pleated fabric shapes aoi’s structural lighting form

Pleated Fabric creates an interplay of Light and Shadow in Aoi

Aoi is a contemporary lighting object that investigates the interaction between fabric construction and illumination. Developed by Ingrid Ng of InOutGrid, the piece applies traditional pleating techniques to translate textile manipulation into a controlled study of light and shadow. When illuminated, the otherwise monochromatic exterior reveals layered shades of blue arranged in geometric configurations. The superimposed sheer fabrics modulate light transmission, producing depth and calibrated shadow patterns across surrounding surfaces.

Pleated Modules and Wire Framework shape Aoi lighting piece

The lampshade is composed of repeated textile modules sewn together to form an icositetragon, a twenty-four-sided geometric structure. Each unit contains intricate pleat formations, while their repetition establishes formal continuity and structural coherence. The resulting geometry balances complexity at the scale of detail with clarity at the scale of the whole.

An internal wire framework supports the textile envelope, introducing a dialogue between flexible fabric and rigid structure. The concealed armature stabilizes the pleated surface while maintaining visual lightness. Drawing from the proportions and framing logic of traditional Japanese lanterns, Aoi, developed by designer Ingrid Ng of InOutGrid, reinterprets heritage craft techniques within a contemporary lighting context, positioning fabric as both structural and luminous medium.

project info:

name: Aoi

designer: InOutGrid – Ingrid Ng

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