending on your preferences and the room’s color palette. The tapered cream-colored shade adds visual interest, and handy details like an easy-to-reach on/off dial-style switch towards the center of the arch, make it easy to use and style. Once on, the light delivers 800 lumens of a beautiful cool white light, which is plenty to illuminate the surrounding area.

The biggest drawback to this luxurious arc lamp is its turnaround time from when you order to when it arrives at your doorstep. It takes 20 to 22 weeks to ship out, and that lengthy weight doesn’t include the lamp’s actual time in transit.

Price at time of publish: $760

_{Dimensions: 62.5 x 75.25 inches | Material: Steel | Number of Lights: 1 | Bulb Type: A19 | Wattage: 9 watts}

Article

View On Article.com

What We Like

Unique arc shape
Sturdy base
Multiple bulbs add brightness

What We Don’t Like

Black finish may chip

Most arc lamps have elegant and fluid lines, but the Heron from Article has a unique angular design that separates it from the rest. We love it for more modern or masculine spaces, especially in the bold matte black finish. The polished marble base adds stability to the otherwise delicate arm that features a cantilevered wide circular shade. The three bulbs housed inside offer a nice level of illumination, and they’re powered by an on/off switch that sits on the power cord. Just step on it with your foot to power the lamp or shut it off.

There is some assembly required—about 20 minutes worth—but it’s fairly easy to do. Do note, however, that the matte black finish on the arm of this lamp can chip or scratch if it sees a lot of wear (or some bumps and bangs). Overall, it’s a great value piece that’s not too expensive, but definitely artful and statement-making.

Price at time of publish: $249

_{Dimensions: 77 x 19 x 72 inches | Material: Steel, marble, fabric | Number of Lights: 3 | Bulb Type: E26 LED | Wattage: 4 watts}

West Elm

View On West Elm

What We Like

Shorter, with smaller shade
Rotating shade
Compatible with dimmable bulbs

What We Don’t Like

Offers less light coverage

West Elm’s Petite Arc Metal Floor Lamp may be smaller than others on our list, but it’s one seriously statement-making option. It has an alluring vintage-inspired appeal and attractive brushed brass finish that’s eye-catching but not too bold. The lamp is shorter, at just 54 inches tall, and the shade is on the smaller side, which means it doesn’t cast as wide of a glow as some other options. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t provide ample light for the right tasks. We love that the shade tilts left and right to help you get the right angle to best illuminate your space. It’s also compatible with dimming bulbs, should you want that flexibility.

There is some assembly required, but it’s minimal and well worth the effort. This is the kind of lamp you admire every time it catches your eye.

Price at time of publish: $299

_{Dimensions: 30 x 11 x 54 inches | Material: Metal | Number of Lights: 1 | Bulb Type: Incandescent | Wattage: 60 watts}

Wayfair

View On Wayfair

What We Like

4 finishes
Industrial, lampshade-free design
Solid, heavy base

What We Don’t Like

Bulb not included

This 17 Stories arc floor lamp may not have the same sweeping look as more traditional silhouettes, but that’s part of what makes it so cool. It’s slimmer and smaller, thanks to its lack of shade, with a minimalist and industrial look to match more contemporary homes—like apartments and condos. The matte black finish especially plays into this vibe, but the lamp also comes in three other choices: brushed steel, matte brass, and matte white.

Like other arc lamps, it’s easy to operate. You simply press the rocker switch to turn it on or off. Just note that the lamp requires a standard, globe, tube or specialty bulb up to 60 watts, but the bulb isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Price at time of publish: $54

_{Dimensions: 70 x 15 x 10 inches | Material: Aluminum | Number of Lights: 1 | Bulb Type: Incandescent | Wattage: 60 watts}

Wayfair

View On Wayfair

What We Like

Heavy marble base
Adjustable shade
Customizable base and shade finishes

What We Don’t Like

Lamp can tip at certain angles

We love the traditional look of this arc lamp, but appreciate the fact that it comes in your choice of two base finishes and two shade colors for some element of customization to suit your space. It’s as sturdy as it looks, too. The heavy marble base and metal frame amounts to more than 30 pounds to ensure your lamp stays exactly where it should be—upright. It’s ADA compliant and easy to operate, too. Simply use the foot switch to turn the 60-watt bulb on or off. The shade is directional as well—tilt it to illuminate the room to your liking. No matter the direction it's pointed, the incandescent bulb offers a nice, warm ambiance that’s both cozy and suitable for more dedicated tasks.

