When redecorating your home, one of the most important (and often overlooked) things to consider is lighting.
In fact, as an interior designer, lamps are one of my favorite room accessories. No design is complete until the lamps and shades are in place illuminating the room.
If you have a lamp base that’s in good working condition, there’s no need to get rid of it just to match your new decor. An easy redecorating fix is simply replacing the shade!
Lamp Shade Basics
To determine the correct height, a shade should be about 2/3 the height of the lamp base. Make sure the shade covers the socket and switch.
As a general rule, the diameter of the bottom of the shade should be approximately 2x the width of the base. When shopping for a new shade, it’s best to take the lamp with you to the store. That way you can “try on” shades to determine the best shape, style and size.
Don’t forget the finishing touch—the finial, a small ornamental knob at the top of the lamp. Think of the finial as jewelry. You can find one in every color, finish, shape and style. Changing out the finial is another fast and easy way to revamp your lamp.
Lamp Transformations
Use these five looks as inspiration for your own redecorating scheme.
1. Gold Oval:
I started with a glass bowling pin-shaped lamp in a gray and white swirl pattern. My first solution is a gold “oval” shade in a pleated fabric.
The gold color offers a pretty contrast in this monochromatic room. I topped it off with an art-glass finial in a coordinating color. I would add pillows and decorative accessories in similar shades of gold to complete the room.
2. Soft Black:
A black shade offers contrast in most decorating schemes. Another option is a “square” shade. This one is a little smaller.
Keep in mind that black will diffuse the light much more than a pale color and illuminate the tabletop more than the room.
3. Classic White:
If you’re not sure what will work in your space, white or cream colors are always a safe bet. A traditional shape in a neutral color will go with any furniture style and color scheme. This hexagon shade has been updated with a bit of a curve for extra flair.
4. Gray Tapered Drum
A tapered drum shade is another classic style that will complement any design scheme. Gray is an on-trend neutral that goes with everything.
This shade matches the gray swirl of the lamp base and the surrounding decor for a chic monochromatic look.
5. Neutral Yet Unique
No one says you have to stick with traditional or basic styles. This gently curving rectangle paper shade has a unique look that updates the lamp into a modern accent. Contrasting trim defines the shape and the shade.
Don’t be afraid to switch things up as you shop for a new shade. The ideas are limitless!
Merri Cvetan is a Wisconsin interior designer who enjoys incorporating her crafting skills into decor projects. Merri writes on both design and crafting for Home Depot. You can find an array of lighting and shade options on the Home Depot website.
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