Let There Be Light: How to Style Lamps and Lampshades in Your Home

The right lighting can completely transform a room—but we’re not just talking about brightness. The design of a lamp—its base, its shade, and where it’s placed—can elevate your entire space and create a sense of warmth, style, and personality.

At Liza Pruitt Art, we’re passionate about functional beauty. Our curated selection of lamps and handmade lampshades brings a mix of timeless design and artistic flair to any room in your home. Whether you're working with a modern coastal palette or a collected, traditional aesthetic, here’s how to make the most of your lighting design.

1. Start with the Base: A Foundation of Style

Your lamp base sets the tone. Think of it as both a sculptural object and a practical element. Whether you gravitate toward ceramic, glass, or hand-painted finishes, the base is a chance to add shape, color, and texture.

• Neutral bases (like soft whites, taupes, or textured ceramics) bring subtle sophistication and can be styled anywhere from the living room to the bedroom.

• Patterned or hand-painted bases act as a statement piece—try placing them where they’ll be seen from multiple angles, like an entry console or a side table in the living room.

• Pairing tip: If your furniture leans minimalist or clean-lined, consider a lamp base with character and movement. If your space is already full of texture or pattern, a simple, elegant base can balance things out.

2. The Power of the Perfect Shade

The lampshade is where you can really bring in personality and finish the look. Our collection of fabric shades ranges from soft block prints to crisp solids, each adding its own layer of charm.

• Play with pattern: If your base is solid, a patterned shade adds interest without overwhelming. We love using small-scale florals or block-printed motifs for a hint of whimsy.

• Stick with simplicity: For a bolder or more detailed base, opt for a clean, neutral shade. This keeps the overall look cohesive and lets the lamp’s shape shine. 

• Mix and match: Don’t be afraid to pair unexpected colors or prints. Lamps are a great place to experiment in smaller doses—try mixing a traditional shade with a more modern base, or vice versa.

3. Where to Place Your Lamps

• Entryway: Add warmth and welcome with a statement lamp on a console table. Pair with a mirror or artwork for balance.

• Living Room: Style lamps on side tables or credenzas to create cozy pockets of light, especially in the evening. This is a great spot for a pair of matching lamps or two complementary styles.

• Bedroom: Lamps on nightstands should feel soft and inviting. Consider proportions—your lamps should be tall enough to read by, but not so tall they overpower your bedside table.

• Kitchen or Breakfast Nook: A small lamp on a countertop or sideboard adds instant coziness to an often-overlooked space.

4. Don’t Forget the Details

Styling a lamp isn’t just about the lamp itself—think about what surrounds it.

• Stack a few coffee table books underneath for added height and interest.

• Add a small dish, candle, or vase of flowers next to your lamp base for layered styling.

• Choose a warm-toned bulb to complement your shade and create a flattering glow.

5. Make It Personal

Lighting should reflect your taste, your home, and the way you live. A carefully chosen lamp isn’t just an accessory—it’s a detail that makes your space feel curated, intentional, and lived-in.

Whether you’re looking to add charm to a quiet corner or bring new life to your bedside table, our Lamps & Lampshades Collection is full of character-rich options that balance beauty and function.

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Ready to Light Things Up?

Browse the full collection of handcrafted lamps and artful shades here—and bring home a little extra glow.