The arc floor lamp is an interior designer’s cheat code. It's functional, sculptural, and a touch theatrical, but without ever feeling overdone...provided you pick wisely. You don’t need to hang anything, wire anything, or even really think about placement too much – just pop one next to a sofa or dining table, and you’ve instantly got atmosphere, height, and a focal point.

Whether you lean towards mid-century icons or contemporary interpretations, an arc lamp does what all great design should: it elevates a space without making a song and dance about it. Here are some of the best examples to add to your home.

Flos Arco Floor Lamp

The Arco floor lamp by Flos is a design icon, created by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni in 1962. Combining the functionality of overhead lighting with the flexibility of a floor lamp, its sweeping arc and solid marble base bring sculptural elegance to any room. Ideal for illuminating dining tables or lounging areas, the Arco’s adjustable arm allows for versatile placement without sacrificing style. This piece embodies Italian design at its finest – effortlessly blending form, function, and sophistication in one timeless fixture.

Luceplan Lady Costanza D13e D Floor Lamp

The Lady Costanza floor lamp by Luceplan is the epitome of refined elegance and contemporary functionality. Its slender, telescopic stem can be adjusted for height, while the rotatable shade offers direct or ambient lighting as needed. Lightweight and easy to reposition, it’s perfect for modern living spaces requiring adaptable lighting solutions. The clean lines and minimalistic design of Lady Costanza allow it to seamlessly integrate into any décor. It offers a touch of sophistication without overpowering the room.

Oluce Coupé 3320 Floor Lamp

Designed by Joe Colombo in 1967, the Coupé 3320 floor lamp by Oluce is a classic of modern Italian design. Its sleek, arched form and adjustable head make it perfect for targeted lighting. Be it for reading or highlighting a favourite piece of art. The minimalist metal structure adds a touch of industrial chic, while the glossy finish provides a hint of sophistication. With its timeless silhouette, the Coupé lamp is a versatile addition to any contemporary interior.

Sten Floor Lamp

The Sten floor lamp is a celebration of Nordic simplicity, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Its minimalist tripod base, available in warm wood finishes, pairs harmoniously with the natural fabric shade, creating a soft, diffused light that enhances any interior. Designed for versatility, the lamp’s clean lines and neutral tones complement both contemporary and traditional spaces. Whether placed in a cosy reading nook or as a statement piece in a larger room, the Sten floor lamp exudes timeless elegance and effortless functionality.

Serge Mouille Three-Arm Floor Lamp

Serge Mouille’s three-arm floor lamp is a masterpiece of French mid-century design. Each of its adjustable arms can be positioned to direct light precisely where needed, making it as practical as it is stylish. The lamp’s sculptural form, with its slender stems and asymmetrical shades, creates a dynamic visual effect that transforms any space. Whether illuminating a corner or serving as a statement piece in the living room, this lamp combines artistry with everyday functionality.

Artemide Tolomeo Floor Lamp Maxi

The Tolomeo Maxi floor lamp by Artemide is a modern take on industrial style. Designed by Michele De Lucchi and Giancarlo Fassina, it features a fully adjustable arm and head, allowing for targeted illumination or ambient light. Its sleek aluminium construction and spring-balanced mechanism ensure smooth movement and stability. Perfect for large open spaces or home offices, the Tolomeo Maxi blends cutting-edge design with practical lighting solutions, making it a favourite for those who value form and function.

Foscarini Twiggy Floor Lamp

The Twiggy floor lamp by Foscarini is a study in minimalist elegance, with its slender, arched stem and wide, drum-shaped shade. Designed by Marc Sadler, this lamp offers a modern twist on traditional arc lighting, providing broad, even illumination while maintaining a light, airy presence. Ideal for contemporary living spaces, its flexible design allows it to be adjusted for height and angle, making it perfect for reading nooks or dining areas. The Twiggy is a stylish, adaptable choice for any home.

La Redoute Interieurs Arc Floor Lamp

La Redoute Interieurs’ Arc floor lamp blends French chic, functional design and an accessible price tag. Its gracefully curved arm extends over seating areas, creating a cosy, inviting ambience. The heavy base ensures stability, while the neutral lampshade softens the light for a warm, atmospheric glow. Perfect for adding an elegant touch to living rooms or reading corners, this lamp is a versatile addition to modern interiors. The Arc floor lamp’s understated design makes it a seamless fit for a variety of décor styles.

Lampandlight Arc Lamp with White Marble Base

This arc lamp from Lampandlight combines industrial design with luxurious materials. The sleek steel arc is anchored by a solid white marble base, offering a stable yet elegant foundation. The adjustable arm provides flexible lighting options, making it ideal for illuminating seating areas or dining spaces. With its clean lines and refined finish, this lamp adds a touch of modern sophistication to any room, proving that practical lighting can also be a focal point of stylish interiors.

Next up: The best minimalist floor lamps to buy in 2025.