Floor Lamp Bases

Do I need to buy a shade separately?

It depends on the base you choose. Some of our floor lamp come as part of a complete lamp set with a shade included, while others are sold as a base only, giving you the freedom to pick a shade that's exactly right for your space. If you're buying a base on its own, you'll need to add a compatible shade to complete the look. It's a great opportunity to get creative. Mix a statement shade with a simple base or keep things minimal with a neutral pairing. Just check the fitting size before you buy and you're good to go.

How do I choose a floor lamp base?

Start with the basics. Where will it live, and what do you need it to do? A floor lamp base for a reading nook wants to be tall enough to cast light at the right angle, while one used for ambient mood lighting might sit lower and wider. Next, think about style. Whether your home leans modern, traditional, or somewhere in between, the finish and silhouette of the base should complement your existing furniture and décor. It's also worth checking the fitting type (E27 is the most common) and whether the base takes a standard shade or something more specific. If you're buying a separate shade from us, the handy reducer ring on every shade makes them compatible with both E27 and E14 size bulbs.

Will a lamp base fit any shade?

Not always, but it's easy to check before you buy. Most floor lamp bases use a standard gimbal or ring fitting that accepts a wide range of shades, but the key measurement to look at is the shade ring diameter. The ring on the shade needs to match the fitting on your base. All of our shades come with a shade reducer ring included, which allows them to fit a range of ring sizes, so there's usually a straightforward solution. If you're ever unsure, drop us a message, we're always happy to help you find the right pairing.

What bulb do I need for a floor lamp base?

Most floor lamp bases use an E27 screw fitting, which is the most common bulb type and widely available. We'd always recommend going for an LED bulb. They're more energy efficient, run cooler, and last significantly longer than traditional options. For a floor lamp, a warm white bulb (around 2700K) tends to work beautifully, giving off that cosy, inviting glow that makes a living room feel just right. Always check the maximum wattage stated on your base and make sure your bulb doesn't exceed it. If you're going LED, you'll find most bulbs fall well within the limit.

How tall should a floor lamp be?

It depends on what you need the light to do. For reading, a floor lamp base that positions the bulb at around shoulder height when you're seated, roughly 130 to 150cm, works best, keeping the light directed where you need it without any glare. For ambient or accent lighting, height matters a little less. A shorter base can work just as well, especially if you're pairing it with a wide or globe shade to spread the light around the room. As a general rule, a floor lamp shouldn't feel like it's competing with your ceiling light. Something between 140 and 180cm tends to suit most spaces nicely.