Danish design has been synonymous with simplicity, elegance, and functionality since the mid-20th century. The designers of the time believed that a well-designed object should be beautiful but also practical and useful. This philosophy is reflected in the iconic lighting fixtures from PH lamps Copenhagen, the brainchild of renowned designer Poul Henningsen. In this article, we will explore the history, design, and impact of these iconic lamps.
History of PH Lamps Copenhagen
Poul Henningsen (1894-1967) was a Danish architect, designer, and cultural critic. He had a profound interest in lighting and spent much of his career designing lamps. Despite having no formal education in engineering, he had an innate understanding of lighting design and was known to use complex mathematical formulas to design his luminaires.
In the early 1920s, Poul Henningsen began collaborating with Louis Poulsen, a Danish lighting manufacturer, to produce his designs. The partnership led to the creation of some of the most iconic lighting fixtures of the 20th century, including the PH Artichoke (1958), PH Snowball (1958), and PH 5 (1958).
The Design Philosophy of Poul Henningsen
Poul Henningsen’s innovative design philosophy revolved around the idea of using multiple light sources to create a soft, diffused light. He believed that harsh, direct light could cause eye strain and headaches, and that indirect lighting was the key to creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
To achieve this, Henningsen designed lamps with multiple layers of shades, each with a different angle to deflect and diffuse the light. His use of geometry, scientific principles, and the latest technologies made his lamps not just aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional.
The Impact of PH Lamps Copenhagen
PH lamps Copenhagen had a profound impact on the world of lighting design. Their innovative design and technology revolutionized the way lighting fixtures were made and used. They also influenced a new generation of lighting designers who followed Henningsen’s footsteps and adopted his design philosophy.
Today, the PH lamps Copenhagen are still highly regarded for their unique design and functionality. They have been featured in prestigious museums and exhibitions worldwide, such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
The PH lamps Copenhagen are a testament to the creativity, vision, and innovation of Poul Henningsen. His use of geometry, scientific principles, and the latest technology resulted in some of the most iconic and influential lighting fixtures of the 20th century. Their legacy lives on today and continues to inspire a new generation of designers to bring beauty and functionality to the world of lighting.
