The Case for a Great Lampshade

How Pooky Changed My Life (and My Apartment)!

I have a confession: I am unapologetically obsessed with lampshades. If this were a meeting for addicts, I’d stand up and declare, “Hi, I’m Hollis Loudon, and I’m addicted to lampshades.” But not just any lampshades—oh no—I’m talking about the crème de la crème. Penny Morrison, Vaughan, Rosanna Lonsdale, Fermoire... the mere mention of these brands makes my heart race. It’s practically a sickness.

Whenever I start a project with a new client, they’re always floored when I reveal the price of a high-end lampshade (wholesale, no less!). “How could a lampshade cost $350 net?!” they exclaim in disbelief. But here’s the thing: once I convince them to take the plunge, we place the order, and voilà—another lampshade convert is born.

Much like my love of hardware hacks (see: Lipstick on a Pig: The Case for Expensive Hardware), a beautiful lampshade has the power to completely transform even the most basic lamp. While I’d love to outfit every space with Christopher Spitzmiller lamps, the reality of designing a five-bedroom home on a budget often means finding creative solutions (fun fact: Christopher Spitzmiller does have a STUNNING diffusion line with Visual Comfort). Enter the trusty, affordable gourd lamp. My go-to? Safavieh. Both Wayfair Professional and Amazon have incredible selections. Pair one of those with a stunning, high-quality lampshade, and you’ve got magic (Case in point below- the lamp is from Wayfair Professional and the lampshade courtesy of Amazon!).

But let me tell you about the single best thing that happened to me in 2024: the launch of Pooky Lights in the U.S.

I was lucky enough to attend their activation at ABC Carpet & Home in September, and to say I was overwhelmed is an understatement. Picture this: tiered lampshades cascading from the ceiling in a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns. It was so breathtaking that I completely dropped the ball as an “influencer” and didn’t even film a proper reel—though we did capture some epic footage!

Pooky’s collection ranges from 6” to 20” shades in the most exquisite patterns and colors, and their recent collaboration with GP & J Baker is pure perfection. I used their blue-and-green ikat shade for my living room in my Dumbo apartment, where it pulls together all the colors of the space beautifully. The shade sits atop a cordless table lamp from Pooky, gifted to me at the event, which has been a game-changer for rental living.

And let me gush for a moment about their cordless sconces! I had a pair installed to flank my stunning Minted artwork (the “trophy piece” of my living room), and because I couldn’t hardwire anything in my rental, these sconces were the perfect solution (sadly- the single sconces are currently sold out! SIGH). They come with a remote control in a chic brass case and a special bulb that makes installation a breeze. The timer feature has been life-changing for setting the mood, especially in the evening.

^Images from my gorgeous shoot. Photography by the amazing Rikki Snyder; Styling courtesy of the insanely talented Kimberly Power.

Pooky’s cordless collection, from table lamps to sconces, truly exceeded all expectations. The launch event was nothing short of magical—we were even given picnic baskets with charcuterie and wine, along with a lamp and shade of our choice, to set up under the golden light by the Flatiron building. Think Turkish and oriental rugs, a live guitarist, and the perfect New York evening. Thank you, Nylon, for the invitation—it was unforgettable!

Beyond my own apartment, Pooky has become a go-to for my clients. Their lampshades allow us to stretch budgets while still delivering that luxe, layered look. Of course, we still indulge in splurges from my other favorites, like Vaughan (a to-the-trade-only classic), but Pooky offers an accessible price point without sacrificing style.

So yes, I stand by this bold claim: Pooky coming to the U.S. may have been the best thing that happened to me in 2024.

Sorry, Millie (my puppy daughter)—you’re a close second! 😉

P.S. For MORE AFFORDABLE lampshade options, click here! Happy Shopping & May the Sales be Ever in Your Favor!