A Task Light You'll Prize for Its Usefulness
You may not realize that your favorite trendy lamp is part of a broad category known as pharmacy lamps. The original pharmacy lamp was given its name based on its widespread use as task lighting in pharmacies, hospitals and doctors' offices, as well as in factories and a wide range of industrial facilities. These lamps generally swivel and are adjustable in height to provide the user with light exactly where it's needed. The lamp designs have details such as beam-focusing metal shades and were originally made with cast iron or brass bases.
Pharmacy lamps are appreciated today for their mechanical designs and practicality; they work with a wide array of decorating styles. They are available in a vast selection of finishes and designs, and for table, floor or wall, so there's really something for everyone.
The first electric pharmacy lights, which were similar to this desk version, were introduced in the 1890s and were unique in their ability to provide direct downward-pointing light. Their gas-powered predecessors couldn't do this, because you can't turn a gas flame upside down.
This new invention made precision work in factories by draftsmen, jewelers and even welders much easier. By the early 1900s the electric pharmacy lamp had left the factory and become commonplace in the homes of those who could afford them.
Pharmacy floor lamps are the perfect solution to small-space lighting needs. They can be tucked into a corner and are ideal for reading. Additionally, they are easily wiped down, making them great for a large, moist bathroom where you might want a little task lighting. The brass finish is contemporary and at the same time has a timeless elegance.
It's a low-profile lighting solution for a living room filled with worldly treasures. Here it picks up the gold tones in the Indonesian textile and complements the brass Moroccan coffee table.
A version with a black dome-shaped shade cuts a striking silhouette in this ultrahip Barcelona rooftop apartment.
If I had to choose just one pharmacy floor lamp, it would be this one with a triangular domed hood and retractable arm. Its retro look is endearing, and yet it feels so very contemporary and sophisticated, especially combined with black and white decorative accents on white walls, as shown here.
In a living room whose sleek style is already defined by bold art and facing sofas, a pair of pharmacy lamps is the perfect way to provide low task lighting without raining on the parade. These lamps are almost invisible, which is exactly the point.
You can't beat it as a bedside lamp, because of its ability to provide adjustable directional light.
No room for a bedside table? Wall-mounted pharmacy lamps are stylish and practical, and in this case a pair of black lamps adds a modern touch to a traditional bunk bed nook.
Scissor-arm lamps also fall into the pharmacy lamp camp. In this room a sleek contemporary shade pairs with a retro mechanism, resulting in a wall-mounted lamp that's so sculptural, it can take the place of wall art.
Like 'em? Browse pharmacy lamps in the Products section
