Louis Poulsen PH 5 500 Pendant Light

Manufacturer: Louis Poulsen | Designer: Poul Henningsen

Light Without Glare

Poul Henningsen, the Danish writer, architect, and designer, spent his career pursuing one idea: light without glare. In 1958 he created the PH 5 in direct response to the unpredictability of incandescent bulbs, whose varying shapes and sizes made consistent, comfortable light almost impossible to achieve. His solution was a three-shade system that was designed to accommodate variations in bulb shape and size while directing light precisely, downward, laterally, and back through the fixture itself, producing a warm, even glow with no harsh edges.

The PH5 became the lamp in Denmark. Found in public buildings and private homes alike, it remains one of the most recognised pendant lights in the world.

The three-shade system directs the majority of light downward while emitting a lateral glow and illuminating the fixture from within, creating a soft radiance at the core. A frosted glass diffuser on the lower shade helps screen the bulb and soften the downward light.

Available in Classic White and New White, alongside Monochrome, Pastels and Hues Of colourways, as well as Brass and Copper. The finishes offer a choice of single-colour shades, layered colour combinations and metallic surfaces.

Please note: copper and brass surfaces are untreated and will develop a natural patina over time.

Specifications

• Dimensions: Ø50 × H26.7cm | Cable length: 3m
• Light source: E27, max 75W (not included)
• Shades and anti-glare disc: spun copper, brass, or aluminium
• Lower shade: spun steel with frosted glass diffuser
• Struts: rolled aluminium
• Canopy: included
• Cord: black textile cord for Monochrome Black, Monochrome Burgundy and Monochrome Dusty Indigo; white textile cord for all other listed finishes
• IP rating: IP20
• Electrical protection: Class II

Also available as the PH 5 300 Pendant. Part of the Louis Poulsen PH Lights collection.