Note from Hennessy Lampworks: While Chris and I create the lamps, interior designers make them feel at home in so many different spaces. They have such a great eye for color, scale, and balance. So we're excited to share this guest post written by WIT Interiors, a full service interior design firm specializing in thoughtful, personal spaces tailored to suit the way their clients live. 

For us, lampshades are where the fun begins, and an opportunity to add another layer of interest. It’s where personality lives, where the conversation between a lamp base and its shade becomes something considered rather than purely decorative. Here are some reflections on how we choose, what we’ve learned, and the makers we keep coming back to.

Photo: Vivian Johnson

How do we choose a lampshade?

Scale comes first. A shade that’s too small feels out of place, while one that’s too large overwhelms. We think about placement as much as proportion. Bedside lamps need soft light and enough room to use the nightstand, while living room or entry lamps should anchor the space and read well from across the room.

Photo: Vivian Johnson

Pattern, neutral, or solid color? 

A neutral shade lets the base shine. If the base is simple or neutral, it’s a chance to introduce a patterned or more distinctive shade that complements the other textiles in the room. A solid color, especially an unexpected one, can act as a quiet surprise that ties a palette together without demanding attention.

Photo: Paul Dyer

Working with Hennessy Lampworks 

We love partnering with Hennessy Lampworks because their craftsmanship is unparalleled. Their work brings warmth and a sense of tactility to a room. Since each lamp is handmade, we know there is nothing else like it on the market.

Photo: Lauren Hanussak