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Lampshade advice

6 years ago

Can anyone help me decide what color, type and shape of lampshade to use on my new lamp? I plan to mount an antique brass sconce on the opposite wall and I’m planning on black shades for it, so I wondered if black would be good here. Also considered a nubby linen look or a color or something??!...

I guess the main reason I’m wanting something other than white is because this wall really needs more contrast to my eye. I just got these etchings framed and I looove them, but they are a subtler look than I’m used to for this wall.

Disclaimers: I realize I need to paint and yes, that color of oak end table looks horrible with the couch. One thing at a time here; it’s a work in progress!

Featured Answer

annztoo

6 years ago

I think a soft pleated shad would go well with it. I love black shades but it may be too overpowering for that base. I think which shade works best will also depend on the style end table the lamp will be sitting on.

(I know you didn't ask, but IMO, that sofa could use a larger lamp)

Here are two examples:

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Comments (8)

PRO
Anglophilia
6 years ago
I don't know where you live, but even in smaller cities, there is usually still a small independent lamp ad shade shop. Take your lamp with you and "try-on" various shades. They usually have a huge stock and they know what works.
lmmcnitt
6 years ago
I don’t think the room would look good with 3 completely different shade colors. Since the lamp has color I’d be more inclined to go with something plainer like the floor lamp.
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That is odd the screw on shades are coming back when you can not buy the new replacement sockets. The old floor lamps usually had those uno fitter shades.It is good to know new ones are available as mine are really pretty raggity. I hope if you find them you will share the source. Black and white check sounds great. Would be very hard to paint. I could do it in glass easier then painting it. Abby is pretty but she is crazy as can be. We had her spayed in March and I think menopause is hitting her really hard. She is not very nice to be around lately. LOL At least she is acting how I felt when I was doing the menopause thing. Hehehehehe Right now she is biting the couch. I KNOW that feeling.
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In my opinion, the base of the shade is too narrow in diameter. If you want it more streamlined, I would avoid the scalloped edging and go for a more tailored shade. I would probably have the shade a couple of inches longer as well. I would use a style similar to the one at this link (no pleats, ruffles, etc) except I would get one that is plain rather than embellished with embroidery and make sure the color works with your lamp).shade style example
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Who decides how much white is too much, Barbara Griffith? Throughout the years, I think a few designers must have missed the memo that multiple shades of white were a fad. Vicente Wolf practically built a career on the look. Besides, with its dark furniture, I wouldn't consider this room an all-white room.
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The white lampshades are fine as far as color, though they look a little small to me. And yes to a patterned curtain - but not white. And please don't beige the room down any further! I agree with @Jan Moyer that your room is crying out for pops of color. You def need an assortment of colorful pillows on your sofa. I have a chocolate brown loveseat and only two of the five pillows on it have brown in them. But I wouldn't go with more browns and orange for pillows or curtains, unless the orange is clear and not too muted. Maybe some blues or greens or deep pinks or even a cranberry color? I love your coffee table but don't think it's helping the room here. It looks too high and the brown top is rather bulky (especially given the slender lines of your etagere, lamps, and side table) and not the right shade of brown, but maybe it would look better with a small area rug beneath it, layered on top of the carpet? Adding some plants would be an improvement, too.
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torreykm
6 years ago
I think something similar to this would be really nice. And I would stay with off-white.
oaktonmom
6 years ago
You didn’t ask, but your pictures over the sofa are hung too high. The little pictures to the right are too small. As far as the lamp goes, I’d get one of the pleated type shades posted above. I reallly think the problem is the framed art that doesn’t contrast enough with the wall color. I’d look for another place for the pictures and get something with more color above the sofa.
Bette P
6 years ago
I like the slight flare on this example, no pleating and the same colour as your floor lamp shade. Try a more vibrant throw for more colour.
Bette P
6 years ago
Have you considered navy shades instead of black for the sconces?
nancyjwb
Original Author
6 years ago
Anglo- I wish there was such a thing near here! I live in a very rural area, unfortunately.

immcnit and torrey- you’re probably right and I should go with a lighter neutral.

ann- I like the pleated shades you show. Nice and dressy. I agree with you that the lamp may be a bit undersized for my puffy couch. I have a taller stouter porcelain lamp I can switch out for if I decide to, it’s just not quite as pretty!

oakton- Jm so glad you mentioned the art is too high! You’re right and I hadn’t realized it. I’ll lower it tomorrow. I know you’re right, also, about the lack of contrast, but I’m so in love with my new babies I can’t consider anything else right now! (head in the sand, nah!) When I paint this room I will probably go with a bit of color on the walls.

bette- lovely lamp and shade, thanks for the suggestion. Also love the idea of a colorful throw. This one is an heirloom but it maybe could find another piece of furniture to live on:) I just made the floral pillow cover and it could use a more colorful companion as well. I like the idea of navy shades for the sconce, though they may be hard to find.

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