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Danish writer, designer, and architect Poul Henningsen (1894-1967) had a vision – to capture the golden hour. In 1958, he created the PH 5 in response to incandescent bulbs and the constant changes in their shape and size and the consequent risk of glare – something PH wanted to avoid. The result was a striking and versatile lamp that could accommodate any bulb. This soon became the PH lamp in Denmark, used in public buildings and private homes.
Known as the PH lamp, the iconic PH 5 design is based on Henningsen’s renowned three-shade system. The pyramid-like fixture effuses both descending and lateral light to illuminate itself. This ensures the light is soft, rich, and completely glare-free.
The PH 5 initially incorporated shades in red and blue to improve the light’s color. However, in the latter designs, these were taken out as modern light sources replicate daylight more successfully than before.
The classic PH 5 lamp remains a design favorite today, with several styles, hues,and shapes bringing characteristic lighting to any living space. With the introduction of the PH 5 Mini and more, these elegant pendants create glowing harmony when mounted together.
A pendant of notable design, the PH 5 is a much-loved and well-known lamp found in many homes worldwide .Different hues offer a dynamic gradient effect, making it the perfect addition to your dining room, hallway, or kitchen.
Elevate your living space with the PH 5 pendant from one of Louis Poulsen’s most credited designers. Plus, choose from classic charming colors and new color releases – ranging from pale rose to monochrome blue.
A design that transcends time and place – that’s what makes the PH 5 an icon.
For a balanced and functional placement, we suggest hanging your Louis Poulsen light fixtures at a height of approximately 24 to 28 inches from the bottom of the fixture to the table surface.
For spacing between two fixtures, we recommend placing them approximately 30 inches apart. This distance ensures optimal illumination and aesthetic balance in your dining space.
Poul Henningsen designed the PH 5 lamp in 1958. It was designed to adapt to all light sources of its time, eliminating any glare. Today, the PH 5 lamp still eliminates glare from any angle with its multi-layered shade structure, ensuring soft, evenly distributed light.
The PH 5 pendant is frequently seen hanging above lower tables in various rooms of the home. Additionally, it can be mounted higher on the ceiling to provide soft general lighting. It is also frequently used in pairs over long dining tables to create an elegant lighting arrangement.
For more specific recommendations, the PH 5 is well suited for the following rooms:
Dining room: The PH 5 is a classic Louis Poulsen pendant, perfect for hanging above the dining table, offering soft and inviting light for meals.
Living room: Hang it above a sofa table or in a corner over a side table to add warmth and a soft glow for relaxation.
Bedroom: Hang it above a bedside table or in the corner of the bedroom to create gentle, subtle lighting without harsh shadows.
Hallway: Hang it high in your hallway or low in a corner next to a console table to make an understated statement with soft, welcoming light.
The PH 5 lamp is designed to provide 100% glare-free lighting. Each lamp is partially assembled by hand in Denmark, requiring skilled craftsmanship to achieve perfect alignment and light diffusion.
While functional in origin, its design has become iconic, admired for its lighting innovation and timeless beauty.
Since 1958, the PH 5 lamp has symbolized Poul Henningsen's functional and innovative approach to lighting. The now iconic PH 5, known as the PH lamp, is based on Henningsen’s celebrated three-shade design. Its glare-free design and iconic form have made it a lasting favorite in Scandinavian homes and a true icon of functional Danish design.
Each PH 5 lamp is built to last, carefully crafted from durable materials and designed to withstand the test of time. Its timeless design and precise craftsmanship make it a cherished piece, often passed down through generations, combining longevity and sustainability.
The PH 5 lamp is more than just a classic Louis Poulsen lighting fixture. It is a timeless design piece. Even when turned off, its sculptural design enhances your room’s decor, providing a contemporary feel that blends seamlessly with most interior styles.