How to Shop for Lighting Online Like an Interior Designer

The sofa is bought, the rugs are measured; choosing the right lighting is the finishing touch that ties your space together. In a way, it’s jewelry in your home. Anyone who has spent a few days browsing catalogs for marble sconces and rattan lampshades will tell you that this is a task easier said than done – will you go for the decidedly classic or go for something a little bolder? To indulge this metaphor further: diamonds or fringed shell necklaces that are forever? What else should you pay attention to when buying lamps online?

FashionGuide to Buying Lighting Fixtures Online

Chrome plated ceiling light

Ross Cassidy Tennant Chandelier

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To answer this question, we asked the experts. “It’s still easier to understand proportion and volume when you see an installation in person,” says Michelle Flicker, principal at Studio Dorion. “Pay attention to the size, drop, and shape of any fixtures you consider online.” Overall, size and scale are the biggest things to pay attention to with a digital storefront (be wary of sites that offer limited product information and lack specs, according to designer Allison Handler); though atmosphere is just as important. “I focus on things like brightness, warmth and dimming to make sure the lighting matches the feel I want the space to have,” Handler explains. “Materials and finishes were very important to me because you can immediately see the difference in the quality of the lighting.”

Another common online shopping problem? “It’s easy to fall for scammers,” says designer Sam Sacks. “I ran all my sources through Trustpilot to see if there were any buyer attention notices to look out for.” More practically, with second-hand or vintage sites like Etsy or 1stDibs, make sure each lamp has the correct certification for your region. (In North America, Sachs says, keep an eye out for the UL listing: It’s the seal electricians need to look for before installing your light fixtures.)

With that in mind, we’ve put together 13 great online resources for light shopping. From Art Deco table lamps to stylish chrome chandeliers to scalloped glass wall sconces, we bet you’ll find your dream fixture in the edit.

An excellent resource for designers such as Louis Poulsen, Herman Miller and Hay, DWR’s catalog is full of interesting finds. Lately, we’ve been leaning toward more sculptural, layered designs; a happy coincidence that, according to Handler, it’s one of this year’s most prominent trends. “I love how ruffled and ruffled tones bring a little personality to the lighting,” she says. “They instantly soften the space, helping the light feel less harsh.”