Living room lamps should be arranged so they won't be in the way while guests socialize in the sitting area but still positioned to make the most of their light. The light provided by floor lamps is perfect for reducing shadows created by overhead lighting in a dining room or bedroom. The height of a lamp and style of the shade should hide the bulb from view when you're standing or sitting near it. Lamps near sitting areas should be around 68 inches high so the shade conceals the bulb whether you're standing or sitting next to it.