The Benefits of Decorative and Functional Lamp Shades
Lamp shades may seem like a purely decorative accessory, but they actually serve important functions. The right lamp shade can direct and diffuse light, create ambiance, and pull together your room's style. Here's an overview of the benefits of using both decorative and functional lamp shades in your home lighting.
Softening Harsh Light
One of the main purposes of a lamp shade is to soften and diffuse the light from a bulb. Bare bulbs can create harsh glares and shadows. Lamp shades act as a filter to provide softer, more ambient light throughout a room.
- Opaque fabric shades offer the most diffusion for soft, glowing light
- Translucent materials like rice paper or glass allow some light through while still diffusing it
Directing the Light
Different lamp shade shapes direct light in different ways:
| Lamp Shade Shape | Light Direction |
|---|---|
| Drum | Directs light downward |
| Empire | Directs light upward to reflect off the ceiling |
| Bell | Directs light both upward and downward |
So consider the lighting needs of the room when choosing a shade silhouette.
Creating Ambiance
The color and material of a lamp shade impacts the overall mood and ambiance of a room.
- Light colors like white and beige give a soft, airy feeling
- Bold or dark shades make a dramatic style statement
- Patterned or textured fabrics provide visual interest
Mix and match lamp shades as accents to create the ambiance you want for any space.
Complementing Room Decor
Since they are a visible part of any room, lamp shades should coordinate with your overall decor. Consider the following when matching lamp shades to your style:
- Color palette
- Patterns and textures
- Style of room decor (modern, transitional, traditional, etc)
- Materials that complement other accents like curtains and furniture
Choosing the right lamp shades can elevate a room's decor by pulling everything together into a cohesive style.
Lamp shades are available in a wide range of materials, shapes, colors and designs to not only diffuse light but also enhance the ambiance and style of any room. Consider both the functional lighting needs and decorative details when choosing new shades. With the right lampshade, you can take your room lighting from plain to extraordinary.
Choosing the Right Lamp Shade Size and Shape
The size and shape of a lamp shade affects both the bulb coverage and the direction the light is cast. Follow these tips to choose the perfect lampshade proportions for your lighting needs.
Match Shade Size to Lamp Base
First, the lampshade must properly fit the lamp itself. General size guidelines:
- Table lamp shades: 8-16 inches tall
- Floor lamp shades: 18-24 inches tall
- Desk lamp shades: 6-12 inches tall
Shades should be 3-4 inches wider at the bottom than the lamp base width. For example, a 10 inch base would need a 13-14 inch bottom lampshade diameter. This overhang helps soften and distribute the light.
Factor in Bulb Shape and Size
The shade must cover the entire light bulb to diffuse the light properly. Common bulb types and minimum shade heights:
| Bulb Type | Minimum Shade Height |
|---|---|
| A19 standard bulb | 4 inches |
| Globe bulb | 6 inches |
| Candle bulb | 3 inches |
Know your light bulb before shopping for shades to ensure full coverage.
Direct the Light with Shape
The silhouette of the shade affects light direction:
- Drum shade - Cylindrical shape directs light straight downward, good for task lighting
- Empire shade - Wide top and narrow bottom casts light up toward the ceiling, creating ambient glow
- Bell shade - Curved shape sends light both up and down
Consider what you will mainly use the lamp for. Bell shades are versatile for reading or ambiance. Drum shades are optimal for desks and work areas. Empire shades lend cozy, decorative light to living rooms.
Match Shade Style to Room Decor
Beyond function, the lamp shade style should coordinate with your room's aesthetics. For example:
- Minimalist rooms suit simple white drum shades
- Traditional rooms can use faceted glass for elegance
- Rustic rooms match woven burlap textures
You can mix and match shades on multi-light lamps to complement all the finishes in one space.
