ANGLEPOISE - Abandon Darkness
How it all began: the lightbulb moment
In 1932, British automotive engineer George Carwardine invented the formula for a new kind of spring mechanism. It was originally intended to be part of a vehicle suspension system, but instead, something clicked. This elegant and responsive invention, which could be positioned at any angle with the lightest touch, would work perfectly in a lamp. That day in George’s garden shed, the blueprint for the iconic Anglepoise was born.
Since then, Anglepoise founders the Terry family, have overseen the Anglepoise style evolution for the last eight decades, always staying true to its quirky spirit.
Working alongside legends such as Sir Kenneth Grange, Paul Smith and Margaret Howell have made sure it stays on the cutting edge of British design. But the unique functionality and playful form remain the same. After all, when you’ve created one of the world’s most recognisable design classics, why change it? Now, Anglepoise lamps are in homes, offices, hotels and garden sheds all around the world, and they’ve even been passed on through generations.
We have a feeling that if George was around today, that might just put a spring in his step.
"The Anglepoise is a minor miracle of balance, a quality in life we do not value as we should."
- Sir Kenneth Grange
About The Designers
From the creation of the iconic Original 1227™ lamp, the brainchild of British automotive engineer George Carwardine, to the development of extended collections by esteemed industrial product designer Sir Kenneth Grange, and the most recent venture, a collaboration with Britain’s foremost designer Paul Smith, incomparable British design is at the heart and soul of Anglepoise. It is no surprise that examples of these lamps can be found in homes and offices, restaurants, bars, hotels, and even in museums around the world.
The Royal Mail has celebrated the Original 1227™ design alongside such fine British Design Classics as the Mini, Penguin books, and the Routemaster Bus.
George Cawardine
When automotive engineer, George Carwardine chanced upon a formula for a new kind of spring, he had created the blueprint for a groundbreaking articulated task lamp that could combine ultimate flexibility with perfect stability. Two years later the Original 1227™ was born.
Sir Kenneth Grange
Design Director of Anglepoise since 2003, Sir Kenneth Grange began his illustrious career as a technical illustrator whilst in National Service. Grange’s remarkable work spans half a century and his user-centered, often quintessentially British designs have helped shape the parameters of everyday life for so many.
Paul Smith
Paul Smith is Britain’s foremost designer. He is renowned for his creative aesthetic, which combines tradition and modernity. Reaffirming the values that Paul set down in 1970, ‘classic with a twist’ remains the guiding principle of the company.
Margaret Howell
Esteemed British designer Margaret Howell has frequently championed the Anglepoise lamp, admiring the similar design qualities that are the essence of her clothing: simplicity, functionality, authenticity and timelessness.
Design Principles
The Anglepoise lamp has always been rooted in design excellence. Its timeless form continues to delight makers and doers, providing focus and light just where and when it’s needed.
While steeped in history, it’s the future that will define Anglepoise for a new generation. The brand emphasises anti-disposability and pro-longevity, with collaborations with some of the world’s leading designers, who share the same values and design principles, opening up Anglepoise to brand new audiences.
1. Understanding Purpose
Anglepoise products are designed to solve human problems, serving a purpose and fitting the task at hand.
2. Exceptional Focus
The brand focuses on doing one thing exceptionally well, bringing learnings, experience, and knowledge.
3. Durability
Anglepoise builds products using methods and materials that will last. Their products are guaranteed for life, as they believe things should last a lifetime and beyond.
4. Interactivity
The products are designed to be responsive and encourage interaction. Materials and details are chosen to invite the human touch, ensuring elegance, proportion, balance, and fingertip responsiveness.
5. Creating Joy
Anglepoise designs products that create a smile. The objects that become treasured possessions are those that somehow make users smile.
6. Openness
The brand pursues openness, seeking feedback to learn, adapt, and improve. Collaborations with like-minded partners are fostered for the greater good.
7. Authenticity and Delight
Anglepoise remains true to its iconic heritage, guided by the original principles and ideas. The brand aims to constantly surprise and delight within that authentic vision, making users smile when using their products.
8. Longevity
Anglepoise is led by the overriding principle of taking the long view, growing a company, and creating products that are built to last, even to be loved, for a lifetime and beyond.
Anglepoise is committed to sustainability, building it into their products and culture. The brand focuses on enduring designs, starting with their lights. An Anglepoise lamp is designed to be a lifelong companion, not only as a piece of classic design but as a useful addition to daily life.
While acknowledging imperfection, Anglepoise is on a journey to be better today than yesterday, in line with their Abandon Darkness philosophy.
