Lamp Tables

A lamp table is a tall, slim side table designed primarily to hold a lamp beside a sofa, armchair or bed. It is typically taller than a standard side table, usually between 60cm and 75cm, so the lamp sits at the right height to cast light over a seated person rather than into their eyes. The surface is usually compact, intended for a lamp and a couple of small items.

A lamp table is a specific type of side table designed primarily to hold a lamp, characterised by its taller, narrower profile. A side table is a broader category that includes any small table used beside seating or a bed. Lamp tables tend to be taller and have a smaller surface area than a general-purpose side table.

A lamp table should be tall enough that the lamp shade sits at roughly shoulder height when you are seated beside it, typically between 60cm and 75cm for the table itself. Combined with the lamp, the total height of the light source should fall between 120cm and 150cm for comfortable reading and ambient lighting from a seated position.

Yes, provided the height suits your mattress level. A lamp table at 60cm to 65cm tall works well beside most standard beds. The compact surface size suits a lamp, phone and a glass of water without encouraging clutter, which makes it a practical minimalist bedside option.

A table lamp with a base of 25cm to 35cm tall works well on a lamp table, bringing the total combined height of table and lamp to around 90cm to 110cm. Choose a shade width that is proportionate to the table surface, typically no wider than the table top, to keep the arrangement looking balanced.