Lampshade Measuring Guide
Find the perfect size shade for your lamp.
At the end of the day, there’s no such thing as the “wrong” lampshade—if you love how it looks, that’s what matters most! But if you're looking for some helpful guidelines, we’ve got you covered.
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Getting Started
A new lampshade can completely transform the look and feel of a room. When choosing a size, think about:
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The shape of the lampshade
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The style and size of the lamp base
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The location it will be used (e.g., side table, console, floor lamp, etc.)
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Quick Size Guide
Use the diameter of the shade’s bottom ring as your key measurement:
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Small lamp bases: 10–20 cm diameter shade
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Medium lamp bases: 20–35 cm diameter shade
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Large lamp bases: 40 cm or larger
Already have a shade you like? Use those measurements as your reference.
Measuring a lampshade
When replacing your lampshade consider the following dimensions:
A - Top diameter
B - Bottom diameter
C - Slant (if applicable)
D - Overall vertical height
E - Height of lamp neck to lamp fitting
If you have a lampshade size that you already like, then you can use these measurements.
Proportion is key!
Think about the following:
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shape of lampshade
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style of lamp base
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location of the lampshade
What size lampshade do I need?
There is no single rule but the simplest way to measure the size of lampshade required is keep the lampshade size in proportion to the lamp base.
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How to Measure for a Lampshade
1. Diameter
Measure the widest part of the lamp base, then double that number.
Example: A 15 cm wide base = a 30 cm diameter lampshade.
2. Height
Measure from the bottom of the base to just below the bulb holder.
Your shade height should be around 70% of this measurement.
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If these measurements do no look correct for your base try the following tips for a great fit:
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The +/- 5cm Rule:
Take the total height of the lamp base. Your shade’s diameter should be about ±5 cm of that height.
Example: For a 40 cm base, go for a 35–45 cm wide shade. -
Width = Height:
The bottom diameter of your shade can be roughly equal to the lamp base height. -
2/3 Rule:
The lampshade height should be about two-thirds of the lamp base height. -
Wider than the base:
The lampshade should always be a bit wider than the widest part of the lamp base for visual balance.
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Choosing the right lampshade for a floor lamp can be a little tricky due to their tall, slender form. Here are some helpful tips to guide you:
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Recommended Sizes:
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Small floor lamps: Use a shade with a minimum 30 cm diameter
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Standard floor lamps: Opt for a 45 cm diameter or larger for a balanced look
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Top Tips
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Height ÷ 4: Measure from the floor to just below the bulb holder, then divide that height by four to estimate the ideal shade height.
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Pendant Position: If your lamp has an arc-style arm or the fitting is at the top, you’ll need a ceiling pendant-style shade.
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Consider the Shape:
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Drum shades offer a bold, spacious look but take up more room
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Oval shades are great for tighter spaces
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Empire shades add vertical height and elegance
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Location Matters
Keep the room size in mind—a large shade might feel overwhelming in a small space, while a spacious room can handle a more dramatic design.
WALL LIGHTS
For wall fittings, smaller shades work best. Make sure to measure the depth from the wall to the light fitting to ensure the shade doesn’t stick out too far.
Ideal Shapes for Wall Lights:
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Candle clip shades
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Small drums
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Rectangles, ovals, and square shades
Choosing the right shape?
The shape of your lampshade is a matter of personal style, but here are some general tips:
Round lamp bases: Pair well with drum, empire, or conical shades
Straight-edged or angular bases: Look great with square or rectangular shades
Column-style bases: Extremely versatile—suit almost any shade shape
Tip: Keep location in mind—large drum shades take up more space, while oval or rectangular shades can fit neatly against a wall or in narrow spaces.
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Need Something Custom?
Berry & Grouse offers a wide variety of standard lampshade sizes and shapes, but if you need something bespoke, we’re happy to help! Click here to explore our range of shapes and sizes or get in touch for custom options.
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