Lamp Art

During our recent travels through France and Italy, one thing I kept noticing was the lighting. Not simply as function, but as atmosphere, sculpture, and art.

The most memorable spaces rarely relied on harsh overhead lighting. Instead, they layered soft pools of light through lamps, sconces, candles, and beautifully chosen fixtures that added warmth, ambiance, and character to a room.

And as an added bonus—soft elegant lighting is far kinder to one’s reflection in the mirror. Truly, harsh bright lights bouncing off white walls rarely do anyone any favours.

We hope you’ll stop by the showroom soon for a little inspiration.

Lamps from Salone del Mobile in Milan

A few inspiring lighting moments from this year’s fair. I was especially drawn to the warmth and simplicity of the tripod floor lamp with its paper globe shade, as well as the sculptural quality, texture, and rich colour of the lacquered spindle-style lamps above. Each felt functional, but also deeply atmospheric and artistic.

Lamps from Hotels we Visited

All of the lighting shown here is from a beautiful bed & breakfast we stayed at in Merano, Italy. Located near the Austrian border, the town reflects a wonderful blend of Austro-Hungarian, German, and Italian influences in both its architecture and interiors.

The lamps throughout the property were all vintage—an extraordinary collection gathered by the owner over decades. I was completely enthralled. Each evening, returning to our room, I found myself turning on several lamps at once, especially the beautiful piece beside the clawfoot tub.

And one detail I particularly loved: the modern sconces flanking the sink also functioned as towel racks. Functional, sculptural, and beautiful all at once.

The lamp in the image below was in our hotel in Provence, France—simple, understated, and incredibly atmospheric in the evening light.

The image below shows the stunning and timeless pendants inside the Fortuny showroom in Venice, Italy. Sculptural yet restrained, they perfectly demonstrate how lighting can quietly define the mood and character of a space.

Vintage Lamps at the Markets

The wild and wonderfully eccentric world of vintage lamps in France. I was especially captivated by the unique handmade shades and the sculptural cut-out ceramic bases by Georges Pelletier. Pieces that felt equally like lighting and collectible art.

Lamp Art at Gild & Co.

This statement lamp channels a refined mid-20th-century French aesthetic, evoking the kind of piece found at a high-style Parisian dealer. Available in a choice of finishes, including carved Italian alabaster seen here. Designed by Thomas O'Brien for Visual Comfort. Online here

Featuring an organic base made from natural rattan, the Avedon Cordless Accent Lamp shines bright with convenience wherever it is styled. Tapered linen shade. Touch dimmer. Available in natural or white. Online here.

The Elsie Table Lamp is a modern designer table lamp known for its clean silhouette and versatile finishes. Ideal for bedside tables and living spaces. Switch on the cord, reactive glaze ceramic base and linen drum shade. Available in 6 colours and clear. Online here.

The Amalfi sconce showcases a sleek silhouette with gracefully curved lines, that mimic a botanical. It's perfect for hallways, bedrooms, or living areas. Available as single or double sconce in Milano Gold, Plaster White or Waxed Black. Online here.

The Glazed Pot Table Lamp features a handcrafted vintage clay base paired with a taupe linen shade. The bulbous silhouette contrasted with the dramatically tapered shade feels equally sculptural and timeless. An understated statement piece that brings warmth and character to a room. Online here.

William Pharmacy Floor Lamp — classic low-profile task lighting with adjustable height and three finish options: antique brass, bronze, polished nickel. Online here.

Melange Rechargeable Lamp by Kelly Wearstler combines sleek design with cordless convenience, offering soft ambient light. Ideal for tables, shelves, or outdoor use. Italian alabaster shade in choice of finish: Antique Brass or Bronze. Online here.

Other Inspired Lighting

Sources: Roll and Hill, Marie Flanagan Interiors, and Mark Alexander