You’ve found the perfect lampshade – now it’s time to let the rest of the room fall in line. A bold shade can set the mood, shape the palette, and basically boss the whole space about (in the best possible way). Here’s how to style your interiors around one glorious lampshade…
How can a single lampshade transform a space?
We tend to think of lamp shades as finishing touches – the icing on the cake. But a dramatic shade is more like the cake stand: it elevates everything else. The right one can be a striking focal point, shifting the atmosphere, injecting personality, and setting the tone for the whole room.
Using a statement lampshade as your interior design inspiration
A single lampshade can provide all the design inspiration you need. Whether you’ve already found “the one” or are still playing the field, here are some ideas to help your shade lead the way…
Create a mini mood board
Shades come in every shape, size, material, colour and pattern imaginable – each one casting not just light, but attitude. To get the look right, build a mini mood board around your chosen shade. Pick out the key tones, patterns and textures and echo them across soft furnishings and accessories. Need inspiration? Scour Instagram, Pinterest, design mags – or just keep your eyes open in favourite cafés, galleries and (of course) Pooky’s interiors blog.
Set the tone with colour
A statement lampshade is a brilliant way to introduce colour. From zingy brights to subtle pastels, your shade can dictate the palette for the rest of the room. For harmony, work with tonal accents through cushions, rugs and artwork. For contrast, go bold – think clashing brights or complementary pops that liven up the whole scheme.
Shift the mood with materials
The fabric of a lampshade changes everything. Different lampshade materials not only diffuse the light differently, they also create a different feeling – for example, silk lampshades suggest an air of luxury and drama, while linen lampshades have a natural, rustic charm, and a sleek pendant in metal or card feels sleek and modern. Material doesn’t just filter the light – it signals the mood of the room.
Create drama with pattern
Patterns add instant theatre. A zig-zag, ikat or stripe can make a space feel energetic and graphic; florals and abstracts add softness and flow. Carry the motif through with wallpaper, cushions or rugs, or mix different patterns in a unifying colour palette for a layered, eclectic feel.
Make a statement with a contrasting lampshade
Design “rules” suggest matching shade styles to décor: empire with classic, geometric with modern, etc. But sometimes the fun begins when you throw the rulebook out the window. A big, bold drum shade in vibrant silk, for example, can give a traditional setting an unexpected contemporary twist.
A single lampshade really can inspire an entire room – pulling colours, textures and moods together with style and confidence.
Still hunting for your perfect shade? Explore our full collection of beautiful, affordable designer lampshades.