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Consider Proportions
Finally, the lampshade proportions should fit the scale of the room and other furniture. A too-small shade can get lost, while an oversized shade can be visually overwhelming and block useful light. Get the size and shape right for both function and an attractive fixture. With the right lampshade proportions for your space and decor, you can take your lighting from basic to beautiful.
Lamp Shades to Match Your Room's Style
Lamp shades bring together a room's decor by reflecting the color scheme, textures, and overall aesthetic. Here's how to choose the perfect shades to match some popular decorating styles.
Traditional Style
The traditional look prides itself on sophistication and elegance. Lamp shades should complement the opulence.
- Crystal pleated shades for glamour
- Silk shades with tailored pleats or gathers
- Embellished fabric shades like damask or tapestry
For a study or library, try parchment-style paper or leather. Pick glossy black or brass bases for traditional refinement.
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Contemporary Style
The clean lines of modern decor shine with simple lampshade silhouettes. Stick to one shape for cohesion:
- White drum shades for bright minimalism
- Cylindrical opaque shades in bold colors
- Minimalist square or rectangular linen shades
A clear glass or acrylic shade maintains the modern look while softly diffusing light. Nickel or chrome fixtures enhance the contemporary vibe.
Rustic Style
Rustic rooms full of reclaimed wood and textiles are perfectly matched with lamp shades made from natural materials like:
- Woven jute, burlap or rope
- Genuine parchment paper
- Raw cotton with visible texture
Intricate patterns like chevron add interest. Handmade ceramics like terracotta make excellent base choices.
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Eclectic Style
For a room mixing various eras and aesthetics, showcase an assortment of shades:
- Colorful patterned fabric on one lamp
- Sleek midcentury plastic on another
- Cool wire frame or chain links for an industrial vibe
The eclectic look has complete creative freedom - any combination goes. Play with different textures, shapes and materials for your personalized statement.
Coastal Style
Conjure breezy seaside vibes with shades in colors like:
- Aqua blues
- Sandy tans and sea glass greens
- Crisp whites
Woven abaca fiber and natural jute add texture. Bleached driftwood bases complete the coastal charm.
You can find a lampshade to complement any style if you know the right shapes, materials and colors to match. Choose shades that enhance your existing room decor for a pulled-together look. Mix and match to really make your lighting fixtures shine.
Lighting Solutions for Every Room
Proper lighting is essential for function and ambiance in any home. Here are tips for selecting lamp styles tailored to the needs of specific rooms.
Living Room
Illuminate conversation areas with:
- Table lamps next to sofas and armchairs
- Floor lamps in corners to soften shadows
- Pendant lights over coffee tables
Use dimmers to adjust brightness for TV watching versus reading. Layer in different lamp heights to create a cozy glow.
Bedroom
Bedrooms need layered bedside and overhead lighting:
- Table lamps on nightstands for late night reading
- Sconces flanking the bed for atmosphere
- Ceiling fixtures like flush mounts or chandeliers
Use a dimmer switch on overhead lights to control brightness levels.
Kitchen
Kitchen lighting should enable food prep while setting ambiance:
- Pendant lights over islands and counters
- Under cabinet lighting for task visibility
- Overhead lighting on dimmers to adjust from cooking to dining
Go for high lumens and color rendering for accurate food appearance.
Dining Room
Lighting for dining rooms should set the mood without glaring in diners' eyes. Options include:
- A stunning chandelier over the dining table
- Wall sconces to add ambient light
- Dimmable overhead lighting
Use lower wattage bulbs in fixtures to avoid harsh glare.
Home Office
Create an optimal work environment with:
- Desk lamps positioned close to work areas
- Overhead lighting on dimmers
- Accent lighting, like floor lamps in reading nooks
Place desk lamps to avoid screen glare. Minimize blue light in the evenings.
The right lighting provides both visual clarity and design harmony in any room. Layer fixtures at various heights and intensities tailored to the room's use and dimensions.
