Ultimate Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Lampshade
Lux Lampshades is in the business of supplying curated lampshades of all kinds, for every kind of decor. We get excited over the design possibilities that the right lampshade provides; it can completely change the mood and look of a room. To get the right shade, there are certain elements to take into account: the size, height, shape, color, and where the shade will be used. Let’s walk you through them.
Understanding Lampshade Basics
A lampshade should be long enough to cover the hardware socket. It should be about double the width of the base and two-thirds the height of the lamp base.
The shape of the lampshade affects how the light is distributed. A larger shade will allow the light to spread through a room whereas a smaller shade concentrates the light. The shape of the lampshade should match the shape of the lamp, such as a round shade for a round base.
The material of the lampshade also affects light output. A translucent shade is good in areas where the lamp will be used for reading. Dark shades create a warm ambiance, more concentrated light, and are often used to direct light onto objects.
Lampshades can be made from fabric, paper, plastic, parchment, even glass. The type of frame (or “fitter”) determines how the shade will fit onto the lamp. Most lampshades use a washer or spider fitter, while smaller shades may use a candle-clip fitter.
What is a Lampshade?
A lampshade covers and envelops a lightbulb to filter, soften, distribute, or redirect the light throughout a space. The lampshade affixes to the lamp base with something called a “fitter.”
Different Types of Lampshades
There are many different types of lampshades. They’re broken down into the materials that are used (fabric, paper, glass, parchment, plastic, even metal) and the shapes of the shade.
There are four classic shapes: square, dome, round, or bell, with variations within those shapes, and of course, the sizes.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lampshade
To start, what’s the purpose of the lamp? A bedside lamp needs a different kind of shade than a lamp used in a living room for reading. On that same note, what’s the style of the room? You want the shade to work with that decor.
The shape of the lampshade should also match the shape of the lamp base (i.e. a round shade for a round base). When it comes to size, the shade should be about 40% the size of the height of the lamp and double the size of the base. A too-small or too-big shade throws off the proportions.
The harp is the fitting where the shade sits on the lamp. If the harp is too short, the shade will cover any design accents on the lamp; too long and the shade won’t cover the socket hardware.
Of course, the color and material of the lampshade influence how the light will look in the room. A lighter-colored shade diffuses the most light, whereas a dark shade concentrates it.
Size Matters: Finding the Right Dimensions
Consider the size of the room the lamp will be used in. A larger room can accommodate a larger lampshade. To determine the width of the shade, the bottom diameter should be about the same as the lamp’s height but not more than twice as wide.
The height of the shade should be roughly two-thirds the height of the lamp. Also, factor in the height of the harp; the bottom of the shade should be flush with the top of the lamp.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Style
Lighter materials, like fabric or silk, will diffuse more light throughout a room and create a casual ambiance. Darker shades made of opaque parchment or woven fabric create a more concentrated or dramatic effect. Lightweight materials are easier to work with; heavier fabrics or tighter weaves won’t let as much light through.
Color and Pattern: Making a Statement
Contrasting the color and pattern of the lampshade against the lamp base is an easy way to add depth, interest, and dimension to a room. For example, a black shade against a metal base is dramatic. A cream-colored shade against a warm brass base really sets it off. For a base with an intricate design, like a porcelain lamp, choose a white or taupe lampshade. Something simple, like a crystal base, allows for many color options and patterns.
The Role of Light in Lampshade Selection
What kind of light do you want in the room? Do you want it to be bright and casual, able to read a book or do homework by? Maybe you want a cozier feel in the bedroom, or light that highlights a piece of art on the wall. The right lampshade will distribute light in just the way that you want it.
A lighter material on the shade will allow the light to spread, whereas a darker material will concentrate it. Light can also be influenced depending on the size of the shade, the type of material in the shade. Consider the mood you want to create; a translucent shade disperses light more warmly and evenly whereas a dark shade creates defined beams.
How Different Shades Affect Lighting Quality
The size and material in the lampshade will affect lighting quality. A large empire-style shade or drum lamp creates a larger pool of light than a smaller pendant shade which focuses the light. The color and type of material (fabric, paper, silk, metal) also plays a role, creating so many exciting design options.
