c. Tess Kelly
Toile
(n.) A first and final draft in fabric
c. Martina Gemmola
As an ongoing study in fabric, Toile unfolds as a collection of sculptural lighting works conceived as final drafts — pieces caught mid-process, where traditional shade-making is reworked to reveal its construction, seams and all. Human in scale and quietly off-kilter, the forms gather with a soft humour, as if caught mid-conversation.
What began as a series of oversized calico studies has expanded into a broader family of table lamps, floor lamps and pendants. The Matriarchs — oversized pendant forms available in a variety of shapes and custom configurations — are held aloft, their heads angled or hung straight, echoing the signature Toile tilt through a custom-made component. They are joined by the Tiny table lamp and Mini pendants, offering a more intimate counterpoint.
The Toile collection is constructed more like a couture garment than a conventional lampshade. Contemporary shades often conceal their making with adhesive, plastic linings and trim. Toile does the opposite: visible seams, irregular panel widths and hand-stitched joins are left exposed, allowing construction to become part of the final expression.
Each piece is made from calico, vibrant silks, heritage textiles or deadstock fabrics, with irregular panels that maximise fabric use and work around wear, damage or limited material. Difference is embraced over uniformity — an ode to process, imperfection and the quiet elegance of the handmade.
Toile continues as an ongoing body of work, with pieces available made to order in calico, customers’ own fabric, heritage textiles or through custom commissions for unique locations.
Made to Order in our Sydney studio.
Exhibitions
• Low Key, Fiona Lynch Office — Melbourne Design Week 2025 (AUS)
• Next in Design, NGV Rigg Design Prize 2025 — Ian Potter Centre 2025 (AUS)
• Forward Furniture, Dutch Design Week 2025 — curated by Liv Vaisberg 2025 (NL)
• Latitude, curated by Claire Delmar - 3 Days of Design 2026 (DK)
Materials
Hand-stitched textile over a powder-coated steel frame
Aluminium components and base plate
Integrated LED lighting with clear flex and inline switch
