I have long been a fan of swing arm task lamps. (Think Pixar's hopping Luxo lamp in their logo.) It's not uncommon to see these task lamps on bedside tables or behind reading chairs, but in the kitchen? Well, yes! In fact, this quick, yet classic lighting solution is perfectly suited for kitchen life.
The versatility of these lamps, often known as architect lamps, make them ideal for the cook in need of a little more light. Set one up on your counter or install them on the walls or ceiling. (The swivel head and neck make it easy to direct light right where you need it.) If you're not hung up on designers, you can find similar style lamps at all price points. IKEA's FORSA work lamp ($29.99) is a great budget option. A search for "Luxo lamp" or "architect lamp" on both Etsy and eBay brings up a number of vintage options, many under $100. For a complete buying guide to task lamps, check out these shopping guides from Apartment Therapy:
- Ten Classic Task Lamps
- Best Task Lights Under $50
- LED Task Lighting: Energy-Efficient and Stylish Lamps
Related: Articulated Arm Lamps for Lighting Kitchen Tasks
(Images: 1. Per Gunnarsson/Skona Hem; 2. The Kitchn; 3. Hotel du Nord; 4. Jenny Brandt/Dos Family, via emmas designblogg; 5. Trendir)
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I'm not sure using a task lamp in the kitchen is best for me. I like to have an open window or something for any extra light and I'll install a light if needed. My biggest pet peeve is not enough light in my pantry. Do you have any good product advice for that?
Yes! I have a great window, and a big glass globe light from the ceiling, but my landlady left me an architect's lamp that's positioned on my over-the-counter shelves, and it is amazing for cooking at night. Looks great too!
I wonder the same thing every time I open my pantry... there has to be a way to get more light in there!
I use one for baking bread. My apartment is generally cooler than the ideal rising temperature, so I position my lamp over the dough. It adds just enough heat to raise the temperature in the corner a few degrees. And having an extra light source is handy too.
I have vaulted ceilings in my 1960s kitchen. There is no light source above the range and the previous owner left behind the task lamp he was using. I love having the lamp illuminating my cooking space.
Here is a picture: http://www.jamies-recipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/IMG_4427.JPG
You just made my day. How did I not think of this???
jamies-recipes -- you have a lovely kitchen, especially those cabinets and their handles!
Great idea. Sometimes I feel like I'm not totally sure if my dishes are clean because of the lighting. This would help!
Great idea!
My kitchen ceiling light is behind me when I cook on the range, causing my food to be in shadows. I recently realized that I now stand at an awkward angle to get light to the pot. Maybe a similar task light attached to the wall would work for me!
@jamies-recipes
I am seconding the awesomeness of the cabinet pulls... interesting thought for paired doors! It's cute how far the task light is bending over... is the base just that heavy and well-balanced, or is it secured somehow?