How to place lamps on a buffet or console

I think accessorizing is one of the hardest pieces of the decorating puzzle – it pulls the space together, it tells the story. Too little and the room looks like a furniture store, too much and it can slide into horderville and obscures the beautiful furniture and finishes.

When it comes to how to place lamps we’re talking both function and form. And form and function need to play nice together to work.

Traditional design, such as the rendering above, is very symmetrical – classic sideboard with mirror, flanked by two tall thin lamps. Historically, these lamps would have been candelabra and the more the merrier. The thin lines of the legs on the sideboard are mimicked by the thin lamp bases.

Of course, times, they do change…

In today’s homes there may or may not be a formal dining room but there may be a foyer or breakfast room. An inherited family heirloom may work well with fresher more modern furnishings and bring a level of classic patina to a space. In this case, I think retaining a little tradition feels right. Still symmetrical with tall thin lamps, but a fresher overall feel. Symmetry and balance do read very classic and traditional.

Moving into a more modern or transitional space we may want to move into a more balanced asymmetrical look. The large art work is slightly off center to and  the stunning sculptural lamp placed to the side. Functionally, we’re more likely to have recessed lights for a more balanced level of ambient light and we can place lamps with form taking precedence over function.

Of course, centered and balanced is fine, but is maybe a little bit boring. I also wanted to point out that not all lamps can be turned into pairs. The vintage French sculptural lamp I’m showing has a clear “direction” and putting two together just does not work. The point of a symmetrical balance is just that – balance. This looks like lamps on parade.

If this vintage lamp came as a “set” they would be mirrors of each other. I still prefer the more asymmetrical placement above for this scenario. Don’t be afraid to shake thing up – even if it’s just a shift to the side.

This is a pretty vignette I created several years ago. It’s cut off a bit, but the lamp in this case was centered on the amazing faux bois table with the large art piece centered behind the table and chair to pull the vignette together.

Final tips on how to place lamps on consoles or buffets:

1. Height Matters: Opt for lamps that are proportionate to the height of the buffet or console. Taller lamps work well on taller furniture, while shorter lamps are suitable for lower surfaces. Aim for lamps that don’t overshadow or dwarf the furniture they’re placed on.
2. Symmetry or Asymmetry: Consider whether you want to place lamps symmetrically or asymmetrically. Symmetrical placement involves placing identical lamps on either end of the buffet or console for a balanced look, while asymmetrical placement can create visual interest by using lamps of different sizes or styles on either side.
3. Spacing and Balance: Ensure there’s enough space between the lamps and any decorative items or wall art above the buffet or console. Additionally, maintain balance by evenly distributing the visual weight of the lamps and other decor items on the surface.
4. Layered Lighting: Use lamps on the buffet or console to complement overhead lighting and create a layered lighting effect. This can enhance the ambiance of the room while providing functional task lighting for activities like dining or entertaining.
5. Accessorize Thoughtfully: Pair the lamps with complementary accessories such as artwork, mirrors, or decorative objects to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal. Consider the color scheme, texture, and style of the lamps and other decor items to ensure they harmonize well together.

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