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.

Aoi explores the relationship between fabric construction and illumination | all images courtesy of InOutGrid

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.

the lighting object applies traditional pleating techniques to shape light

textile manipulation becomes a study of light and shadow

the lampshade takes the shape of a twenty-four-sided icositetragon

a concealed wire framework supports the textile envelope

the geometric wire structure encases the lightbulb

project info:

name: Aoi

designer: InOutGrid – Ingrid Ng

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom