The Copenhagen Pendant is a true design icon, known for its timeless elegance and understated charm. Designed by Danish architects Vilhelm Lauritzen and Louis Poulsen in 1947, this pendant light has remained a popular choice among design enthusiasts and architects alike. In this article, we will delve deeper into the history and design of the Copenhagen Pendant, and explore why it continues to be a coveted fixture.
History of Copenhagen Pendant
In the aftermath of World War II, the reconstruction of Copenhagen was underway. Danish architect, Vilhelm Lauritzen was tasked with designing the new airport terminal for Copenhagen. Lauritzen was known for his functionalist approach to design, which he later carried forward when tasked with designing lighting fixtures for the new terminal building.
In 1947, Louis Poulsen, a lighting manufacturer in Denmark, approached Lauritzen with a request to design a pendant light for the new terminal. Lauritzen had already developed a prototype for a pendant light that was designed to illuminate the desks in the terminal’s check-in hall, and he adapted this design to create the Copenhagen Pendant. This pendant light was designed to provide both direct and indirect lighting, with the light source hidden behind a perforated metal shade.
The Copenhagen Pendant was an instant hit, and it quickly became a symbol of Danish design. The pendant light was widely used in public spaces, including airports, hotels, and offices, and it became an integral part of modernist architecture.
Design Features
The Copenhagen Pendant is defined by its clean, simple lines and functional design. The pendant light is made up of a large shade that is suspended from a thin, aluminum stem. The shade is made of stainless steel, painted white, and has 12 slots that allow light to shine through.
The design of the Copenhagen Pendant is based on Lauritzen’s belief that lighting design should be unobtrusive and blend seamlessly with the architecture. The pendant light is designed to provide a functional yet elegant source of light, without drawing attention away from the space it is illuminating.
Materials and Manufacturing Process
The Copenhagen Pendant is made from high-quality materials that have been carefully selected for their durability and aesthetic qualities. The shade is made of stainless steel, which is resistant to rust and corrosion, and is painted white to provide a soft, diffused light. The stem is made of aluminum, which is lightweight and strong.
The manufacturing process of the Copenhagen Pendant is a testament to the skill and expertise of Danish craftsmen. Each pendant light is meticulously handcrafted, with great attention to detail. The shade is punched, rolled, and welded by skilled workers who have honed their craft over years of practice.
Applications and Usage
The Copenhagen Pendant is versatile and can be used in a variety of settings, from residential to commercial spaces. The pendant light is ideal for use in dining rooms, living rooms, and bedrooms, where it provides soft, ambient lighting. It is also well-suited for use in offices, libraries, and public spaces, where it can be used to create a refined and elegant atmosphere.
The Copenhagen Pendant has been used in notable architectural projects, including the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen, designed by Arne Jacobsen, and the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, designed by Jacob Bakema and Ben van Berkel.
The Copenhagen Pendant is a true design classic that has stood the test of time. Its elegant, understated design and high-quality craftsmanship have made it a coveted fixture for design enthusiasts and architects alike. The pendant light continues to be used in residential and commercial settings, and its timeless design ensures that it will remain a coveted fixture for years to come.
