Buying second-hand lighting: how to choose the right lamp (wall lamp or table lamp) for ambiance in your home

Lighting is truly an interior hack: with a few good light sources, your home immediately feels warmer, cozier, and "finished." And the best part is: you don't have to spend a fortune. In Creating Home's second chance collection, you'll regularly find wall lamps and table lamps as return deals: new and unused, but at a discount.

Want to see what's currently available right away?
View the current second chance offerings

Quick Selection Guide (30 seconds)

• Do you primarily want ambiance? → choose a table lamp with warm light in a corner, on a dresser, or next to the sofa.
• Do you want practical light (reading/working)? → choose a lamp that can shine focused (e.g., a wall lamp by the sofa or desk corner).
• Do you want to make your space look bigger? → add multiple light sources (not one bright lamp in the center).
• Do you want a "hotel vibe"? → work with 2–4 light sources per room (basic + ambient + accent).

What does "second chance" mean for lighting?

Second chance lamps are return items: they have been returned by customers (for example, because the size or style didn't fit). The lamp itself is new and unused. Sometimes it is repackaged and the box may show slight signs, but the product is in excellent condition.

Tip: because these are return deals, the selection is often limited and changes regularly. See something that fits? Then "a little later" can sometimes be too late.

Why lighting makes such a big difference (and why one ceiling lamp isn't enough)

Many homes have one central ceiling lamp. Convenient, but it often provides harsh light and little atmosphere. What does work: working with light layers.

The 3 light layers (super simple)

• Basic light: so you can use the space well (e.g., ceiling lamp).
• Ambient lighting: warm and cozy (table lamp, wall lamp, dimmable light).
• Accent light: to highlight something (e.g., a corner, art, plant, cabinet).

With second chance lighting, you can add those ambient and accent layers very affordably.

Wall lamp or table lamp: what suits you?

Wall lamp (space-saving + luxurious look)

• Perfect if you don't have space for a floor lamp
• Beautiful next to a mirror, above a cabinet, or by the sofa
• Often gives a calm, "styled" appearance

Table lamp (easy to move + quick ambiance)

• Ideal on a dresser, side table, or nightstand
• You can easily move it if you want to rearrange
• Great for extra warmth in the evening

Practical tip: Stick a piece of paper on the wall in the shape of the lamp. This way you can see in 30 seconds if the size and placement are correct.