Poul Henningsen’s Timeless Designs Take Centre Stage at IKEA

As the famous Danish designer Poul Henningsen once said, “The most important aspect of light is not the lamp itself, but the light it spreads”. And it is precisely this principle that has made his lighting designs so iconic and enduring. This principle can be seen clearly in his partnership with IKEA, and in this article, we will explore his work with the furniture giant and how it has helped cement his place in design history.

The Partnership between Poul Henningsen and IKEA

Poul Henningsen’s relationship with IKEA began in the 1950s when the Swedish furniture company approached him to design a lamp for their collection. Henningsen’s vision for lighting was firmly rooted in his belief that illumination should be soft, diffuse and non-glare, and he believed that good lighting should be functional as well as aesthetically pleasing. This philosophy perfectly aligned with IKEA’s own vision of functional design and affordability, and thus began a partnership that would span decades.

Over the years, Henningsen designed several iconic lamps for IKEA, each one a testament to his design ethos. The most well-known of these is perhaps the PH5 lamp, which he designed in 1958. This lamp was a masterpiece of engineering and design, with its symmetrical shape and ingeniously crafted layers of shades, which provided a warm and flattering light. It quickly became a best-seller for IKEA and remains so to this day, a testament to Henningsen’s timeless design.

Henningsen’s Impact on Lighting Design

Poul Henningsen’s influence on lighting design cannot be overstated. His innovative use of materials and his focus on the diffuse and non-glare quality of light transformed the way people thought about illumination. Before Henningsen, traditional lamps relied on harsh, direct light, which often caused discomfort and eye strain. Henningsen’s lamps, on the other hand, offered a softer, more natural light that created a warm and inviting atmosphere.

His work also challenged the traditional notion of what a lamp should look like, with his designs often featuring multiple shades and layers, creating a collage-like effect. This approach allowed for an increased number of lighting options, enabling users to choose the perfect level of illumination for their needs.

The Enduring Appeal of Henningsen’s Designs

The enduring appeal of Henningsen’s designs is rooted in his deep understanding of the relationship between light, people, and space. He firmly believed that good lighting is vital for a healthy and happy life, and his lamps were designed to honor that belief. The PH5 lamp, for example, was created to provide a warm and inviting light that would make people feel at home. This kind of attention to detail and human-centric design is what sets Henningsen’s work apart and ensures its enduring appeal.

Another reason for the enduring appeal of Henningsen’s designs is their timelessness. Despite being created in the mid-20th century, his lamps have a contemporary feel that means they still fit perfectly into modern interiors. The PH5, for example, is available in a range of colors, allowing it to fit perfectly into any color scheme.

Poul Henningsen’s Legacy

Poul Henningsen passed away in 1967, but his impact on design continues to be felt today. His influence can be seen in the work of designers around the world, and his designs remain as popular as ever. His work with IKEA has helped to introduce his designs to a wider audience and has ensured that his vision of functional and affordable lighting design continues to be relevant.

In conclusion, Poul Henningsen’s lamps for IKEA demonstrate his brilliance as a designer, his deep understanding of the relationship between light, people and space, and his commitment to creating lighting that is functional and beautiful. His legacy continues to inspire designers to this day, and his work remains a testament to the enduring appeal of good design.

Sources:

• https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/ideas/celebrating-fifty-years-of-the-ph-5-lamp-pub1c8fddcc
• https://www.designmuseum.org/exhibitions/online/poul-henningsen-1894-1967
• https://www.carlhansen.com/en/plectrum-hall/poul-henningsen-history-ikea/