Swag Hanging Lamp Light

Buying Guide

Swag hanging lamps were the mainstay of interior lighting in the mid-20th century. After a dip in popularity, as contemporary lighting fixtures took over, these lamps are experiencing a resurgence of sorts as interior designers and homeowners are looking for innovative ways to include it in their plans.

And for good reason too. Swag lights don’t gobble up on valuable space like floor lamps do. They aren’t as bulky as chandeliers either which make them perfect for rooms of all sizes. From a functional point of view, they make great task lights in limited-space settings, like the kitchen island or a work desk.

With seemingly infinite designs to pick from, it can also be the focal point in your room. Here’s how to narrow down on the right one for your home or office.

What purpose will your swag hanging lamp light serve?

Consider the design of the room and the number of existing lighting fixtures before you narrow down on a lamp. Are you looking for a swag lamp to help you with your everyday tasks? Or are you looking for a fixture that’s purely decorative?

A room with lots of natural light, for example, can do without an additional ambient lighting fixture. You can opt for a conventional swag lamp with the light directed downwards.

On the other hand, if a room already has pendant or pot lights, then an aesthetic ambient swag lamp that points upwards to the ceiling will fill the void.

Where do you intend to hang the swag lamp?

A large single lamp works well in the living room, the entryway or above the dining table. It can be used both, as a task lamp as well as a focal point.

But if you are looking for an alternative for track lighting, then multiple, smaller lamps hung above eye level can provide the required luminescence without causing glare.

Always consider the height during installation. In an entryway, the lamp must be at least seven to eight feet above the ground. For kitchen tables, islands and work desks, it is recommended that the lamp must be at least 3 to 3 ½ feet above the surface.

What are swag lamps crafted from?

Vintage swag lamps feature ornate metallic frames and glass lampshades. These blend well with rustic or vintage inspired décor themes.

Chains were typically made of brass or bronze in the mid-century. If you are considering buying an antique, check the condition of the chain. Is it worn out? Does it need restoration? Can it bear the load of the heavy glass and metal lampshade?

The glass on the lampshade can be plain, textured or stained and casts a soft, diffused glow that’s well suited for aesthetic lighting in the kitchen or the bedroom.

Slag glass lamps with its mosaic of shades make for an excellent accent piece. Modern swag lamps, on the other hand, can be made of plastic, paper, fabric, glass or wicker making them better suited for living rooms or as task lighting.

What kind of fixture should you choose?

Are you looking for a permanent lighting fixture? Then, by all means, opt for a hardwired swag hanging lamp. If you are retrofitting, then the task might be more labor-intensive than what you expected. But there won’t be any garish, dangling cords to deal with.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a temporary lighting fixture, then go for a plug-in cord. You might need an extension if the cord isn’t long enough to reach the nearest outlet.