Branch out: 7 of the Best Swing Arm Lights

Wall lamps have had something of a resurgence in the design world and it's not just their good looks that we're loving. Swing Arm Lights – those with an extendable fixture for directional light – make for better reading or task lamps too, as they can be adjusted to suit when you need brighter illumination or swivelled to the side when you want a softer glow in the room.

They also free up valuable surface space – important if there's limited room either side of the bed for a bedside tableor if you prefer an uncluttered look.

Not all Swing Arm Lights require hard wiring either. The gorgeous Game lamp at Amara and the industrial-style Campbell from John Lewis & Partners are two examples of those that can be plugged into the nearest electrical socket – if an easy update is all you're after.

The classic Bestlite BL5 wall lamp (designed in 1930 by Robert Dudley Best) has both options – it can come with a flex and in-line switch to plug into a socket, or as hard wired - so you can wire directly into a wall socket and operate from a wall switch.

See our edit of the latest light switches.

If cabling into walls doesn't phase you, then your options are wider. Pooky's Lacey wall fitting would suit a more traditional scheme, while the Foster+Partners Flo is a minimalist's dream. There's also retro style at Hector Finch with its Tom wall lamp.

Swing Arm Lights are not just limited to the bedroom, these wall lamps work well over a desk in a study, as a picture light or above a sofa in the living room. They would even suit a kitchen – anywhere that task light is required. Although, check for an IP20 rating if you'd like to install them in the bathroom.

See beautifulbathroom lighting ideas here.

Lauded as Britain's first Bauhaus influenced design, this Bestlite classic has had a modern overhaul with the re-introduction of this beautiful brass finish.

This black lacquered steel lamp combines good looks with directional light for blissful bedtime reading.

A first collaboration between Lumina and Foster+Partners, this minimalist design has a 180 degree rotating arm and is available in ten finishes.

1950’s inspired, this stylish lamp is available in a range of retro colours and three metal finishes to suit a number of schemes.

Bring a touch of luxe to your bedside with this beautiful brass wall lamp.

Hone in on your bedtime tome with this industrial style extendable lamp.

When not in use, this pretty wall lamp sits neatly against the wall.