Square Shades Versus Rectangle Shades: The Subtle Distinctions

At first glance, choosing between a square and rectangle shade may seem like a trivial detail. However, there are a few small differences that can transform the look of your lamp and even the décor of the whole room.

There are certain distinctions and similarities between the two shapes. It’s common sense that you want your shade to match your lamp base. Stylistically, rectangle shades fit best on rectangular or oblong lamp bases (specifically buffet lamps), and of course, square shades fit best on square lamp bases. You should also consider how the shade will be presented in the room. For example, we recommend using rectangle shades in areas where the front face of the shade is in full vision (e.g., on a table against a wall, in an entry hall, or in a dining room). For a square shade, we recommend that you place them in open areas where you can see all four sides of the shade (e.g., a living room, a den, or a library).

Royal Lamp Shades offers many elegant, unique styles such as cut corners, inverted cut corners, fancy bottom, and sharp corners. Our collection of square shades come in more unique styles such as slightly flared bottom and cube-shaped. For more information on these shades and how they may fit the décor of your design space, we have various style guides on our blog that explain the different lamp and shade combinations. Read on to take your interior design to the next level:

To view the different sizes, shapes, and materials of Royal Lamp Shade’s rectangle/oblong and square lampshades, you can visit the following links for rectangle shades and square shades.