2 mins
By Cressida Bell
Our shades come in three different sizes. Are you unsure which size to choose? Do you want to know the difference between a coolie and an empire shape? This complete guide to choosing the right shade for you is a good place to start.
For bespoke sizes and alternative shapes, please get in touch. Information about fixtures and fittings can be found on the FAQ page.
What’s the difference between a coolie and an empire shape?
Empire lampshades
The empire shape has its roots in the early 19th century French Empire style of decoration. The empire shade’s clean lines and balanced proportions perfectly embodied the aesthetic of the era. Taller and slenderer than our coolie, this shape is perfect for smaller, narrower spaces like console tables in hallways and slim, delicate bedside tables.
Coolie lampshades
Coolie lampshades are beautiful shades that resemble Asian conical hats, from which the name is derived. They are wide in shape, and perfect for illuminating a larger area. We supply them in two versions – the large flatter coolie and the smaller tall coolie - both of which work harmoniously both with a traditional or a contemporary-themed home.
How do I choose the right lampshade size?
When it comes to choosing the right lampshade, getting the size right should be at the top of your list.
As a general rule the size of your lamp base will dictate that of the shade. Once you get the proportions right the effect is harmonious and curiously satisfying. Each of our lampshades comes with a lamp base that is designed to pair with it perfectly in size, colour and shape – saving you all the trouble of decision making.
Many lampshades are too wide to fit the space you want to light up. To address this problem we stock two small sized shades: our 10” coolie and our 8” empire. We tend to pair both with table lamps between 20 - 30 cm high. For example, these small shades could look great in a child's room - and are perfect for desks, nooks and bedside tables. When used with a low wattage bulb they can make an attractive night light.
Our 8” empire shade (pictured above) is especially narrow and will fit the most awkward spaces such as shelves in your kitchen, sitting room, bedroom or even the loo.
Our 14” coolie shades pair well with table lamps between 30 - 40 cm high. Alternatively they can be hung suspended from the ceiling.
