Now, no dark nook or outlet-less space in a home needs to go without light – or personality. In just a few short years, the small but mighty rechargeable table lamp category has exploded, opening up options for designers – and well received by an audience used to charging devices.
In general, these lamps last around 12 to 15 hours when fully charged, depending on the light intensity used — though at the recent design show ICFF, Ameico debuted one notable newcomer, Australia’s Humble line, which boasts 140 hours. Many also can be dimmed or switched between different color temperatures.
“The wireless aspect of cordless lamps is appealing to all homeowners and interior designers,” said Gabriella Vivaldi, director of marketing, Zafferano America, which debuted in the U.S. in 2019 with the launch of its Poldina Pro and Pina Pro lamps. People “don’t have to work around wall plugs and switches to illuminate a space; they can decorate freely and add lamps as they need.”
And they can go anywhere. “We’re seeing our rechargeable lamps pop up in all types of spaces — on mantels, floating shelves, even kitchen or bathroom countertops where outlets aren’t always conveniently located,” said Sarah Speck, director of product strategy and designer partnerships at Hudson Valley Lighting Group, which launched its first group of rechargeable lamps last October.
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“The user-friendly experience of a cordless lamp is unparalleled,” added Mandy Spence, director of portable lighting and accessories at Currey & Co. “What other item can offer you a portable boost of light, on a whim, in an aesthetically beautiful package, over and over again without needing to be replaced? The cordless lamp can take the place of a small decorative object, providing users with both beauty and added functionality.”
British brand Pooky Lighting has expanded its rechargeable portfolio beyond table lamps to include wall sconces, picture lights, pendant fixtures and even floor lamps, said Regan Iglesia, U.S. president. “One trend we love is rechargeable pendant lights over dining tables or kitchen islands where ceiling access is limited, as they add drama and elegance without the hassle.”
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Zafferano America recently unveiled Angelina, which has a tiltable head, and Damina, a tiny contemporary lamp for both residential and commercial environments. At April’s High Point Market, Currey & Co’s recent debuts included Voyage, a glass lamp option certified for damp locations, while Hudson Valley Lighting Group added the Salma rechargeable table and floor lamps in an aged bronze finish, among others.
“Rechargeable lamps offer a level of freedom and flexibility that’s a game-changer for interior designers,” said Iglesia. “Rechargeables also bring a cleaner look — no cords, no clutter — making the overall space feel more refined and intentional.”
