Treat the lamp as a three-dimensional object: the shade, base or canopy, cord and the space needed to use and clean it all matter.
Start with the problem, not the product photograph
A few centimetres can expose a bulb or put glass in a door path. For Tiffany lamp size guide, measure the complete three-dimensional envelope.
Photograph the proposed position straight on and from the side. Record the full dimensions, lampholder, bulb, connection method and the main task. A close product image rarely shows room scale, door movement or the angle from which a bare bulb becomes visible.
Three distinct decisions
1. Decide the job before the style
Choose the relevant reference surface—floor, tabletop, wall or underside of ceiling—before comparing any measurement.
Keep this evidence: write the main task and the one constraint that could rule the fitting out.
2. Measure the real fitting envelope
Record total height, maximum width, depth or projection, base or canopy size, weight and the nearest human movement zone.
Keep this evidence: record every dimension from one named reference point and photograph the tape measure in place.
3. Test the result from normal positions
Recreate the complete envelope at full size with card and tape; a model that only fits on paper without a margin is not a robust choice.
Keep this evidence: repeat the check by day and after dark, using the bulb and furniture layout you expect to keep.
Worked calculation
Complete fitting envelope
W = max(shade width, base width); H = total fitting height; P = maximum projection
Variables: W is the widest horizontal dimension, H is the full height and P is the furthest projection from the support surface.
Example: A 406 mm shade on a 190 mm base has W = max(406, 190) = 406 mm. If the lamp is 610 mm tall and needs 60 mm handling space, plan for at least 466 mm clear width and 670 mm clear height.
The calculation gives a planning check, not an installation approval. Confirm the maker’s dimensions, use a full-size mock-up and let the appropriately qualified person decide structural and fixed-wiring details.
A real TiffanyLight.co.nz product as the worked case
Red dragonfly Tiffany-style desk lamp
A small red dragonfly shade used for bedside, desk, motif-scale and bulb-position examples.
This model demonstrates the method; it is not an automatic recommendation. Draw its complete dimensions, verify the current electrical specification and test the proposed light in the real room. Product details can change, so check the live page before buying.
Confirm on the product page: total dimensions, weight, voltage and connection, lampholder, maximum wattage, included parts and installation conditions.
Practical New Zealand home scenario
Build the full shade diameter in lightweight card and place it at the stated height. Photograph it from the doorway, seat and closest route. Add a realistic margin; a choice that works only to the millimetre will fail when furniture moves or installation tolerances appear.
Common mistakes
- Confusing shade diameter with total fitting width.
- Forgetting doors, heads, curtains, cupboards and cleaning access.
- Rounding inch dimensions before drawing the template.
Final checklist
- All dimensions use the same reference point.
- The complete volume is mocked up at 1:1.
- Doors and walking routes remain clear.
- Seated and standing views are tested.
- Safe service access exists.
Record sheet: model, complete dimensions, total weight, voltage and connection, lampholder, chosen LED, position, mock-up photograph and check date. The current product information and maker’s instructions take priority over general guidance.
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