A shade may be visually prominent, but the base must remain stable and the furniture still needs a usable safety margin.
Start with the problem, not the product photograph
A few centimetres can expose a bulb or put glass in a door path. For Table lamp proportions for a side table, 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
Check that the base is secure and the shade’s widest point does not overhang a place where shoulders, curtains or hands pass.
Keep this evidence: write the main task and the one constraint that could rule the fitting out.
2. Measure the real fitting envelope
Measure table width and depth, base footprint, shade diameter, table height and clearance to the nearest seat.
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
Lay a cardboard disc at the shade’s full diameter and use the table normally for an evening before accepting the footprint.
Keep this evidence: repeat the check by day and after dark, using the bulb and furniture layout you expect to keep.
Worked calculation
Remaining table margin
M = (T − S) ÷ 2
Variables: M is the margin beside a centred shade, T is table width and S is shade diameter.
Example: A 600 mm table with a 400 mm shade leaves M = (600 − 400) ÷ 2 = 100 mm each side. If the lamp is off-centre, calculate the two margins separately.
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
30 cm Baroque-style stained-glass pendant
A compact 30 cm pendant used to test table margins, hanging height and the difference between shade diameter and total suspended size.
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.