Louis Poulsen PH Lights

Poul Henningsen first designed lights for Louis Poulsen in 1925, and spent the rest of his life pursuing the same goal: illumination that is completely free of glare, directs light where it’s needed, and casts soft, flattering shadows. Every PH lamp is built on the same principle — a system of layered shades that redirect light downward and outward while concealing the source entirely.

The PH 5, launched in 1958, is perhaps the most recognised of his designs: three staggered aluminium disc shades that distribute light evenly in every direction without a hint of glare. That same year, Henningsen completed the PH Artichoke — 72 laser-cut leaves arranged in 12 rows, originally designed for Langelinie Pavilion in Copenhagen, and still one of the most complex pendants ever made. The Snowball was also designed in 1958 but went unnoticed at exhibition; it wasn’t manufactured until 1983, when it finally found the audience it deserved.

Beyond the icons, the PH range spans table lamps, wall lights, floor lamps, and portable lights — each sharing the same optical rigour and the same unmistakable silhouette. Few lighting families have remained this relevant for this long.