How to choose lampshades?

tl;dr: Choosing a lampshade can be an overwhelming task. You need to consider the size of the room you’re decorating, the color scheme, the style, the shape, and the materials of the lampshade you want to use. Some cost more while some looks prettier.

We’ll take a look at all of these factors and help you make the best choice.

A lampshade is a sheet of fabric. It covers the lamp bulb so that light can diffuse through it. A lampshade can be made of paper, fabric, plastic, glass, and tiffany glass. Fabric lampshades are usually reinforced by wood or metal frames.

There are thousand-plus types of lampshades. Choosing lampshades is very important because of their impact on the room decoration and lighting.

Shades also depend on the style, height, and width of the lamps. A shade gives a pretty look to the lamp. it works as a prominent part of the lamp.

Lamplight color depends mostly on its shade color. A black shade emits less light compared to a white shade.

What are the main types of lampshades?

There are many types of lampshades. because new designs come into the market every day. Main lampshades are drum, bell, empire, coolie, square, rectangular, oval, cylinder, and hexagon.

Drum lampshade

The drum lampshade looks like a cylindrical shape. The drum lampshade gives equally lighting upward and downward. It gives less light around.

These lamps are generally kept with the bed. It is a traditional design. They are widely made from clothes and paper.

Bell lampshade

A bell lamp shade is wide from upper to lower like a bell shape and its lower edges are curved. These lampshades have been used for a century.

Bell lampshades are a popular style and attractive whether chosen in a straightforward and simple design.

Empire lampshade

An empire lamp shade is the most pristine design ever. The shape of the empire shade is a gentle slope from top to bottom. The upper area of the lampshade is half compared to the lower area.

Empire design shade is frequently used in all shape lamps like floors, tables, bedrooms, kitchens, etc.

An empire lampshade is highly sold nowadays, and its demand is at a high peak.

Coolie lampshade

Coolie lampshades have the shape of a cone. Coolie shades are reminiscent of traditional Asian conical hats. These shades are shorter on top and wide on the bottom. Therefore it gives much more light at the bottom.

These shades are frequently used in hanging lamps.

Square lampshade

Square shades have all sides the same. If one side is a triangle shape then all the sides will be a triangle. In square lampshades, light is emitted equally on all sides.

This type of shade is highly thin because light can easily diffuse through it. They are used in malls and restaurants.

Some square shades have round corners.

Rectangular lampshade

A rectangular, hexagon and square lampshade shapes relate to geometry. A rectangle is a quadrilateral with four right angles. It can also be defined as all the opposite sides being equal and all corners having 90°. Some rectangle shades have round corners.

Cylinder lampshade

These types of lampshades look like drum shades but the difference between them is height and area. Height and the wide area are the property of drum shape and the cylinder has a large height and tight area (upper and lower area).

Cylinder shape lamps are put on the floor. Also, used to stand with a bed in the bedroom.

Hexagon lampshade

Hexagon lamp shades have six same sides. The angle between the two sides is 120°. Hexagonal Shade exhibits an artful texture with glossy lines and multi-angled dimensions.

The hexagon lampshade shape is unique due to its large lines.

how to choose the correct lampshade?

First of all, you judge the area where you sets the lamp. Secondly, you know about the color of the wall of the room or table where you put the lamp. Third, how much light do you need?

If you want plenteous light then use white color and coolie shape lampshade. Lamp designers frequently use square and rectangular lampshades.

If you want an alluring lamp then choose the right shade. Like if you buy a lamp for a table then choose the adjustable coolie lampshade (white color shade) and thin fabric.

Many lampshades are made of potentially flammable materials. It is important to choose a shade that has some space between the bulb and the shade.

Use a non-flammable shade because the bulb generates heat.

How to match a Shade Shape to a Lamp Base?

Lamps look beautiful when their base is attractive. If your lamp base is square then use square and rectangular shades. If your base is rounded then use a drum, cylinder, or coolie shades. If the color of the base is silver or golden then use a white color shade otherwise use the wood color base for colorful shades.

Set the shade so that when the light falls based on the lamp, generates a fantastic look.

Use a craftsmanship lamp stand because it adds an attractive feature to a lamp.

3 Simple Steps for Selecting the Correct Shape and Size Fabric Shade for Your Lamp

Selecting the shape of the shade
Selecting the shade’s bottom diameter
Selecting the shade’s overall height

Conclusion

There are many things to consider while choosing a lampshade for your room or office. You need to think about the space you’re decorating in and the type of lamp you’re planning on using. There are a few things that you should keep in mind when choosing a lampshade.

First, you need to make sure that the shade you choose will fit your lamp and your space and that its design is matching your room design.
Second, you need to decide on the color of your lampshade.
Third, you need to decide whether you want your lampshade to be made of fabric, glass, or plastic. Plastic lampshades can be more affordable than fabric and glass, but they’re usually less durable. On the other hand, fabric lampshades are more expensive, but they tend to last longer and are more versatile.
The final thing you need to consider is the style of lampshade that you want.

A lampshade can be a great way to add a touch of color to a room. It can also be a fun way to create a focal point in a room. It’s a small thing that can make a big impact.

Author
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Eleanor Blake

With over 15 years of experience in home and office interior design, Eleanor specializes in creating functional, stylish, and energy-efficient spaces that inspire productivity and comfort. She holds a deep passion for lamps and lighting solutions—understanding their ability to transform ambiance, define style, and improve well-being.

Ambient, Task, and Accent Lighting: She seamlessly integrates floor lamps, table lamps, pendant lights, and sconces into both residential and commercial interiors.
Lamp Selection and Placement: Recommending appropriate styles—modern, rustic, or vintage—based on the space’s needs and theme.
Energy Efficiency: Eleanor is proficient in advising on LED options and smart lighting solutions to maximize sustainability.
Designing Around Light: Whether it's incorporating statement lamps for a bold touch or soft lighting for a cozy setting, she believes “light makes the design.”

“The right lamp doesn't just brighten a room; it brings it to life.”