Wall lamps have had something of a resurgence in the design world and it's not just their good looks that we're loving. Swing Arm Lights – those with an extendable fixture for directional light – make for better reading or task lamps too, as they can be adjusted to suit when you need brighter illumination or swivelled to the side when you want a softer glow in the room.
They also free up valuable surface space – important if there's limited room either side of the bed for a bedside tableor if you prefer an uncluttered look.
Not all Swing Arm Lights require hard wiring either. The gorgeous Game lamp at Amara and the industrial-style Campbell from John Lewis & Partners are two examples of those that can be plugged into the nearest electrical socket – if an easy update is all you're after.
The classic Bestlite BL5 wall lamp (designed in 1930 by Robert Dudley Best) has both options – it can come with a flex and in-line switch to plug into a socket, or as hard wired - so you can wire directly into a wall socket and operate from a wall switch.
See our edit of the latest light switches.
If cabling into walls doesn't phase you, then your options are wider. Pooky's Lacey wall fitting would suit a more traditional scheme, while the Foster+Partners Flo is a minimalist's dream. There's also retro style at Hector Finch with its Tom wall lamp.
Swing Arm Lights are not just limited to the bedroom, these wall lamps work well over a desk in a study, as a picture light or above a sofa in the living room. They would even suit a kitchen – anywhere that task light is required. Although, check for an IP20 rating if you'd like to install them in the bathroom.
See beautifulbathroom lighting ideas here.
BestLite BL5 wall lamp, £543, Robert Dudley Best for Gubi at Nest
Lauded as Britain's first Bauhaus influenced design, this Bestlite classic has had a modern overhaul with the re-introduction of this beautiful brass finish.
Amis De Jean wall light, £465, Gabriela Chicherio for Ligne Roset at Heal’s.
This black lacquered steel lamp combines good looks with directional light for blissful bedtime reading.
Flo wall light, £262, Lumina Italia and Foster+Partners at Aram
A first collaboration between Lumina and Foster+Partners, this minimalist design has a 180 degree rotating arm and is available in ten finishes.
Tom swing arm wall light, £618, Hector Finch
1950’s inspired, this stylish lamp is available in a range of retro colours and three metal finishes to suit a number of schemes.
Game wall lamp, £150, House Doctor at Amara
Bring a touch of luxe to your bedside with this beautiful brass wall lamp.
Campbell extending wall light, £50, John Lewis & Partners
Hone in on your bedtime tome with this industrial style extendable lamp.
Lacey wall fitting, £79; and Empire shade in Yellikat, £30, Pooky
When not in use, this pretty wall lamp sits neatly against the wall.
