Designing for Children: Creating Lampshades That Soothe and Inspire

There’s something magical about designing for children — not just for little ones, but for the child that still lives within us all. When I sit down to create a new lampshade, I don’t just think about nursery themes or colour palettes. I imagine the quiet moments of wonder, the curiosity sparked by a tiny detail, the comfort of familiar animals and stories. That’s what I hope to bring into homes — gentle lighting that nurtures calm, creativity, and connection.

Lampshades That Tell a Story

My designs often begin with a theme — an animal, a landscape, or a whisper of a story. From there, I carefully build out the colours and details, using soft palettes and nature-inspired illustrations that invite imagination. One of my earliest pieces made with children in mind was my Fox Lampshade — I wanted to create something rich in detail, with foxes peeking through plants and a narrative quality that encouraged discovery each time it was looked at.

Every piece is handmade using certified organic cotton, which not only offers a beautiful texture but also aligns with my commitment to sustainability — a value I’ve held since launching my brand over a decade ago. If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of using organic fabrics in interiors, The Soil Association is a great resource.

A Family Influence

My own children often spark ideas. The Heron Wetland Bird Lampshade came about shortly after my oldest son developed a deep love for birds. We had just moved house to a spot near lakes, and herons would fly past our windows — a magical sight for a toddler and a mum alike. That design now includes swans, ducks, geese, and of course, a heron or two, all inspired by those early nature-watching walks.

These moments of wonder become more than just inspiration — they become shared memories. That’s what I want my designs to foster: quiet moments between parent and child. “Remember when we saw that swallow?” or “That looks just like the fish from our holiday!” It’s about anchoring stories and feelings into the everyday objects that surround us.

A Calm Space to Grow

Children are naturally curious and gloriously chaotic. But a calm environment can do wonders for nurturing a peaceful mind. In my own home, I’ve seen how thoughtful design — soft light, warm colours, nature themes — helps my children wind down, feel safe, and grow their imaginations.

For example, our ceilings are painted ochre yellow. It’s something children stare at while drifting to sleep, and I love knowing they’re looking up at something warm and cheerful. I believe bedrooms should be havens — no matter your age. Simplicity, comfort, and a touch of whimsy can go a long way.

If you're curious about how to design calm spaces for children, I highly recommend this insightful guide by How We Montessori on creating calming, child-friendly environments.

A Thought on Sustainability

When creating items for children, sustainability feels non-negotiable to me. If we’re designing with their wellbeing in mind, we also need to be thinking about the future world they’ll inherit. That’s why I continue to use organic, eco-conscious materials in my work. To me, making things with intention is a form of quiet activism — a gentle way to say: this world matters.

Lampshades That Spark Wonder

Some of my favourite child-friendly designs include:

• Under the Sea Lampshade: A calm ocean scene full of gently swimming fish and seaweed.

• Red Squirrel Lampshade: A cosy woodland story with acorns, oak leaves, and charming red squirrels.

• Swallows Lampshade: Inspired by my son’s favourite bird, this design feels peaceful and free.

• Heron Wetland Lampshade: A serene scene for any bird-lover.

Each one is designed to gently support a calm, imaginative atmosphere — whether in a nursery, a reading corner, or a family living room.

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