The Nostalgic Comeback of the Dome Lampshade

Interior design trends come and go, and in recent years, the most notable comeback has been vintage and retro styles. In looking for that familiar feeling, interior designers have drawn their inspiration from the past decades: art deco, bohemian (boho) chic, and even industrial ‘schoolhouse’ styles have made a resurgence in the interior design world, bringing a sense of classic nostalgia and personality to their creations and spaces. One of such creation is our whimsical Misheroon Red Lampshade pictured below. Misheroon is an ancient Sussex term for Mushroom 🍄.

The dome lampshade is a testament to such rebirth. The shape is tied to the mid-century modern revival movement, a style known for its organic shapes and silhouettes, clean lines, and minimalism, all traits in which the dome excels. Not only that, but the domed shade also has links to the industrial style movement, an interior design made most popular in the mid-20th century that uses raw and exposed materials and simplistic outlines. It embraces a highly ‘no-frills’ aesthetic most often seen in factories and warehouses from the late 19th century, upon which the initial surge of industrial popularity was based on. 

Warm fabric floor lamps or glass pendant lights - the versatility of a dome shaped lampshade is endless. So, how could introducing this shape into your interior design benefit you and enhance your space? Besides the rising trend of retro, we can think of a couple of other reasons.

1. An Emphasis on Soft, Diffused Light

One of the points that stands out the most about domed shades is their ability to create warm, diffused light within an area. The design of the dome helps to soften and distribute light more evenly across the room, preventing harsh glare and providing a gentle glow. In homes and designs that focus on comfort and relaxation, especially those that call upon the mid-century modern aesthetic, the dome shape is a staple element in providing the correct ambience. The smooth curves direct lines downwards and outwards, creating a cosy, intimate feel without overexposing the space to bright, direct light. 

2. Versatility in Contemporary Environments

One of the many benefits of the domed lampshade is the flexibility with which you can adapt it to your interior design space. Domed shades can come in a variety of textures and materials, including glass, acrylic, fabric, leather and even metal. While glass and metal domes may introduce a more industrial, minimalist feeling to your space, fabric domes can add a touch of warm, rustic energy, and it is with this realm of possibility that you find the reason why this shape is considered so versatile and rising in popularity. This timeless shape fits any aesthetic and makes it hard for them to go out of style, ensuring that it stays a long-term investment for your design.

3. Focal Point of Interest

While dome lampshades appeal to minimalism with their gentle curves and clean lines, this does not mean that you need to sacrifice creativity or individuality if you choose this shade shape for your space. The unique shape, while simple in design, is considerably more eye-catching and different when compared to that of a standard shape without being overly quirky or overwhelming to its surroundings. No matter if it is used as a table lamp, a pendant light, or anything in between, it draws the eye while adding an air of sophistication to any room. Matching the material and texture to the room’s surroundings is also an excellent way of making the room pop. For example,  a matte black metal pendant lamp would tie together an industrial-style loft, whereas the same design in a sleek and shiny gold could really bring out the elegance of a modern space.

4. A Matter of Safety

Alongside their aesthetic benefits and versatility, dome lampshades also provide practical advantages in terms of safety in your interior space. The enclosed shape of the shade provides a cover for the bulb, limiting and preventing dirt, dust, and debris from accumulating around the light source, which is a common source of fires. They are also beneficial for families that have children or pets in their home - the domed shape results in less exposed bulb, which in turn means less of a chance for an accident, including burns or breakages.

A Few Ideas:

So, if you’re thinking of adding a dome lampshade to your interior design plans, how can you go about it? Do you have to overhaul your creative image to make it fit? Absolutely not! Thanks to the beauty and versatility of the dome shade, there are plenty of ways for you to incorporate it into your plans without changing a single thing.

• Overhead pendant lights: Installing a sleek dome pendant light in your kitchen or dining room will add a refined air to the design.

• Clustered chandeliers: Hanging multiple dome shades together in a cluster can add a dramatic, eye-catching flair, which is perfect for living rooms or entryways.

• Desk and table lighting: Dome shades in a smaller size can be an exceptional touch, adding a warm, cosy feeling to places such as bedside tables and reading nooks.

If you’re looking to add a touch of retro charm to your home, look no further than the dome lampshade. It’s more than just a piece of nostalgia – it’s a reminder that great design, no matter how old, always has a place in the future.