Understanding Light Bulb Compatibility
The right wattage is essential for safety. Use a bulb that’s either equal to or less than the wattage the fixture demands. Next, check the “lumens” which is a better way than watts to measure its brightness. LED lights are recommended for wider lampshades while compact fluorescent lights (CFL) work with narrow shades. Naturally, the bulb needs to fit the lamp fixture.
Matching Lampshades to Your Décor
The great thing about lampshades is that they’re an easy way to switch up your decor - even when the seasons change, like darker hues for fall and winter, and lighter shades for warmer weather.
A good rule of thumb is to match the color of the lampshade to prominent colors in the room like the woodgrain on cabinets. The fabric can make either a rich statement (like a silk shade in a formal dining room) or something more laid-back like linen.
Consider the shape of the furniture the lamp will sit on. For example, a table with angular lines will look great against a lampshade that’s rectangular.
You can create a design focal point with the right lampshade. If you want to show off an elegantly patterned lamp, a plainer shade will make it pop. Some design experts like to mix and match lampshades in the same colors but different shapes and styles.
Creating Harmony with Existing Furniture
Balance your furniture with lampshades that match prominent colors in the room, or use a version in the same palette. Choose shades that are the right size for both the lamp and within the room itself, and use similar shapes throughout the spaces. Create a sense of symmetry by pairing matching lamps, and stick with patterns and textures that won’t overwhelm.
Trends in Lampshade Design for Every Room
The current trends in lampshade design feature clean and minimalist lines. The simplicity of today’s lampshade designs work beautifully in every room, and with every kind of decor. They’ll maintain a timeless elegance over the years.
DIY Lampshade Ideas
If you have a plain lampshade lying around, turn it into something special with a little bit of “DIY.” Some popular ideas include applying scraps of leftover wallpaper; some folks apply a contrasting piece of wallpaper on the inside of the shade as well.
Using a stencil and some craft paint is another way to add flair, or hot glue fabric or ribbons to the shade. Spray paint the shade gold or silver for a bold look, or hot glue lightweight metallic pieces onto it.
Always check that the fabric of the shade can hold up to any new treatments; also keep the heat of the bulb in mind. Will it possibly melt any of your treatments?
Upcycling Old Lampshades
Another way to upcycle an old lampshade is by letting a professional like Lux Lampshades re-style it with new fabric, textures, and fixtures. You’ll be amazed at how it comes back to life in a fresh new way.
Crafting Custom Lampshades at Home
You’ve shopped and shopped and just don’t see the kind of lampshade you’re looking for. Let Lux Lampshades take your design ideas and inspiration and craft a custom lampshade for you! Our artisans work with you to bring your idea to life and add an exciting form of illumination to your home.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When it comes to lampshades, some common mistakes to avoid include using one that’s either too small or too big on the lamp base. It immediately throws off the proportion. Pay attention that the color complements the other colors in the room.
The wrong shape of lampshade can also be visually jarring; keep shapes consistent throughout the room, such as a round shade on a round base. And take into account the size of the room; a shade that’s too small will disappear, whereas one that’s too large for the space will overwhelm it.
Choosing the Wrong Size or Style
The size of your lampshade should be roughly 2-3 inches shorter than the lamp base with no more than a half-inch of the neck of the lamp showing. If it’s too big or too small it will look out of proportion in the room.
When it comes to the style of your lampshade, keep it synced to the overall shape of the base. Think of a round shade on a round base, an angular shade on a base with sharp lines.
Neglecting Practical Considerations
Other practical considerations when choosing a lampshade include ensuring that the connector bits that attach the shade to the lamp fit.
Room size is another consideration in choosing a shade. Make sure that it’s neither too small or too big.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Space with the Perfect Lampshade
The perfect lampshade is a simple way to elevate your space and give it a design “refresh.” With so many colors, materials, and shapes available, you can create a unique statement for any room in your home.
By utilizing light in different ways, you have ambiance, drama, and warmth available at the flick of your finger.
Lux Lampshades is passionate about using light and lampshades to creat an inviting atmosphere in your living space.
