The Anglepoise lamp is an iconic lamp that has been in use for over a century. Its signature design features a weighted base, an adjustable arm, and a shade that can be positioned at any angle. The lamp has become so popular that it has been featured in movies, TV shows, and even as part of the London Design Museum’s permanent collection.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into the history of the Anglepoise lamp and the designer behind the legendary design.
The Invention of the Anglepoise Lamp
The Anglepoise lamp was invented in the 1930s by George Carwardine, a British automotive engineer. Carwardine was interested in creating an adjustable lamp that could be used in factories and workshops. He came up with a unique spring mechanism that allowed the lamp to be adjusted easily without the need for screw knobs or levers.
The first prototype was made of wood and metal, and it featured two springs that balanced the arm of the lamp. Carwardine patented the design in 1932, and soon after, he developed a three-spring mechanism that could support a heavier shade.
The Evolution of the Anglepoise Lamp
After obtaining the patent for the Anglepoise lamp, Carwardine began working with a company called Herbert Terry & Sons to manufacture the lamp commercially. The first models were sold in 1934 and were mainly used in factories and workshops.
However, the Anglepoise lamp soon became popular with architects and designers who appreciated its functionality and unique design. In the 1940s, an all-metal version was released, and the lamp was used in the offices of the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force during World War II.
The design of the Anglepoise lamp continued to evolve in the following decades. In the 1960s, the company introduced a new design called the Type 75, which featured a more streamlined and contemporary look. This model was especially popular with designers and architects, and it has become one of the most iconic models of the Anglepoise lamp.
The Innovation of George Carwardine
George Carwardine’s innovative spring mechanism was the key to the Anglepoise lamp’s success. The mechanism allowed the lamp to be adjusted easily without the need for external screws or knobs. This gave the lamp a sleek and elegant look that was ahead of its time.
The mechanism works thanks to a combination of tension springs and pivot points. The springs are located at key points along the arm of the lamp, and they work together to balance the weight of the shade.
The Impact of the Anglepoise Lamp
The Anglepoise lamp has become an icon of modern design. Its sleek design and innovative mechanism have inspired countless designers and architects over the years.
The lamp has been featured in movies such as the Batman and Harry Potter film franchises, and it has also been used in the design of many products including radios, phones, and clocks.
The Anglepoise lamp is more than just a lamp, it is an icon of modern design. George Carwardine’s innovative spring mechanism transformed the way we think about adjustable lamps, and his design has stood the test of time. The Anglepoise lamp continues to inspire designers and architects around the world, and it remains a symbol of creativity and functionality.
