Housed on a colourful bulb holder with a built-in switch, the sizeable exposed bulb is what gives the Lampadina table lamp its industrial character. Partially sandblasted to diffuse a soft yet direct glow, Lampadina sits perfectly within contemporary interiors, ideal for illuminating a workspace or quiet reading corner.
Beginning life as an exclusive piece, the Lampadina’s appeal was such that it was quickly put into mass production. Named after the Italian word for lightbulb, the minimalist bulb holder turns the humble bulb into a distinct, modernist centrepiece. The base is shaped like a reel, allowing you to wind up surplus cable and reduce the distraction caused by the trailing wire.
One of the most important industrial designers of the 20th century, Achille Castiglioni produced more than 150 products during his career and forged enduring relationships with Italian manufacturers such as Flos in lighting, Zanotta in furniture and Alessi in home products.
For all his honours and achievements, Castiglioni remained as curious, challenging and inventive as ever until his death in 2002. Superbly resolved as his work was in terms of its formal qualities, he never lost his wit or his delight in paradox.
In celebration of what would have been his 100th birthday, we take a closer look at Achille & Pier Giacomo Castiglioni’s most iconic designs: the inimitable Flos Arco Lamp.
