Tortoise Shell in the House

From the actual thing to faux prints, tortoise shell is a studious look that's not just for eyewear. Here, we're seeing it everywhere from wallpaper to tableware. Check it out:

Tortoise shell has a natural, warm, textured look that's perfectly fitting for the autumn season. See that one in the third picture? It's actually used as a fireplace screen.

Pics four and five above are available for purchase: The flatware at Carolyne Roehm ($20 per five pieces), and the lamp at Neiman Marcus ($235).

Images: via Willow Bee Inspired, Lonny, Elle Decor, Carolyne Roehm, Neiman Marcus

Categories: Style, Decorating, Lighting & Fans, Tabletop

Posted by Regina Yunghans

Regina is an architect who lives with her husband and son in Lawrence, KS. As a LEED Accredited Professional and longtime contributor to Apartment Therapy and The Kitchn, her focus is on healthy, sustainable living through design.
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Comments (6)

I like the lamp and the silverware handles, NOT a fan of the wallpaper though.

I had a tortoise-shell patterned shower curtain in a 'glam' bathroom in college. It was my first claw-foot tub, so I went all out with ferns and french posters etc. :)

Very pretty, but dated, not that I mind. One of those few times I prefer the faux version, just like I usually prefer faux versions of other animal-inspired patterns and materials.

Love it except for the real shell, which is the same to me as hanging a dead head on the wall. Faux tortoise is the way to go. Especially love the lamps.

Yes to the lamp (no to the price), but that giant dead animal shell (I cannot imagine that is was sourced w/o cruelty) is just disgusting.

Oh thank god...I was worried when I clicked this that everyone would be swooning. I think it can look great in small doses, but faux is the only way to go. It's truly horrendous what happens to these poor animals for their shells, tusks, skin, etc. Why would you want that in your home?? :(

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