One thing about me: I can be picky about lighting. It’s an essential element in a room’s design scheme; a detail that creates comfort, sets the mood, and provides practical illumination, all at the same time.
Because of my particular taste in lighting ideas, I usually gravitate towards expensive styles that are out of my price range. But recently, I came across an outlier – a $30 lamp that impressed me so much more than the high-end designs I have saved on my web browser.
Enter: the VARPTROSS Wall Lamp from none other than IKEA.
Handmade with thin bamboo slats curved around an elongated frame, this wall lamp has a refreshingly organic and natural look. It's made with a flat back so it can sit flush against any wall. Plus, its corded design eliminates the need for complex hardwiring. Although the lamp isn't sold with a light bulb, IKEA recommends the LUNNOM E12 LED Bulb for a warm glow.
This lamp's effortlessly elegant design stopped me in my tracks when I was scrolling on IKEA's new arrivals page, and when I glanced down at the price, I was even more drawn to it. With its sleek, slatted form, it radiates a luxurious modern organic aesthetic, and when turned on, it diffuses light in a stylishly moody manner.
Not to mention its plug-in capabilities – a design element that makes this lamp even more desirable. Unlike standard sconces that require thoughtful planning and hardwiring, this wall lamp can hang practically anywhere – so long as it's within seven feet of an outlet.
Ideal for renters or those who aren't interested in hiring an electrician, the VARPTROSS Wall Lamp is a great way to bring tasteful, artful light to your walls without spending a fortune.
Clearly, IKEA's design team took careful consideration when developing this wall lamp. Every detail is intentional – from the soft, curved silhouette to the tactile fabric cord that trails below the lamp itself. This attention to detail is probably why it is so highly rated on IKEA's site – boasting 5-star reviews.
Design expertise in your inbox – from inspiring decorating ideas and beautiful celebrity homes to practical gardening advice and shopping round-ups.
I'm already envisioning how I want to style it in my rental apartment – beside the bed in my small bedroom, next to my couch, or even on the wall above the dining nook in my kitchen. Not only will this wall lamp bring tasteful, mid-level illumination to any corner of my home, but it'll double as wall decor when turned off.
IKEA's VARPTROSS Wall Lamp has convinced me that sometimes, the best lighting styles aren't the most expensive ones. When practical design, chic style, and affordability converge (as they do here), it's hard to find something better.
Shop More Plug-In Wall Lights
Plug-in sconces and corded wall lights are convenient features for any home – rental or not. Shop three more that are just as chic as IKEA's VARPTROSS Wall Lamp.
With its brass base and plaid green shade, this sconce can bring heritage-inspired elegance to any wall in your home. At just under 10" in height, this sconce is small, but that makes it ideal for tight spaces that need light.
From its fabric shade and its pleated rim to its upward-facing glow, this sconce is such a charming light feature. Plus, its design resembles a flower in bloom. Just like IKEA's VARPTROSS wall light, this sconce has a fabric cord that makes it all the more attractive.
I may be biased because I have this plug-in sconce in my bedroom, but its definitely one of the best styles I've come across. Aside from its charming design, its accordion arm makes it such a practical choice for bedrooms, living rooms, or even dining nooks. You can find my review of this lamp here.
Shop More Lighting From IKEA
Aside from the VARPTROSS Wall Lamp, IKEA has many more lighting styles that are just as chic, affordable, and practical for the home. Find a few of my favorites below.
IKEA's VARPTROSS series also features this unique pendant. It's designed with the same bamboo slats as the wall lamp, and when turned on, it'll cast a refreshingly elegant glow across your dining room. Just like the wall lamp, this pendant is highly rated, with reviewers likening it to a statement piece.
This lamp is a classic choice that can bring some traditional charm to any room of your home. I love its simplicity – from its ash wood base to its crisp white shade. Plus, the carved detailing at the top of its base adds to its timeless charm.
This dark, straw-like shade of yellow is one of our top color trends for fall 2026. In the form of a lamp, it can bring a pop of color to any zone of your home. And when turned on, this fabric shade will diffuse light effortlessly, creating a cozy setting in any room.
IKEA's VARPTROSS Wall Lamp is proof that luxurious style and practical design don't have to come with a high-end price tag.
In fact, IKEA has many more lamps that look upscale but are surprisingly affordable. My favorites are the HALGATT Lamps – made in collaboration with interior design icon Ilse Crawford.
Love beautiful design ideas, expert advice, and inspiring decor trends? Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest features delivered straight to your inbox.