LightenUp Design lamps

Why It's Good:

These lamps have the look of vintage home couture without the prohibitive cost. (When we browse on 1stdibs.com, we find ourselves salivating over lamps we'll never be able to afford, as they're the price of a small car.) These are like functional, affordable table-top sculpture.

Why It's Green:

The next best green thing to reusing old lamps is using handmade lamps in an energy-efficient way. LightenUp Design table lamps are made of natural clay, and nontoxic, handmade paints and glazes, but we're excited about the idea of using an all-too-modern LED lightbulb with one of these vintage-looking babies. While  CFLs may be the leading alternative to incandescent bulbs right now, LED bulbs are just starting to hit the market (they are a little pricier right now, starting at around $30 each, but are coming down) and can reduce energy consumption by 80-90% and last around 100,000 hours each. And no hazardous mercury to dispose of, as with CFLs. 

This inspired line of lamps by Lisa Goldberg features foliage and flora embellishments and creamy, smooth glazes, all in a variety of modern and antique-inspired silhouettes. Our favorites are the Victorian-meets-preppie pink and green Cameo lamp,pictured right, $200; the sleek and modern, all-white  Knockout lamp, not pictured, $400; and the subtly feminine black and white floral Fleur Ellipsis, pictured left, $600. These lamps are dreamy for bedrooms, and will add a unique twist to a living room. We're also cuckoo over the fact that Lisa loves a good LED for her lamps. Now that's design that's modern thinking;Julie Fowler  

Where To Get It:

For stores near you, click here http://www.lightenupdesign.com/2007catalog/buy.html or email sales@lightenupdesign.com to directly purchase.