I have a floor lamp next to my bed similar to this and I find it really nice for reading and very unobtrusive. The one I just bought is LED and gives great reading light, is adjustable height wise and swivel shade to focus the light.

amieekim, I would love an overhead light. However, it would be very costly and a lot of work to put in since they would have to drill through joists to run wiring (not to mention all the holes in then ceiling!). I already checked for the living room (wanted a ceiling fan/light). That's why I was thinking of the upward light that worked off the remote. I could either keep the remote on the nightstand or mount it on the wall by the light switch and not have to walk over to turn it on/off. I might be putting a chair by it and get one that also had a reading light attached.

I really think the only thing that matters is that you're pleased with the amount of light you need. I would go with only one lamp, if it was only me occupying the room, and no central light for example, without second thought..if no central light, and two people-I'd put a torchiere on the other side, and would be totally fine with that.

( I never ever go for similar lights when I even have the opportunity and need to do so..table lamps will never be the same if it depends on me. Now sconces, it's a different story..these need to match..)

BTW in you're ok with the wall lights that are plug in-that might be great idea..these can be really useful for reading etc..the ones that can be aimed, especially. I'd add one table lamp to that.

I actually have two bedside stands and lamps (alas, they match) but I only use the one on my side. I don't share the room with anyone. I have a vaulted ceiling in just one direction, and no overhead light. Not only would it look weird, but it's not needed and generally doesn't give very flattering light. I have a 75-watt equivalent incandescent in the lamp on my side of the bed and it's plenty light for reading or doing out of bed things in the room at night.