Like all decorative elements in your home, the choice of your lampshade must be based on a certain number of criteria. The color, the shape, the style, but also the size. In this article, we will help you choose your lamp so that it brings to your room the touch that you like.

The golden rules: take dimensions into account
When you have the idea of your lampshade in mind, you must take into account the dimensions . Here, everything can get complicated. The ideal would always be to choose the standard size and shape , but that does not prevent you from going beyond and opting for original styles. All the more so if the style of your decoration leans towards originality and contemporary.
The size of your lampshade should depend on its use. For a bedside lampshade, it is recommended to choose a model with a diameter of approximately 25 cm. For a floor lamp or lamp base exceeding 60 cm in height, it is recommended to opt for a lampshade with a diameter of approximately 45 cm.

Choose the size of your lampshade according to the base of the lighting
- For a model with a thin base , the choice still depends on the shape of the lampshade.
- For the bedside table, choose a lampshade with a round base . The diameter of the bottom should be the same as the height of the lamp base.
- If you choose a square lampshade , the length of the front of your lampshade should match the height of your lamp base.
- For a model with a bulky foot , you also have two criteria to take into account.
- Take the widest part of the foot, add 5 cm on each side. This will give you the standard diameter of a circular lampshade.
- The technique is the same with a lampshade with a rectangular base. Add 5 cm on each side of the foot to have the dimension of the front of your lampshade. Let your lamp breathe for the side facade.

The retractor: an important element in measuring a lampshade
In addition to measuring the dimensions, you must also take into account the measurement of the recess . This is the part that goes up into the lampshade and is used to support the bulb. With standard structures, the height of the recess is 4 cm. You must take this information into account, especially when choosing your bulb. Otherwise, it may protrude or be too engulfed.
To measure the classic recess, start by measuring the straight height between the fixing washer and the bottom of the lampshade. Whether you are looking for a larger or smaller recess , this is always possible.
It's up to you to specify in your research the criteria that will impact your choice. With a specific insert, take the measurement on the right height between the fixing washer and the top of the lampshade.

Choose your lampshade by its shape
Apart from the size measurement, the shape also counts a lot in choosing the lampshade. The shapes always vary depending on the base. If you choose a lampshade with a round base, the most suitable shapes are the conical, drum, empire, round and oval lampshade . Each of these shapes adapts to a specific room or atmosphere.
Along with rectangular lampshades, the most common shapes are rectangular, square, and pyramid square lampshades. These lampshades are best suited for shallow furniture and classic decorating styles.

Colors: another selection criterion
If the size and shape of the lampshade are the main selection criteria, the choice of colors is also an essential step. Printed, plain, colored, neutral tones… the choice of colors is completely subjective .
In general, neutral tones are best suited to light-colored rooms and living rooms. Colorful tones (printed or solid) are more commonly used for bedrooms.
Be aware that the color of your lampshade impacts the brightness produced. In a brighter decor, favor lighter tones. In more subdued atmospheres, opt for darker tones.
If you have any doubts about your choice, do not hesitate to ask for advice from professionals in the field.
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