A lampshade is one of the easiest ways to quickly change the look and feel of any room. With just a simple swap of lampshade styles, you can transform the decor without a major renovation. Here’s how lampshades can shine for quick decor updates.
Choosing Lampshades for Maximum Impact
When selecting a lampshade, consider the following factors for maximum decor impact:
Size
- Choose a lampshade proportional to the lamp base for visual balance. An oversized or undersized shade will look awkward.
- For table lamps, look for shades that are about 2/3 the height of the base for ideal proportions.
- For floor lamps, select a shade that is 1/2 to 2/3 the height of the pole.
Shape
- Drum, empire, bell and rectangle shaped shades offer classic and versatile options.
- For traditional decor, consider pleated or tapered empire shades.
- For contemporary spaces, try cylinder, rectangle or drum shades.
- Angle the lampshade slightly upward to create a visually pleasing glow.
Color
- Solid colors make a strong statement and define a color palette.
- Patterned lampshades softly blend hues and prints for bohemian flair.
- Metallics, such as gold, rose gold and silver, add glam and shine.
- Opt for white lampshades to keep things clean and bright.
- Choose lampshades that coordinate or match your room’s color scheme.
Material
- Fabric shades diffuse light softly for cozy illumination. Go for cotton, linen, silk or velvet.
- Paper shades offer crisp lighting effects and come in various textures.
- Metallic materials like nickel or brass make a sparkling statement.
- Glass and acrylic lampshades lend modern transparency.
Updating Lampshades Room by Room
Swap out lampshades in any room for an instant style pick-me-up. Here are quick decor tips for refreshing shades in key rooms:
Living Room
Invigorate a tired living room by:
- Choosing colorful or patterned shades that introduce vibrancy.
- Coordinating shades with pillows and throws for a pulled together look.
- Adding lampshades in on-trend shapes like rectangles or diplomats.
- Mixing drum and empire shapes for eclectic variety.
Bedroom
Give the bedroom a mini makeover by:
- Opting for tranquil colors like white, tan, pale blue or gray.
- Layering soft fabric shades like linen, velvet or silk for a cozy vibe.
- Using matching shades on both nightstands to create a unified look.
- Updating bedside lamps with tapered empire shades.
Home Office
Enhance productivity in the home office with:
- Slim drum or cylinder shapes that don’t distract.
- Crisp white shades that encourage focus.
- Smaller shades that don’t overwhelm the desk.
- Metal shades that add sleek modern flair.
Dining Room
Set the mood in the dining room by:
- Choosing shades in the main dining color for cohesion.
- Using dimmable smart shades to set ambiance.
- Adding a stylish buffet lamp with an eye-catching bell shade.
- Layering glass and fabric shades for eclectic charm.
Quick Shade Makeovers for Maximum Impact
With just a simple shade swap, you can give any room an instant mini makeover. Here are quick lampshade projects for decor updates on a budget:
Modernize Traditional Decor
Swap frilly pleated shades for clean-lined cylinders or rectangles. The sleek shapes modernize cozy traditional rooms.
Warm Up Modern Spaces
Introduce organic texture with linen, silk or velvet shades. The natural fabrics soften sharp, sleek rooms.
Brighten Dark Rooms
Choose white or light colored shades to reflect more light in dim spaces. Use lighter shades on table lamps near seating areas.
Add Youthful Flair
Inject colorful, patterned or metallic shades. They add pops of personality for youthful, fun rooms.
Unify Eclectic Decor
Tie disparate room styles together with matching shades in a coordinating color or finish. Consistent shades pull rooms together.
Spotlight Specific Areas
Use directional brass swing-arm sconces to highlight artwork. Position rigged drum shades to spotlight reading nooks.
Style Your Space with Shade Variety
For the most stylish decor impact, layer shades of different shapes, sizes, materials and designs. Some tips:
- Mix drum, empire, bell and rectangle shapes for eclectic flair.
- Blend fabric and paper or glass shades for cozy and sleek combo.
- Use shades in the same color family but different hues for subtle coordination.
- Combine matte and glossy shades for sheen variety.
- Scatter small accent shades throughout bigger shades for diversity.
- Introduce metallic shades for pops of glam and shine.
Lampshade Design Trends
Here are some of the hottest current lampshade trends for inspired decor updates:
Geometric Shapes
Octagons, triangles and trapezoids provide angular flair.
Textured Materials
Shades made from rattan, jute, woven woods or concrete add natural surface interest.
Bold Patterns
Eye-catching graphics, florals and abstract prints make a statement.
Fringe Trims
Long fringes lend bohemian texture and movement.
Mixed Metallics
Combining gold, silver, bronze and copper shades creates glam sparkle.
Vintage Styles
Updated versions of classic mid-century, Bauhaus, atomic or retro lampshades.
Final Takeaways
Lampshade upgrades are an easy DIY way to quickly refresh your room’s style. So explore inventive new lampshade looks to illuminate and transform your home decor. With the right shades, you can set the perfect mood in any room.
