Let your little light shine...
The first lampshades appeared in the 1600s. Initially used to direct light, they later took the role of softening and dispersing it. During Queen Victoria’s reign the aesthetics of lampshades became as important as their practicality.
The iconic Tiffany lampshade was designed at the end of the19th century, by the American artist and designer Louis Comfort Tiffany. These were made of stained glass combined in elaborate patterns. The style – which is highly
distinctive – remains recognisable
and admired throughout the world today. Tiffany also used mosaic techniques to create picturesque shades that would not only look pleasing in themselves, but even more so when illuminated by a bulb through the stained glass.
The popularity of lampshades grew hugely during the twentieth century as more people had access to electricity. They were able to afford lighting in all rooms of their houses, and wanted to create a welcoming and homely atmosphere.
Today there are a wide variety of lampshade designs and they are made from many materials including glass, metal, ceramics, fabric or even paper. They are generally held together with a wire frame and are normally embellished with beautiful patterns or ornate trim.
Hardback shades and soft shades are available. Hardback shades are not washable and are generally less expensive than the same shade made as a soft shade.
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There are a wide variety of shapes including: Drum, Coolie, Empire and Bell, Circle, Oval and Square.
Here are a few tips to help you choose your shade: • Decide
whether • you are creating
ambient, accent, task or decorative lighting, as this will help determine the style you should choose.
If you need the lamp to read by or to shed ambient light, go with a translucent shade.
If you’re using the lamp only
as an accent light and don’t need it to illuminate the room or to shed light on a task, an opaque shade can be a good choice.
• When placing a table lamp, take account of the breadth of the shade: - you don’t want to crash into it every time you get in or out of bed, or pass the hall table.
• Consider a lampshade that will compliment the colours and style of your room, or be bold and choose something that really makes a statement.
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• •
Pleated lampshades tend to look more traditional and are most appropriate in rooms furnished with antiques or that have a lot of pattern and detail.
If the room is contemporary, go with a non pleated shade.
If you are looking for something really special you could even go for a custom design, and for those who are creative, it is even possible to make your own.
So go on…let your little light shine.
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