Whether brightening up an entire room or providing gentle illumination for reading in bed, lamps play an important role in your home’s lighting. But it’s important to note that lamps aren’t just about function—they also play an important part in the overall design of your living space. Since lamp shade choice influences both of these factors, it’s important to consider your options carefully. If you aren’t able to find a suitable choice in stores, it may be better to hire a professional to make a custom shade. In either situation, here are a few different ways you can make sure you get the right product for your needs.

How Big Should My Lamp Shade Be?

For proper proportions, the height should be about two-thirds that of the lamp base.  The maximum width of the shade should extend about one-half of an inch over the widest point of the base.

In terms of safety, you’ll also want to make sure the shade is big enough to handle the heat produced by the wattage of the bulbs you use. Hotter bulbs, for example, are often best with shorter, broader, and more open options.

Lastly, your lamp shade should be big enough to accommodate the specific lighting you’re going for. If you’re looking to illuminate a wide area for many people, it’s best to go with a shade with a broad bottom. Accent lighting, on the other hand, usually pairs better with smaller coverings.   

What Shape Will Match My Lamp?

Typically, consumers will want coverings that match their interior. For example, those who are going for a more traditional look often prefer the classic design of an “empire” shade, which fan out at the bottom. If you’re after a more modern aesthetic, opt for a shade with sleek lines—such as a square, drum, or oval shape.

The amount of space you have is also important to consider, as broad areas can usually support lamps with wide covers—such as hexagon, drum, or empire varieties. If you’re limited on space, invest in something more compact. 

What Color Lamp Shade Is Best?

If you want brighter illumination, stick to light colors like white, yellow, or beige. If you prefer a more subdued effect, darker colors that block light—such as navy blue and red—are ideal. Custom lighting professionals can also introduce you to a variety of patterned fabrics and materials that may closely match the look of your furniture or wallpaper.

When you want to outfit your home with one-of-a-kind lighting options, look no further than Palette Studios in Cincinnati, OH. With more than 100 years of experience, this specialist can craft custom lamp shades to fit your specific preferences—including products that feature unique patterns and materials. Beyond shades, this team also offers many other services to brighten your home—including custom lighting solutions, floor lamps, and lighting repair. Visit this provider online to learn more about their resources; or, call (513) 961-1316 to request assistance with your project.