Swag lamps are among the most versatile, efficient and economical methods of lighting up any area. Think of the Swag lamp as an accent lamp on steroids! Swag lamps were introduced in the early 1950’s, they did not begin to get real popular until the late 1960’s and became a very popular lighting fixture in most homes by the early 1970’s.
So what exactly is a swag lamp? It is a lamp that hangs by a chain and is positioned to hang from the ceiling structure by this chain. Usually it is equipped with a 15 foot cord and plugs into a standard electrical outlet. The versatility is the ability to position the lamp exactly where it works best – without taking up any floor space or desk/table-top space. They are also one of the best reading lights available and can be positioned ideally to put the light right where you want it. In today’s homes with wide open floor plans this is especially useful.
One well known use of swag lights is over pool or billiard tables. These are very easy to position for the best lighting of the table surface. This creates the feel of a relaxed environment that invites sports enthusiasts and friends to your billiard space. You can find swag lamp shades with logos from all your favorite sports teams and beverages. There are even many tiffany style shades for these pendant lights.
Most times the lamps are turned on or off with an inline switch. This is great if you are close to the position of the switch, however more and more people are equipping their lights with remote controls. This is major improvement in convenience and perhaps accounts for the dramatic increase in the popularity of swag lamps.
Think off your lighting needs in new ways – do not be bound by the traditional table lamp or desk lamp. If you could put a light any where would that be? No longer is it necessary to just think of expensive to install in ceiling ‘can’ lights for your accent lighting. Another benefit is the ability to change the light location after you redecorate or move the furniture around. This is extremely expensive and difficult to do with in ceiling ‘can’ lights. They work great near the end of a sofa, behind or beside a chair, over a dining or game table, in a corner, beside or over a bed, over a night stand, over or beside a desk, etc.
They style of your light can be small and elegant to large and neon like. You choose what works best for your decor and tastes. Swag lamps are truly a decorator’s best friend!
Here are a few examples of the variety of styles available:
Tiffany Glass Swag Plug-In Style Chandelier
Pretty in Pink Swag Style Plug-In Mini Chandelier