The “So Moody” Kitchen Design Trend Taking 2025 by Storm (My Chef Friend Hates It!)

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I first remember becoming aware of the tiny kitchen lamps trend when Julia Marcum of the home blog Chris Loves Julia posted about the adorable brass lamp she bought for her kitchen nook. The whole little area was such a moment. I’m a sucker for any vignette that involves ambient light, especially if it’s diminutive and unexpected, and this was all of that. And in 2022, Architectural Digest covered the trend — even saying these light sources are “masters at setting the mood.” And I couldn’t agree more!

A kitchen corner featuring a black lamp on the countertop. — Credit: Shifrah Combiths Credit: Shifrah Combiths

Today, the look is everywhere and kitchen lamps are no longer an anomaly. I myself have partaken in the trend, although I like to think of myself as an early adopter. As soon as our kitchen reno was finished in August 2022, one of the first things I added decor-wise was a small black lamp. It’s no longer available, but it’s a lot like this $11 Walmart lamp.

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Mainstays 12.5” Mini Black Wood Ball Table Lamp

Walmart

$10.97

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I didn’t add a lamp to my kitchen because I needed more light, although this is a totally valid and great reason to add one to your countertops. We already had not only can lights (which I only use if absolutely necessary), but also pendant lighting and under-cabinet lighting, which is not only pretty, but excellent as task lighting. I loved the lamp simply because it was cozy, ambient, and moody.

Not everyone understood why. My beloved chef friend thought it was a strange addition that takes up counter space unnecessarily. (She needs all the room she can get for her baking.) And it’s true, I don’t have it for practical reasons, but it gives me joy every single day and night — and that’s reason enough for me.

The lamp is on perpetually. It sits underneath our corner cabinet so it’s in a space I probably wouldn’t have used much anyway. Not only does it give a warm glow that makes the kitchen feel homey and welcoming, but it’s a perfect night-light, too. I don’t like to keep the under-cabinet lights or the over-sink pendant light on all night, and the lights on our range hood are a bit too bright and cool for the soft look I’m going for.

The lamp, on the other hand, is perfect. Since the “mini” trend has taken off, there are so many more options for small kitchen lamps, including cordless rechargeable lamps, mushroom lamps, and eye-catching luxury designs. For those who don’t have task lighting, it’s a practical and pretty solution, and it’s a gentle beacon of a night-light for anyone who needs a glass of water or a midnight snack. But even if you decide to put a lamp in your kitchen for aesthetics alone, the coziness it adds is 100% worth it.

What do you think about the mini kitchen lamp trend? Let us know in the comments below!