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What's the Best Way to Choose the Perfect Lampshade for Your Floor Lamp?

  • Jack Wrytr
  • Jul 2
  • 4 min read

When it comes to house lighting, the floor lamp often acts as both a functional and stylish accent. But do you know the true game changer? The lampshade is the answer! The right lampshade for floor lamp can entirely transform the look, atmosphere, and feel of a room. Due to the numerous shapes, materials, and styles available on the market, it is challenging to choose the right one. So, what is the greatest technique to find your dream match? Let's break down the vital factors to consider when choosing a lampshade that complements your floor lamp and your space.

lampshade for floor lamp​

Top 5 Factors to Consider When Choosing the Perfect Lampshade 


Here are the top 5 factors to keep in mind before you make your choice:


  1. Floor Lamp Design

Typically, floor lamps are available in two styles: a narrow, single-column design, usually between 5 and 15 cm in width. Alternatively, a tripod style, which has three legs and covers a much larger area.


  1. Lampshade Size

As a general rule, a single-column floor lamp should have a shade that is at least 40 cm in diameter. If you are choosing a tapered shade, this will be the base diameter, taken from one side to the other. This will always be at the widest point of the lampshade. The top and bottom diameters will be the same for the circular drum style. 


A tripod floor lamp, on the other hand, is an entirely distinct thing. It will be necessary to balance the size of the lamp shade with the significantly greater footprint created by the three legs. 


  1. Lamp Positioning

Is your lamp going to be the centre of attention, with plenty of space surrounding it? Then everything is up to you! You can simply choose any size that suits your lamp and any style that you desire. 


Or will your lamp be hidden in a corner? If so, you should consider a more space-saving option. If you have a slim column lamp, you can choose a lower diameter, but it will require a greater height to balance the lamp base. This is where the minimum 40cm diameter guideline does not apply. 


  1. Lampshade Style

Lamp shades are available in a variety of shapes. Therefore, it can give you many choices on occasion. Here are some examples of lampshade styles:


  • Circular Drum: It is a lampshade with straight sides and identical top and bottom diameters. Its modern style gives a contemporary feel and enables a lot of light to shine from the top and bottom of the shade.


  • Tapered: Also known as the French Drum. The top and bottom diameters of this form are smaller, giving it a smooth taper. This shade design is more timeless and complements solid-coloured lamp shades and traditional textiles well.


  • Oval: Talking about space saving? This is where the Oval style comes in! Floor lamps positioned adjacent to walls benefit from this shape, having a shade with a depth considerably deeper than its breadth.


  • Steeply Tapered: Empire lampshades exhibit a rather pronounced taper, with the top diameter being substantially smaller than the diameter at the bottom. This lamp style is more generally suited to a table lamp. But when selecting a new lampshade, your personal preference is always important.


  • Square: At last, the Square! The cube illusion is produced by each side having the same height and length. This design works well with floor lamps that are square or rectangular and have complementary corners on the shade and lamp base.


5. Lampshade Linings

When selecting your floor lampshade, the final thing to think about is how it will be viewed. The interior of the shade is seen from below because floor lamps have a higher view than table lampshades. Will your lamp be situated next to a seat or sofa? If so, making a feature of the lampshade lining can be an actual design feature for someone seated beneath it. If that's the case, highlighting the lampshade lining can be a great design feature for anyone sitting beneath it.


Conclusion

Selecting a lampshade that perfectly complements a floor lamp involves crafting a unique blend of aesthetic appeal, function, and atmospheric glow. Still unsure which size and style to choose? Visit Printique Decor, where experts are ready to assist with all your lampshade queries. Explore a massive range of stylish options, including charming honey bee lights that add warmth and the perfect finishing touch to your floor lamp.


FAQs


Will any lampshade fit any lamp?

The lamp does not match every shade. Look at some factors to consider for the compatibility of lamp and shade:


  • Size Matters: The proportions of the lamp and shade should match for a well-balanced appearance. 

  • Fitting Type: Different lampshades require different fitting techniques.


What is the rule for floor lamp shades?

As a general rule of thumb, a floor lamp's shade should be at least 45 cm (18 inches) in diameter at the base. 


What is a lampshade used for?

Shade is often applied to light fixtures randomly to tone down the brightness for observers and protect bulbs from surrounding elements.

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