Renowned worldwide for its iconic designs, Louis Poulsen has crafted some of the most celebrated lighting fixtures in history, such as the PH series and the Artichoke. From the timeless PH 5 design by Poul Henningsen, with its layered diffusers that create soft, glare-free light, to the striking Artichoke fixture, designed in 1958 for the Langelinie Pavilion restaurant in Copenhagen, the brand has become a key reference point in the worlds of design and architecture.
The PH 5, with its enduring design and carefully calibrated light distribution, has become a staple in a wide range of architecture and interior design projects. Likewise, the Artichoke, with its sculptural structure formed by 72 overlapping leaves, stands out for its complexity and innovation, creating sophisticated, decorative lighting that fits seamlessly into both residential and commercial spaces.
Founded in 1874 in Denmark, Louis Poulsen started as a small business producing tools and electrical components, evolving over time to become one of the world’s most influential lighting design brands. Its journey to success is closely linked to its collaboration with Poul Henningsen, who, in the 1920s, helped shape the company’s unique vision of light. Henningsen’s PH series revolutionized lighting concepts by focusing on soft, uniform illumination rather than simply producing objects that emit light.
This partnership laid the foundation for Louis Poulsen’s ethos: an approach centered on people and on the interaction between light, architecture, and design. Over time, the brand expanded its portfolio by collaborating with other renowned designers, such as Arne Jacobsen and Verner Panton, further enriching Louis Poulsen’s visual and technical vocabulary.
Louis Poulsen’s approach to lighting design goes beyond merely providing light—it’s about creating environments through light. The brand’s philosophy, “Design for People,” reflects a deep understanding of how light influences space and human experience. Louis Poulsen’s lighting is designed to shape atmospheres, highlight architectural features, and enhance the well-being of its users.
Each fixture is meticulously designed to provide soft, controlled, and glare-free light. This concept can be seen across Louis Poulsen’s entire product line, from its elegant pendants to its wall and table lamps, which are more than mere decorative pieces; they are essential design tools that shape how we perceive and experience spaces.
In 2024, Louis Poulsen celebrated its 150th anniversary, a milestone that underscores its lasting impact on the lighting industry. Throughout its 150-year history, the brand has stayed true to its Scandinavian roots, developing products that combine simplicity, functionality, and timeless aesthetics. To mark this anniversary, the company released special editions of some of its most iconic designs, such as the Artichoke and PH 5, reaffirming its ability to innovate while honoring the legacy it has built.
Louis Poulsen’s lighting expertise goes far beyond aesthetics. The brand is a leader in the study of light, material, and spatial interaction. Each fixture is engineered to distribute light with precision, highlighting architectural elements without compromising visual comfort. This deep understanding of light makes Louis Poulsen a trusted choice for architects and interior designers who seek lighting solutions that elevate spatial experiences.
The brand’s dedication to technical innovation further distinguishes it. Over the years, Louis Poulsen has invested in research and development to ensure its lighting solutions not only offer energy efficiency but also contribute to creating unique and functional environments. This combination of technical skill and artistic vision has made Louis Poulsen lighting widely appreciated in high-quality architectural projects, from residential to commercial settings.
With 150 years of history and an unparalleled legacy, Louis Poulsen remains a global benchmark in lighting design. Its iconic designs and people-centered philosophy make its fixtures essential to architecture and interior design projects. At Desenhabitado, we are committed to working with brands that share our values of excellence and innovation. Louis Poulsen is one such brand, offering lighting solutions that not only enrich spaces but also create unique and unforgettable atmospheres.
