How To Choose A Lampshade – A Guide To Sizes
March 1, 2025
How often have you thought ‘what size lampshade do I need for my lamp base? I often receive enquiries about how to choose the right size lampshade for a lamp base. While there are general ‘rules,’ this is not an exact science.
How often have you thought ‘what size lampshade do I need for my lamp base? I often receive enquiries about how to choose the right size lampshade for a lamp base. While there are general ‘rules,’ this is not an exact science at all, and often it is purely by eye or with a specific design idea in mind.
I know that deciding on the right shade can be a little confusing, especially if you look at the advice on the ratios between lamp base and shade diameter. This article is not about styles, as there are so many style of shade available, but purely focusing on size guidance.
But like most things with interior design, there are no right or wrong decisions here. All there is, is guidance and your own instinct. And with that in mind, this article is purely that, guidance and then you can use your instinct to make that all important final decision.
Helen Izzard is a Somerset based interior design studio, creating timeless, quietly elegant interiors, using natural materials to create designs with longevity. We offer bespoke interior design services, made to measure curtains, roman blinds, cushions, lampshades, footstools, headboards & accessories, alongside a beautiful range of curtain poles, fabrics & wallpapers to order.
As a general rule, the most pleasing of proportions when choosing a lampshade, is that the shade should be approximately a quarter to two thirds of the size of your lamp base.
I often recommend finding another lampshade in your home, which is a comparable size, and try it, as this is a handy way to make final decisions.
The General Rule
The most important measurement is the diameter of the shade, which in most lampshades is the bottom ring of the shade. The height of the base, which should be measured up to the base of the light bulb holder, should equal the diameter of the shade. The height of the shade should be approximately three quarters the height of the base.
I find this rule does not always work! There are bases such tall slim candlesticks, which often look amazing with very small shades, showing that the general rules are not always suitable or preferred.
Ultimately, the size of shade will always be determined by personal preference, the height of the piece of furniture that the lamp will sit on, and the size of the room, as well as the style of the room.
Large rooms with high ceilings will often need a large shade or tall base, however in small cottages where the ceilings are much lower, the opposite will be preferred, a lamp that is smaller or even petite in size.
The Most Popular Sizes of Lampshades
Tiny Lampshades
These are beautiful petite shades, usually around 10cm or 15cm or 4” or 6”in diameter, which work so well with tiny wall mounted lights. They have a small candle clip fitting so simply sit on top of the bulb. You often see them in small cottage room with low ceilings.
The 15cm or 6” diameter shades are especially suited to petite lamp bases too, usually a base that is approximately 25cm or 10” high works well with this size.
Small Lampshades
I always consider small shades as 20cm or 8” in diameter and the are ideally suited to lamps up to 30cm or 12” tall. We often use these as little bedside lamps, or on slim furniture in halls, such as console tables.
I often use this size on single wall mounted lights, in slightly larger rooms, as they add a cosy atmosphere to rooms with a little more space.
Medium Lampshades
Two very versatile size shades are 25cm or 10” and 30cm or 12” shades, for larger lamp bases of around 45cm or 18” tall. They work well with bases between 35cm – 55cm, depending upon the style and size of the base. But overall, these are one of my ‘go-to’ sizes for many rooms.
Large Lampshades
Again, two very versatile shade sizes, 25cm or 14” and 40cm or 16” shades. Ideally suited for much larger lamp bases of around 45-55cm in height. But again, this also depends upon the style and size of the base. These are more statement piece lamps, so it is important to choose a fabric that compliments the room. These sizes are also often used as ceiling pendent lights.
Extra Large Lampshades
These very large lampshades are most definitely suited to floor standing lamp bases and sometimes as ceiling pendants. At 45cm to 50cm diameter (18-20”), these shades have huge visual impact and can be used to create a statement lamp or often used as an understated lighting piece of furniture. I have made many shades as large as 60cm diameter (24”), using beautiful statement linens, and finished with trimmings to finish the edges. There are some beautiful and very traditional lampshade frames available in these much larger sizes
Surprisingly, it can sometimes be much more difficult to decide on the correct size for your lamp base, purely due to the scale of size. So it is important to match the lampshade size and shape alongside the height of the base, and to combine these decisions with the size of the room and the position of the lamp within the room.
If you would like help with your bespoke lampshades, or if you would love some help in designing your home, please do contact at [email protected] or contact here.
I look forward to working with you.