While we like the heavy marble base on this arc lamp, it can still tip over. As you take advantage of the adjustable shade, note that at certain angles and positions, the shade can throw off the balance and weight of the base. With normal positioning, though, you shouldn’t run into any tipping problems.

Price at time of publish: $144

Dimensions: 68.5 x 49.21 x 12.5 inches | Material: Metal | Number of Lights: 1 | Bulb Type: Incandescent | Wattage: 60 watts

Pottery Barn

View On Pottery Barn

What We Like

Great for small spaces
2 finish choices
Works with standard and LED bulbs

What We Don’t Like

Finish can easily be damaged by cleaning agents

Not all arc lamps sit on the floor, and Pottery Barn’s Sinclair tabletop style lamp is the prime example. It’s a great option for people who love the look of the arched lines, but don’t have enough space for one of the more expansive floor styles. It basically looks like a miniature version of a traditional arc lamp. With an inline switch that makes it easy to turn it on or off just by reaching over and a clear power cord to keep your side table from looking cluttered, it’s a great accent on end tables, desks, nightstands, and more.

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.

Price at time of publish: $299

_{Dimensions: 12 x 8 x 27.5 inches | Material: Metal | Number of Lights: 1 | Bulb Type: LED | Wattage: 100 watts}

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for something with classic appeal, you can’t go wrong with Crate & Barrel’s Meryl Arc Nickel Floor Lamp. It comes at a mid-tier price point, is available in two finishes, and recieves overwhelming praise for both style and function. But if you’re looking for something more modern, the Brightech Sparq Arc Floor Lamp is truly unique. The long, thin LED light casts a cool glow over contemporary spaces. There’s no doubt, it’s a conversation starter.

Lamp Type

Before settling on a lamp type, consider its intended purpose. Ambient floor lamps, like all of the picks on this list (with the exception of the table-ready Pottery Barn's Sinclair Metal Arc Table Lamp) are the most common type of floor lamp, because they offer inviting light that’s not too directional. Reading, or task lamps, are more targeted and provides a focused light specifically meant to illuminate a particular area like a desk or reading nook. Uplight floor lamps aren’t as popular in terms of arc lamps, but is another style to be aware of. As the name suggests, these lamps direct light upwards to offer more overall illumination.

Height and Overall Size

Again, think about the purpose of the lamp and the space it will sit in. Arc lamps tend to be large—and you don’t want to select one that will overwhelm your room. If you're working with a smaller space, a slim option like the Brightech Sparq or a shorter lamp with a smaller shade like West Elm's Petite Arc Metal Floor Lamp will be a better fit.

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.

Brightness

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.

Material

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.

Shade Type

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.

Bulb Type

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.

Switch Type

Most arc lamps have floor switches that can easily be toggled with the tap of the foot, but this means you need to have easy access to the power cord. In order to better hide the power cord, some users prefer rotary switches or pull cords that live on the light fixture itself. Some arc lamps may even be touch-activated. No matter what type of switch the lamp your considering comes with, you may prefer to plug it in via a smart outlet, so you can turn the light on or off via your smartphone or another smart device. This will also allow you to put your lamp on a timer—great for when you’re away and want to make it look like there’s some activity in the house.

FAQ

Where is the best place to put an arc floor lamp?

Arc floor lamps are versatile lighting fixtures—they can be placed in a number of different locations to suit different purposes. But the most popular placement is next to a reading chair or sofa, providing targeted illumination for reading or other activities, says Grace. They can also be used to highlight specific areas or objects, such as an accent wall or a piece of artwork. Consider the room layout and the intended function to determine the best placement for your arc lamp.
Do arc lamps provide a lot of light?

In general, arc lamps are known for their ability to provide ample light, says Grace. This is because the overall design allows the light source to extend outward and cover a wider area than a traditional floor or table lamp. However, it's essential to consider the wattage of the bulb and the shade design, says Grace, noting both can greatly affect the brightness and overall distribution of light.
How many lights should an arc floor lamp have?

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.

This article was written by Brigitt Earley, a freelance writer with nearly 15 years of experience writing about consumer products, including home decor items like arc lamps. To curate this list, Earley scoured the most popular retailers to find the best, most highly-rated options. Then, she vetted each, reading all of the specs and hundreds of reviews. To make her top picks, she consulted experts like interior designers, and then used that guidance as she analyzed the style, functionality, and overall value of each product.

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