Discover a cross-section of classic and contemporary swing arm wall lamps.
Swing arm wall lamps can be traced back to the early 20th century, originally designed for libraries and reading spaces. Gaining popularity during the mid-century modern movement, swing arm wall lamps are favoured for their ability to direct light and ‘spotlight’ interiors. In this feature, we explore nine standout swing arm wall lamps that reflect the flexibility and versatility of their design intent.
The Espie by Georgina Jeffries, featuring the Workstead Wall Lamp | Photography by Cricket Photography Studio
City Apartment AG by Dries De Malsche, featuring the Serge Mouille Applique 2 Bras Droit Pivotant | Photography by Piet-Albert Goethals
Nemo Lampe De Marseille
Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier was guided by utility more than looks when he designed the Lampe De Marseille for Nemo in 1954. The result just happens to graduate in both.
Petite Friture Vertigo Nova
French designer Constance Guisset intended for the Vertigo Nova to evoke a sense of mystery through its unusual canopy shape and soft glow.
Pierre Yovanovitch Laura Wall Lamp
This sculptural wall lamp by French designer Pierre Yovanovitch typifies an elevated understanding of modern design principles and materials.
Workstead Wall Lamp
New York-based multi-disciplinary studio Workstead were inspired by 19th-century factory lighting while designing this wall lamp. The lamp’s metal shade can rotate 360 degrees, making it both mobile and versatile.
Lambert & Fils Beaubien Wall Double Shade
This wall lamp by Montreal-based design studio Lambert & Fils features an asymmetrical design, underpinned by strong, dynamic black lines.
DCW Editions Mantis Wall Lamp
Movement is intrinsic to all of Bernard Schottlander’s work; the British designer, artist and engineer created the Mantis lighting series for DCW Editions by combining delicate metal work and a clever system of counterweights.
Serge Mouille Applique 2 Bras Droit Pivotant
French goldsmith Serge Mouille is considered, to this day, one of the most influential lighting designers of the 20th century, having risen to fame in the 1950s with his series of “black shapes”. All of Serge’s designs, including this wall lamp, have been re-released with the greatest respect for his original craftsmanship.
Flos 265 Wall Lamp
The 265 wall lamp’s adjustable steel arm, designed by Italian architect Paola Rizzatto for Flos, makes it perfect for directing light above a table or workspace.
Paul Matter Flutter Light
New Delhi-based lighting studio Paul Matter put their spin on a deconstructed wall clock with the elegant rotating hands of their Flutter Light.
Fitzroy North Home by Rob Kennon Architects, featuring the Flos 265 wall lamp | Photography by Derek Swalwell
