Illumé

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Though custom-made lampshades are this shop’s focal point, the spacious store is full of ready-made shades and prime for browsing. They come in everything from pagoda to drum shapes and in materials such as linen, silk, and grasscloth; some are even embroidered. Owners Mark Candido and Ronald Scinto, who also have a shop in Stamford, have created an inviting space that shoppers enter by passing through silk curtains. Once inside, a black-and-white tile floor contrasts sharply with sunflower yellow walls. Wide windows look out onto the street, and one wall has a mirrored section covered in tiny chandelier-size shades lit by small sconces. Further back there are medium and large shades lined up on shelves and finials laid out like jewelry on silver trays. Repairs are done in a workshop to the right of the showroom that has more of a utilitarian, old-school feel. Reached through a separate entrance, it has large wooden workbenches with iron supports. This side of the store is also where home decorators can find unusual bulbs (such as Edison bulbs with long filaments), along with a wide variety of other supplies, including plate hangers, chains for dangling lamps, and candle covers. — Ashley Taylor