Introduction
The Lampa PH5, designed in 1958 by Poul Henningsen, is a timeless classic in the world of lighting design. Known for its unique shape, even illumination, and exceptional functionality, the PH5 has been a favorite among design enthusiasts for over six decades. In this article, we will explore the iconic design and illuminating functionality of the Lampa PH5.
The Design: Form and Function Unite
When Poul Henningsen was commissioned to design a new lamp for the Louis Poulsen Lighting Company in the late 1950s, he set out to create a lamp that not only looked beautiful but also solved a problem. At the time, many homes had low ceilings, which made traditional pendant lamps impractical. Henningsen sought to design a lamp that would provide even illumination while also being practical for any ceiling height.
Henningsen’s solution was to create a lamp with multiple shades that would direct the light downward, while also reflecting light upward to illuminate the ceiling. The PH5’s unique shape features five shades arranged in layers, each one slightly smaller than the last. The result is a lamp that provides even illumination and eliminates glare, making it perfect for any room in the home.
The Colors: A Rainbow of Possibilities
One of the unique features of the Lampa PH5 is the range of colors available. Originally, the lamp was only available in the standard white finish. However, as the popularity of the PH5 grew, Louis Poulsen began introducing new colors. Today, the PH5 is available in a range of vibrant colors, including blue, green, orange, red, and yellow. The lamp’s unique shape and functional design make it a perfect canvas for color experimentation.
The Illumination: Direct and Indirect Light
The PH5’s unique shades not only provide even illumination throughout a space but also direct light both downward and upward. The five-layered shade design directs light downward, illuminating the room below, while also reflecting light upward to illuminate the ceiling.
The Balance: The Secret to Perfect Illumination
The balance of the shades and the way they are arranged is the secret to the PH5’s perfect illumination. The bottom three shades are painted white on the inside to reflect maximum light, while the upper two shades are painted in a contrasting color to create a warm glow. The carefully calibrated shades work together to create a balanced and harmonious lighting effect.
The Legacy: An Enduring Classic
The Lampa PH5 was an immediate success when it was introduced in 1958, and it has remained a design icon ever since. The lamp has been reissued several times over the years, and variations on the PH5 design have been created for different applications, including table lamps, wall lamps, and floor lamps.
The Future: The PH5 Continues to Inspire
Despite being more than six decades old, the Lampa PH5 continues to inspire designers and lighting enthusiasts today. The lamp’s timeless design, unparalleled functionality, and innovative use of color make it a favorite among those who appreciate good design. As long as there are lovers of good design, the Lampa PH5 will remain a testament to the lasting value of form and function united.
Conclusion
The Lamp