You’ve got a lovely floor lamp – but how do you find the shade of the perfect size, shape and design to go with it, and make your sitting room sing? Here’s an expert guide…
Pairing lamps with lampshades is part art, part science. In fact, you read the comprehensive guide to choosing a lampshade for any kind of lamp here. But here are some specific things to think about for standing lamps…
Getting the shade size right
The general rule of thumb is that a shade for a floor lamp should be 45cm (18 inches) or larger at the diameter of its base. That will give it a sensible proportion relative to the lamp base.
However, when picking a shade you also need to think about where it's going to go: a very large shade won’t work in a small room with a bit of clutter, whereas in a large empty space it may be a case of the bigger the better.
See all of our large lampshades here.
Getting the shade shape right
Of course all sorts of weird and wonderful shapes are available – but in general square shades and so on are best left for table lamps. For floor lamps you’re generally looking at one of these three shapes...
Empire – the traditional shape, great for fabric shades, vintage looks and so on.
Straight Empire – like the Empire, a ‘frustrum’ shape (i.e. a cone cut across the top) but with a steeper slope. The Straight Empire is very versalite and works in all kinds of styles and materials
Drum – a sleeker, more modern shape, really good for contemporary coloured silks.
Choosing a lampshade material
Cottons and linens
With a pleated ‘gathered’ cotton shade you get that lovely, cosy vintage look. On the other hand, a rolled cotton shade, block-printed in a contemporary pattern, can look very smart.
Similarly, linens can vary from lovely traditional-looking Arts & Crafts patterns to fabulous bold Ikats.
Silks
For a luxurious, lustrous sheen, you can’t beat dupion silk - wonderful in strong colours or oozing sophistication in a neutral.
Card
We love our hand painted card shades: each one is unique, and they're beautifully understated so they work in any environment.
Finding the lampshade style for your room
Changing the shade for your floor lamp from time to time is a great, inexpensive way to freshen up your room’s look and feel. So do you go for a striking Ikat pattern on a large shade for a statement floor lamp, or a more subtle ivory printed silk to sit elegantly and unobtrusively in the corner? Well that depends on your taste and your room. But here’s some inspiration…
And finally, for a very different texture, how about this enviable reading nook designed so beautifully by @sarahbrowninteriors featuring our Ned standing lamp with one of our Rattan shades?... Feely!
Browse our full range of large lampshades here and our many gorgeous floor lamps here.
Image top: Coronet floor lamp in amber polished resin with straight empire shade
in St Clements Egg & Spoon silk ikat
