Poul Henningsen

Poul Henningsen, renowned for his iconic lamp designs, was a multifaceted author, critic, architect, and designer.

Born to an actress and a satirical author north of Copenhagen, PH initially worked as a mason before studying architecture and design, although he never graduated.

A self-taught inventor and designer, PH gained recognition for his critiques of art, architecture, and society through his writings.

During the onset of World War II, PH served as the head architect of Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen. His fascination with light led him to focus on lamp design, aiming to replicate the soft, relaxing glow of the petroleum lamps from his childhood, rather than exposing observers to harsh electric light.

Established in 1919, PH’s design studio saw the fruition of his efforts in 1924 with the creation of his multi-shade lamp. The innovative design of the three shades ensured perfect light distribution and minimized glare.

Known as the ‘PH lamp’ or ‘Paris lamp’ after winning a competition in Paris, PH’s best-known models include the PH Artichoke and PH5. These lamps laid the economic foundation for his later work, and many of his lighting fixtures, such as the PH5 Pendant Lamp, are still produced by Louis Poulsen today.

While PH is best known for his lamps, he also designed numerous furniture pieces between 1919 and the mid-50s, many of which are still in production today.

Poul Henningsen’s legacy extends beyond his iconic designs. His innovative approach to lighting and furniture has influenced generations of designers and continues to inspire contemporary design. His work is celebrated for its timeless elegance and functionality, making it a staple in both modern and classic interiors. The PH lamp series remains a symbol of sophisticated design and is highly sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts alike. Henningsen’s commitment to creating beautiful, functional pieces has left an ingrained mark on the world of design, ensuring that his contributions will be remembered and cherished for years to come

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