Vintage And Retro Lamps

Vintage inspired lamps are inspired by retro designs but in a newer model. Items such as these have the advantage of being made of brand new parts that have been updated with more modern technology and materials. They have the look of an exquisitely preserved antique but in many cases they actually cost far less to acquire. These retro looking lamps make the perfect addition to many decorating schemes but especially those which are a similar combination of the young and the old mashed up together. There are a lot of different kinds of vintage inspired lamps available in styles such as ceramic, candlestick, Sixties retro, oil lamps and lanterns.

Ceramic Lamps

Ceramic table lamps are a traditional notion that is typically seen flanking a piece of large furniture on an accent table. The functionality of ceramic lamps has been a mainstay for many decades. Ceramic lamps are available in many different vintage inspired styles.  Ribbed ceramic lamps in a simple cream colour match everything and are an excellent option for those wishing to purchase lamps in bulk. The crackle motif ceramic lamp is a rustic look that can be employed with shabby chic decorating schemes as well as classic themes. Bright patterns and decals of flora, birds and paisley are another way to go.

Candlestick Lamps

Candlestick lamps are of a typical table lamp size with a base that extends straight up and down like a candleholder. They base may be made from one or more of several materials like wood, metal or plastic. Candlestick lamps are a no frills kind of table lamp that fit in to most rooms with simple elegance. The most uncomplicated version of these lamps would be a single metal column screwed into a cylindrical metal base with a plain lamp shade on top. For more of a vintage inspired candlestick lamp look for a tapered base that curves in and out like a pillar or table leg.

Sixties Retro Lamps

One of professional decorators' favourite decades from which to draw inspiration is the swinging Sixties. The bright colours and bold geometric patterns are always coming back in style in the fields of fashion and interior design. The funny thing about this style is that it is a retro-modern kind of look, like that famous cartoon The Jetsons. For this reason many stylists can choose to incorporate these funky retro inspired table lamps into their designs. Translucent lamps in brightly coloured plastic or glass are one such retro design especially when they are curved into interesting shapes and bulbous patterns.

Oil Lamps

It is not as common to see oil lamps anymore but they do have several advantages over paraffin wax candles. Namely that is they burn for much longer and do not drip wax all over the place. There are many styles of kerosene and oil burning lamps available many of which are inspired by the elaborate styles of the Victorian era. Others are a fairly simple structure that consists of a basin for holding oil which is topped off with a long burning wick. The basin of an oil lamp may be decorated in many ways such as colourful decals or coils of rope. They are ideal for dining situations in the place of a candle.

Lanterns

One type of vintage inspired lamp that just keeps on going is the lantern. The reason they have survived for so long is because of how good they look resting on a flat surface or lining a pathway. A lantern typically consists of a light inside of a box or a round container with see-through walls that is topped off with a handle. Some hanging lanterns such a paper lanterns are best used with electric light bulbs. Others are more old-fashioned in that they can be used with a lit candle. There are many kinds of lanterns for candles in styles like rustic wall, noir wall or English telephone booth.