The Golden Rule of Lampshade Sizing
The right lampshade size depends on your lamp’s height, shape, and where it will sit. As a starting point:
- Shade height: about ½ to ⅔ the height of the lamp base
- Shade width (bottom diameter): roughly equal to, or slightly wider than, the lamp’s widest point
- Shade shape: should mirror or complement the base (round with round, square with square)
Tip: A shade that’s just a touch wider or taller than expected can look deliberate and designer, but if space is tight, err on the smaller side for a neat, tailored look.
How to Measure for a Custom Lampshade
Measure your base height — from the bottom of the lamp to the bottom of the bulb socket (not including the bulb).
Calculate your shade height: aim for around half to two-thirds of that measurement.
Check the width: your shade’s bottom diameter should be equal to or slightly larger than the lamp’s widest point.
Think about placement: if it’s for a bedside or console, a slightly smaller shade often fits better visually.
Choose your shape: echo the form of the base for harmony, or contrast it for a contemporary twist.
These proportions help your custom lampshade feel balanced and ensure the hardware (socket, bulb, harp) stays subtly hidden.
Why Proportion Matters
Proportion gives a lamp its visual “rightness.”
When the shade and base work together, the lamp feels calm, grounded, and cohesive — a subtle but powerful detail that defines a well-designed space.
At Lucas Miles Atelier, we often see that a carefully chosen shade can completely transform an old base or make a modern lamp feel timeless.
Choosing the Right Shade Shape
Shape sets the tone for both style and light quality:
| Lamp Base | Recommended Shade Shape | Visual Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Round or curved base | Round or empire shade | Classic and balanced |
| Square or angular base | Square or rectangular shade | Modern and structured |
| Slim column base | Drum shade | Contemporary and clean |
| Wide or sculptural base | Tapered shade | Elegant and grounded |
Mixing shapes can work beautifully too — a round base with a squared shade can add personality when done with intention.
Material and Mood
The material and finish of a lampshade have a huge influence on the light and atmosphere of a room. At Lucas Miles Atelier, we specialise in fabric and wallpaper shades, allowing you to express your personal style through texture, pattern, and tone.
- Fabric shades → as beautiful and as fabulous as the fabric selected. Create a soft, warm, and welcoming glow or an interesting focal point - the ultimate statement piece.
- Wallpaper shades → introduce pattern and personality, turning a lamp into a decorative feature even when it’s switched off.
- Contrasting interiors → brushed gold, crisp white, or a pop of colour inside the shade can completely change the mood when illuminated.
Your choice of material isn’t just aesthetic — it defines how the lamp interacts with its surroundings. A linen shade might bring calm softness, while a patterned wallpaper shade adds bold character and charm.
In Summary: Lampshade Size Guide
| Element | Real-World Guideline |
|---|---|
| Shade height | ½ – ⅔ of base height |
| Shade width | Equal to or slightly wider than base’s widest point |
| Shade shape | Match or complement base |
| Style | Consider light quality, colour, and interior finish |
Create Your Perfect Custom Lampshade
At Lucas Miles Atelier in La Herradura, we handcraft bespoke lampshades using carefully sourced fabrics and wallpapers. Whether you’re reviving a vintage lamp or designing a made-to-measure shade for your home, we’ll help you find the ideal proportions, materials, and finish to create balance and warmth.
Visit our atelier or get in touch to start your custom lampshade design.