Design for Living: Classic Fabric Pleated Lampshades

As we enter the Fall and Winter months I was thinking about ways to make a room feel instantly warm and cozy, when I came across some beautiful classic fabric pleated lampshades in a back issue of Elle Decor magazine.  A perennial favorite in English homes, they're often found in traditional settings. Penny Morrison, a well-regarded British interior designer features pleated lampshades throughout her residential projects, particularly in bedrooms and living rooms.  Penny applies rich colors and textures with a fresh informal approach, accessorizing with classic, sculptural candlestick-style lamps, topped with finely pleated fabric shades.  

Having not noticed them for the last few years they suddenly look incredibly chic. Fabric pleated lampshades provide another layer of textile and texture that brings individual style and warmth to a room instantly. Coordinate with your sofa throw cushion fabric for a singular look.

My favorite source for finding the perfect ready-made or custom lampshade is Illumé New York, a boutique situated on New York's upper east side, that specializes in high quality custom and ready-made lampshades. Ilumé features chic lampshade designs handmade in New York, Connecticut, Montreal and Paris.  Offering everything related to lamps, including specialty finials, antiques, candles, decorative lightbulbs and a lamp repair shop, it's truly a one-stop lamp emporium!   

Photos from Illumé, Ben Pentreath Ltd and Penny Morrison Interiors

Jewel ikat loose pleated silk shade from Illumé - 223 East 58th Street, NY - (212) 308-1400

Jewel ikat loose pleated silk shade from Illumé - 223 East 58th Street, NY - (212) 308-1400

Racetrack chiffon open box pleat shade with velvet ribbon trim from Illumé

Racetrack chiffon open box pleat shade with velvet ribbon trim from Illumé

Shade 609 scroll print soft pleated shade with contrast paisley trim from Illumé

Shade 609 scroll print soft pleated shade with contrast paisley trim from Illumé

Silk pleated shade with classical metallic scroll motif ribbon trim from Illumé

Silk pleated shade with classical metallic scroll motif ribbon trim from Illumé

From Ben Pentreath Ltd

From Ben Pentreath Ltd

The ikat print lampshades perk up an eclectic mix of crisp white dining table and chairs - From Ben Pentreath Ltd

The ikat print lampshades perk up an eclectic mix of crisp white dining table and chairs - From Ben Pentreath Ltd

Interior Design - Classic Fabric Lampshades - Doreen Chambers Interiors New York
From Penny Morrison Interiors

From Penny Morrison Interiors

Interior Design - Classic Fabric Lampshades - Doreen Chambers Interiors Brooklyn NY
Interior Design - Classic Fabric Lampshades - Doreen Chambers Interior Design Brooklyn New York