This Is the Surprising Budget Find You Didn’t Know Your Kitchen Needed
Designers’ latest favorite kitchen accessory isn’t a high-tech gadget or fancy dinnerware. In fact, it’s a humble piece that you probably never considered displaying on your countertops at all: a table lamp. Not only does the one in blogger Madison Veitch’s kitchen, pictured above, add a touch of texture with its pleated shade, but it also provides task lighting in a spot where you might need it, whether reading recipes, chopping veggies, or cooking.
Beyond offering texture and additional illumination, there’s something wonderfully cozy about table lamps in the kitchen, too. They’re unexpected on a countertop, so they can create a fun focal point and are a great solution in a rental, where it can be difficult to do anything custom with the hardwired lighting situation you’ve inherited. Choose something colorful and sculptural, and you get an extra dose of personality in your cook space.
On the other end of the spectrum, you can also find a minimal design that matches your counters and backsplash, so the lamp will recede visually into the space but still provide a nice glow when on. With so many stunning options — many of which are under $60! — on the market, it’s easy to hop on board with this trend. I’ve rounded up 10 of my favorite lamps for the kitchen below. The only thing to keep in mind when shopping is to pick one on the smaller side, so you don’t clutter up your countertops.
1. Rattan Lamp
This adorable Etsy find has made its way onto my “favorites” list for the texture and visual interest it offers at its sub-$60 price point and compact footprint. How charming is that beautiful wicker base? It’s the perfect addition to any grandmillennial’s countertops but could go boho, too, depending on how you style it.
Buy: Rattan Lamp, $59.00 from Etsy
2. Little Glass Table Lamp
This petite glass piece is an Urban Outfitters fave. Though minimalist, it will make a major impression on your countertop, thanks to the warm glow it emits. If the plain white hue isn’t for you, note that this lamp also comes in a splashier lavender shade, too.
Buy: Little Glass Table Lamp, $39.00 from Urban Outfitters
3. Largo Petite Lamp
Say hello to high-end looking texture with this stunning lamp from Jayson Home, which is perfect for those who love transitional style. Style it alongside a ceramic bowl or an antique-looking canvas picture for some extra oomph in your cook space.
Buy: Largo Petite Lamp, $48.00 from Jayson Home
4. Simple Designs Mini Ceramic Globe Table Lamp
For an extra budget-friendly option, this under-$20 lamp is our top pick; in fact, most colorways are available for less than $15! Available in eight different hues, ranging from lilac to lime green, you can snag a few to display throughout the house.
Buy: Simple Designs LT2008-OFF Mini Ceramic Globe Table Lamp, Starting at $12.25 from Amazon
5. Bentlee 12″ Bedside Table Lamp
Don’t let this item’s description fool you: It would look just as gorgeous on a kitchen counter as it would in a bedroom. The light green and blue hues are perfect for the pastel lover looking to spice up the kitchen.
Buy: Bentlee 12″ Bedside Table Lamp, $44.99 $25.99 from Wayfair
6. Small geometric ceramic bedside table bedside counter lamp
Pattern lovers, rejoice! This small lamp boasts an eye-catching geometric motif yet is neutral in hue and thus will complement any kitchen space. Talk about a winning pick!
Buy: Small geometric ceramic bedside table bedside counter lamp, $67.07 from Etsy
7. Terri Round Accent Lamp
Though an investment piece, this petite crystal lamp will make a major design statement in your space. It’s a classic find that will never go out of style and a great small-space solution as well, since it’s clear and has little visual weight.
Buy: Terri Round Accent Lamp, $239.00 from Lumens
8. Ansel Table Lamp
This funky mushroom lamp is another Urban Outfitters find I’m obsessing over. Available in three stylish patterns including this luxe-looking tortoise shell finish, it’s a fun, retro addition to any kitchen space.
Buy: Ansel Table Lamp, $89.00 from Urban Outfitters
9. Amara Marble Table Lamp
If your kitchen features marble counter tops, a lamp like this one would make for the perfect finishing touch. Pick it up while it’s on sale and then sit back and admire its timeless silhouette.
Buy: Amara Marble Table Lamp, $129.00 from Pottery Barn
10. Walnut Wood And Glass Cloche Ryan Table Lamp
Seeking a more industrial look? Equipped with an Edison bulb, this World Market lamp is a clever alternative to your traditional lamp with a fabric shade. Pair it with mid-century modern accents, and you’re golden — literally!
Buy: Walnut Wood And Glass Cloche Ryan Table Lamp, $59.99 from World Market