How to Measure a Lampshade

What is the best size lampshade for a table lamp?

As with all elements of a decorating scheme, getting the proportions right for a lamp-lampshade combination is vital; a table lamp shouldn’t be dwarfed by a giant shade or unbalanced by a small one.

To find the best size lampshade for a table lamp, start by measuring the height of the lamp base itself, using a tape measure (or ruler). When we say height, we mean from the bottom of the lamp base to the bottom of the rod – the rod and the bulb holder should not be included in this measurement. 

Once you have the height, it’s pretty simple: the golden rule for table lamp lampshades is that their width should be equal to the height of the lamp base. If your lamp’s dimensions are between two sizes of lampshade, choose the larger of the two as it looks better proportionally, and will distribute more light.

What size lampshade is best for a floor lamp?

As floor lamp designs are often tall and narrow, they work well with drum, empire, rectangular or square lampshades. In terms of the size of shade, however, the maths are marginally more complicated than the measurements used to determine a table-lamp pairing.

To determine what lampshade size you need for your floor lamp, measure the height of the lamp base – from the bottom all the way to the top of the bulb rod – then divide by four. This will give you an approximate height for the shade itself. Don’t forget to take into account how much room you have around your shade, as this will determine the width of the design. Remember, you can always go a size down if it makes the space feel tight, or it looks too close to other pieces of furniture – trust your eye.

How high (or low) should my lampshade sit?

It may seem like a silly thing to consider, but the height at which a lampshade sits on a lamp base can totally alter its effect, visually. As a general rule, the perfect sized lampshade hides the fittings underneath without encroaching upon the lamp base itself; in short, the shade should not take away from the design of the base.

Lampshade style: where measurements and aesthetics meet

Now you’ve worked out how to measure a lampshade to land the correct size, you need to decide on the right shape. From the classic gently angled lines of an empire shade to the more modern rectangular style, there’s a wide selection to choose from. If too much choice is the enemy of decision making, apply this thought: as a general rule of thumb, you should aim to mirror the shape of the base in your lampshade. So, if the base is straight, square or rectangular, it’s best if the lampshade reflects those lines – opt for a design that’s appropriately square or rectangular as well. If the base is tapered or round, a good option is a lampshade that is also sloping or rounded – think empire, drum or cone styles. Column lamps are the exception to the rule: they suit any shape of lampshade.

Beyond this, the other style features of a lampshade will also make a difference to how it fits a space – visually, as much as in terms of size. There are a few things you may want to consider, from colour and pattern choices, to the type of material the shade is crafted from.

What about the width of a lampshade – does that matter?

While the height of a lampshade is impacted by the design of the base, its width is often determined by the size of your space, and the location of the lamp itself within it. Consider where you will be positioning your lamp in the room – will there be plenty of space around it, or will it be in close proximity to a wall, a piece of furniture or placed near a well-used route through the room? If space is limited, it makes sense to choose a lamp base with a narrow profile and pair it with an equally narrow shade – that way it’s less likely to get knocked or damaged.