Today I’m excited to introduce Louis Poulsen’s newest version of Poul Henningsen’s classic, the PH 5 Retake. In an effort to upcycle existing lamps, vintage PH 5s or timeworn pieces with surface imperfections are stripped of their paint to reveal the beautiful metals underneath. The result is an exquisitely raw finish which hints to Louis Poulsen’s vision for a more conscious world ahead, as well as the design’s success as a long-lasting symbol of Danish design tradition.
[AD]The story of the PH series began nearly a century ago when Henningsen was commissioned to design the lighting for Copenhagen’s Forum exhibition hall. The three-shade copper lamps developed for the hall would become the foundation of the PH lighting family, and over the decades the concept was adapted in many variations. In 1958 at the Copenhagen Design Museum, Henningsen introduced the now-iconic PH 5 model. Unlike the earlier three-shade models, the PH 5 featured a trumpet-shaped shade on top as well as a light-defusing frosted glass insert below, creating a 100% glare-free pendant that could be hung low over a table while softly illuminating the other surroundings. PH 5 of course went on to become one of Louis Poulsen’s most successful designs and has been sold in a spectrum of colorful paint finishes for many years.
Now taking a diversion from color, PH 5 Retake puts an emphasis on materiality and the longevity of the lamp’s beautiful silhouette. By carefully removing the paint finish, Louis Poulsen is able to give old PH 5s a new life. Each lamp is entirely one of a kind, and as of today only 100 PH 5 lamps have undergone the refinishing process. To protect the metal parts, PH 5 Retake lamps are coated with a dry lubricant that will allow the aluminum and steel to slowly patinate over time — furthering the singularity of each piece. Because of the limited quantity, PH 5 Retake can only be purchased direct from Louis Poulsen so be sure to visit their website if you’re interested in giving a home to one of these old-but-new classics.
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Shop the PH 5 Retake Lamp
Use the discount code ‘rebecca10’ to receive 10% off your Louis Poulsen purchase.
This blogpost was written in collaboration with Louis Poulsen [PR Product]
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