How to get an Amazon Prime subscription for a profit in "Lamps & Shades"
An Amazon Prime membership can provide great perks and savings when shopping for lighting. Here are some tips to maximize the value of a Prime subscription for lamps and lamp shades purchases:
Take advantage of free shipping
With Prime, you get free two-day shipping on millions of products, including most lamp and lampshade listings sold directly by Amazon. This saves on shipping costs, especially for large floor lamps or multiple shades.
Utilize free returns
Prime members can return eligible items for free within 30 days of delivery. This makes it risk-free to order lamps and shades to try out at home before deciding if they work for your space. Return anything that isn't quite right at no extra cost.
Access special deals and discounts
Amazon frequently offers special promotions exclusively for Prime members. Keep an eye out for discounts or coupon codes for lighting brands and products. You may find significant savings only accessible to Prime subscribers.
Earn rewards with the Prime credit card
The Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Card provides 5% back on all Amazon purchases for Prime members. Earn rewards to apply to future Amazon orders when you use the card to pay for lamps, shades or other home upgrades.
Buy discounted open-box items
Search for open-box lamp and lampshade deals. Amazon Warehouse sells returned items in excellent condition at heavily reduced prices. Prime members get an extra 30% off Warehouse products for even more savings.
Share benefits with family
With Amazon Household, two adults and up to four teens/children can share Prime benefits. Split the annual cost between family members to save. Then enjoy combined free shipping when ordering lighting fixtures and shades.
Start maximizing the perks of an Amazon Prime membership, and you can illuminate your home in style while still saving on your lighting purchases.
Find The Perfect Lamp For Your Home Decor
Choosing the perfect lamp for your home decor can be a daunting task, but with these tips and recommendations, you can find the perfect one for your space:
- Consider your home interior, wall color scheme, furnishings, and artwork when choosing a lamp.
- Look for lamps that not only illuminate your rooms but also layer light just like we layer decor.
- Check out the 7 best home lamps to light up your space, including the Brightech Carter LED Floor Lamp.
- Browse a wide selection of decorative lamps for sale on Houzz, including task lamps, floor lamps, table lamps, bedside lamps, touch lamps, and oil lamps.
- Check out the best table lamps of 2023, including the CB2 Pogo Brass and Cane Table Lamp and the Hudson Valley Lighting Lancaster Table Lamp.
- Look for battery-operated table lamps that are cordless and decorative, such as those available on Amazon.
- Consider lamps that can pull double duty as a decorative element while casting your space in a warm glow, such as the Rex table lamp from Urban Electric or the Anthropologie 12-inch lamp with an abstract, thick-legged base.
What Are Some Popular Lamp Styles For Home Decor?
There are many popular lamp styles for home decor, and here are some of them:
- Buffet lamps: These tall, narrow lamps are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to a dining room or buffet table.
- Arc lamps: These lamps have a curved arm that extends over a seating area, making them perfect for reading or providing ambient light.
- Tripod lamps: These lamps have three legs and a shade that sits on top, making them a stylish and functional addition to any room.
- Swing arm lamps: These lamps have an adjustable arm that can be moved to direct light where it's needed, making them perfect for reading or working.
- Torchiere floor lamps: These lamps have a tall, narrow base and a bowl-shaped shade that directs light upwards, making them perfect for providing ambient light in a room.
- Tree lamps: These lamps have multiple branches that extend out from a central trunk, making them perfect for providing ambient light in a room.
- Crystal table lamps: These lamps are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to a room, and they come in a variety of styles and sizes.
- Gold and mercury lamps: These lamps are perfect for adding a touch of glamour to a room, and they come in a variety of styles and sizes.
- Battery-operated table lamps: These lamps are perfect for adding light to a room without the need for an electrical outlet, and they come in a variety of styles and sizes.
- Abstract, thick-legged base lamps: These lamps are perfect for adding a touch of modernity to a traditional space, and they come in a variety of styles and sizes.
- Egg-shaped diffuser lamps: These lamps are perfect for use as a bedside nightlight, and they come in a variety of styles and sizes.
