A LOOK INTO THE PAST Design of the PH 5 lamp: Elegance and functionality

Poul Henningsen , a Danish writer, designer and architect, left an indelible mark in the world of lighting with his unique visions and innovations. Born in 1894, Henningsen always pursued one goal through his works – to capture the perfection of the “golden hour”, that magical moment when the sun illuminates the world with soft, warm light.

His 1958 creation, the PH 5 lamp design, was a response to problematic changes in the size and shape of light bulbs, which often caused glare. Henningsen wanted to avoid this unpleasant phenomenon and create a lighting fixture that would provide soft, unobtrusive light, regardless of the type of bulb. The result was a striking and versatile lamp that could adapt to any light bulb.

It soon became known as the PH lamp throughout Denmark. The PH 5 model, initially used in public buildings and private homes, soon became a symbol of lighting design throughout the country.

A unique shade system

The PH 5 lamp is based on Henningsen’s famous system of three shades. Its pyramidal structure allows the light to spread not only downwards, but also sideways. Thus, the lamp itself becomes a source of gentle, rich light, completely without glare. This design ensures that the space is evenly lit, creating a pleasant atmosphere without sharp contrasts. In its early editions, the original PH 5 lamp had red and blue shades that improved the color of the light. However, later models removed these shades, as modern light sources became capable of more faithfully replicating natural daylight.

PH 5 design that transcends time

The classic design of the PH 5 lamp is still a favorite design choice , thanks to its ability to adapt to any space and style. Different styles, colors and shapes bring distinctive light to living rooms, dining rooms and kitchens around the world. The PH 5 Mini has also become particularly popular, with its smaller dimensions enabling the installation of several lamps together, creating light harmony in the space. The different colors of PH 5 lamps, from classic to modern, enable the creation of dynamic light effects.

All this together makes this lamp a perfect addition to any interior. New releases, such as a subtle shade of pink or a monochromatic blue, allow users to customize their lighting to their own taste.