_{image above: Quill Decor} 

A room without lamps is... well, not a room worth spending time in. So says this designer anyway. I feel like a broken record when it comes to this topic because I say it ALL the time but I will say it again: "When in doubt, just add lamps!" 

Everyone: "How would you improve that listing?" Me: "It needs more lamps." 

"What's this room missing??? It's LAMPS!"

Why do I love lamps so much? Because soft glowing light at eye-level around a room makes a house feel like a home.

Lamps are truly the handbags of the design world. They can be whimsical and fun, or a large statement piece in your design. Not only do they add flattering, soothing light but also personality and fun to a room.

That said, lamps, like all interior items can of course range greatly in price. And unlike the sofa or dining table, your lamps don't need to be high end or "durable" in the way your key pieces of furniture do. Although I love a gorgeous lamp from places like Soho Home and it would no doubt be worth the investment if you can comfortably afford it, there are definitely better items on which to spend those design dollars for a short-term rental.

_{above image: Urban Outfitters}

So without further ado, I'll share with you some of my favorite finds for the best lamps for your Airbnb, of different sizes, shapes and decor styles.

Of course the first board is an important one for a rental because lamps are not where you should be spending tons of money. There are so many great options available at great prices, you just have to know where to look!

 1. | 2. | 3. | 4. | 5. | 6. | 7. | 8. | 9. | 10. | 11.

This next board is also full of well priced options for those rooms that need a little more of an upgrade, like the master bedroom or living room. 

1. | 2. | 3. | 4. | 5. | 6. | 7. | 8. | 9. | 10.

This next board is still reasonable but a little more of a splurge. Sometimes the room needs a statement piece! Especially if the lamp sits in full view.

1. | 2. | 3. | 4. | 5. | 6. | 7. | 8. | 9. | 10.

Treating your guests to a lamp with an easy to find USB port could be a nice luxury touch that your rental needs to get you those 5 star reviews! (Read this blog for more about adding luxury touches to your rental on a budget!)

1. | 2. | 3. | 4. | 5. | 6. 

And just in case you'd like to see what I'm drooling over and dreaming about in the world of lamps lately, I thought I'd throw this board in for fun. These are real splurge items for your own home or a high end boutique hotel-like rental. 

 1. | 2. | 3. | 4. | 5. | 6. | 7. | 8. 

_{above image: Crate & Barrel}

Much like the fashion world these days, lots of the "rules" for interiors have been thrown out the window. We're living in a real "do what you want if you like it" sort of era. I'm not sure how I feel about it. It's admirable, and also confusing.

That said, I still think it's worth bearing in mind some guidelines which will help you make the right choice when it comes to choosing the right lamp for an area. When it comes to lamps, size matters. Lamp shade and light output also matter.

Of these images below, the lamp on the right doesn't make much of an impact. Plus there is only one! Cardinal sin of STR decorating! Whereas the ones on the left are much more impressive, professional, designed and grown-up. For lack of better adjectives. 

Let's  break down the lamp style rules by doing a good ole numbered list, shall we?

Some rules for lamps in your short-term rental: 

1. More is always better. Where should you put them? Wherever there is a horizontal surface with a plug nearby. ;) 
2. Safety first!! Make sure your cords are never a trip hazard in your rental. Don't float a lamp in the middle of the room unless you have a floor outlet or have secured your cord to the ground. 
3. How many lamps in each room. 
   1. Living room - minimum of 2 
   2. Bedrooms - I say have one on each side of the bed with a nightstand if you have room for beds that sleep 2 people. 
4. Don't spend a ton of money on your lamps. Go to HomeGoods or shop the links above! (Except the money is no object board. Reserve those for your own home or really high-end properties.) 
5. When in doubt go bigger and add more.
6. Always use energy efficient bulbs with a soft white color temperature. Never use 'daylight' — that will feel like a hospital room or prison cell. 

 _{above image: Soho Home}

That's it for me and lamps. I'm glad I got all that preaching off my chest, I feel better. I'm not sure I've converted anyone over to the light, if you will, but at least I've said my piece.

Happy shopping and happy hosting my friend!