We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: each room in the home should have at least three to five different light sources, in addition to overhead lighting. And of all the lighting styles out there (pendants, chandeliers, sconces, and beyond), the floor lamp is particularly low-lift yet impactful. They don’t require a second piece of furniture (like table lamps) or hard-wiring (like sconces and ceiling fixtures), yet provide the same cozy, ambient light.

Plus, they’re incredibly fun to shop for — from sculptural to classic, there’s a floor lamp for every room and design aesthetic. Ahead, Havenly designer Kasee Smith breaks down the most frequently used types of floor lamps, in addition to sharing her favorite product selects. Giving your home an ambient glow-up just got that much easier – and stylish.

1. Tree Floor Lamps

Tree floor lamps, which feature multiple lamp heads, often have adjustable brightness levels: every light can be turned on in unison to light up an entire room, or you can use just one to create a more relaxed environment, perfect for reading. These brass-toned options are eye-catching, too — perfect for adding the perfect dose of drama to a corner that could use a little more excitement!

Linus Floor Lamp // Curvilinear Mid-Century Floor Lamp // Belini Floor Lamp

2. Classic Floor Lamps

When it comes to creating ambiance, classic shaded floor lamps are at the top of the pack. Unlike pointed task lamps or lamps with metal, wicker, or colorful glass shades, classic floor lamps with a linen or cotton shade are designed to cast soft light around an entire room. You can basically turn on golden hour with a single flip of a switch. Shop a few of our favorites for that enviable, inviting glow:

Promenade Floor Lamp // Downing Floor Lamp // Vivier Floor Lamp

3. Tripod Floor Lamps

If you have a little extra room to spare or desperately need to fill a large, empty corner, consider a tripod floor lamp. You can shop tripod-style lamps with a drum head, which helps the lamp to emit a softer, more diffused glow, or a glass or wired option, which gives off brighter, more intense light. These tall, angular lamps have a modern feel that can easily elevate a room:

Cage Tripod // LED Tripod // Globe Tripod

4. Arc Floor Lamps

This timeless mid-century modern style is an enduring classic for obvious reasons — they’re incredibly handy when trying to illuminate a snug seating area or corner sectional. And while the original 1962 design featured a metal shade, you can now shop arc floor lamps in any design style under the sun — including coastal, farmhouse, and beyond.

Wood Hanging Arc Floor Lamp // Metal Arc Floor Lamp // Conical Overarching Floor Lamp

5. Sculptural Floor Lamps

Sometimes, you don’t want a floor lamp to fade into the background — you want it to make a statement. Sculptural floor lamps boast unique, eye-catching silhouettes and textured materials that are meant to turn heads, from weighty, concrete bases to intricate woodwork and beyond.

Ebony Fishbone Floor Lamp // Landing Wood Floor Lamp // Polar Floor Lamp

6. Task Floor Lamps

If you’re looking for pointed, direct light to illuminate late-night reading sessions and office hours alike, meet the task lamp. This no-frills style is the perfect accompaniment to a home office, Reading Room, or small bedroom — the slim profile makes them incredibly versatile. Go for a brushed or polished brass number for added style points.

Highlight Task Lamp // Claremont Floor Lamp // Pharmacy Floor Lamp

From selecting the perfect lighting to designing the best layout to maximize your space, our designers are here for it all. Take our style quiz to discover the perfect designer for your unique look.