It’s easy to forget about lampshades when you’re designing or revamping a room. No-one really notices them, right?

Actually, the right lampshade can make a huge difference in a room. While the wrong shade can stand out awkwardly and make a space feel incoherent, the right shade will blend in smoothly, mesh with the room’s design style, create the right ambiance, and help you to use the space for its intended purpose.

Below, we’ll look at four key factors to consider when choosing the right lampshade for your space.

The size of a lampshade really matters because the wrong size of shade can draw the eye in a negative way. For the best effect, it should be in proportion with the table or standing lamp base, if any, as well as the size of the room and the space it’s illuminating.

With table lamps, it’s generally said that the shade should be twice the height of the lamp base. In other words, one third of the total height of the lamp is taken up by the shade. For most lamp bases, the shade’s diameter should be twice as wide as the base. However, if you have a very thin lamp base, make the shade’s diameter the same as the base’s height.

Lampshades are functional as well as visually appealing. Different shapes of lampshade direct light in different ways and create distinct moods, so the right lampshade can enhance the usefulness of the space.

For example, the classic empire lampshade, which is broader at the bottom than the top, is good for providing a focus of light down around its base. That’s why it’s used often on table lamps by sofas or beds, where a person may need light for reading.

In contrast, a drum-shaped shade creates light both upwards and directly down. This might be good for a row of pendant lights above a breakfast bar, as it will light the area below and add to a more dramatic appearance.

A spherical shade in paper would create brighter, more diffused ambient lighting. That might be good for a ceiling light that needs to illuminate a larger area.

Regarding table lamp shade shapes, one rule to go by is that a square-based table or standing lamp should always have a square shade, while a rounded lamp should have a shade that is in some way circular.

The colour of a lampshade affects the colour and strength of the light that filters through it. A dark shade in a heavy material will give you moodier, dimmer lighting, while a thin, white shade will give much more illumination. The warmth of a lampshade’s colour tone matters too, as it can make a space feel cold or warm through bluer or yellower light.

There’s a world of considerations to keep in mind when you’re choosing your lampshades. Rather than worrying over your choices, why not call on a professional who can direct you to the right shade in a flash?

With InteriorNet, it’s easy. We’ve created a platform to put you in touch with vetted and professional interior designers across the UK at no cost to you. Whatever your budget, our designers can help you get the bedroom, kitchen, or bathroom of your dreams. To start your search, just let us know your requirements, including your design choices, timeframe and location.

Ready to begin? Find your perfect interior designer with our simple tool to get expert insights on lampshades and so much more.