No worker’s desk is complete without an anglepoise lamp, and few realise that this icon of light was designed by a British car designer. George Carwardine created the anglepoise in 1932, when he was working on suspension systems; the lamp can be adjusted into a range of positions and remain stationary and self supported without the need for clamps.
With a patent granted and manufacturing under way, Carwardine evolved the four-spring design into other uses, such as a support for microphones. Still in use today, the original lamp was intended for use in working environments, but quickly found a place in homes the world over. Extensive copying and a timeless design more than helped the anglepoise lamp gain its popularity.
Did you know?
Contrary to popular belief, Carwardine’s original anglepoise design is not related nor based on the concept of human limb movement.
Tags: British Design Classics, Culture, Design