Founded in 1934, Anglepoise’s functional designs have changed very little over the years, and that’s the beauty of it. Kenneth Grange’s Type 75 Desk Lamp design has remained unchanged since its birth in the 1970s. Paul Smith opened its doors in 1970 and, much like Anglepoise, the tailor has maintained a distinctive style throughout 50 years. In their own ways, both brands begin from a point of simplicity, whether that’s a simple spring mechanism or a classically tailored pair of trousers. From there, use of colour and proportion work to distinguish the products from the crowd. At OPUMO, we think this is the ideal journey for design: intelligent creative flair that’s instantly noticeable without having to perform for your attention. In the words of Paul Smith: “Classic with a twist,” seems to fit squarely with the values of Anglepoise too.
Together, Paul Smith and legendary industrial designer Kenneth Grange create the Anglepoise Paul Smith Collection, reinterpreting the Anglepoise Type 75 range. Beginning with the bare form of Anglepoise’s Type 75 and ending with Paul Smith’s masterful colour schemes, the ongoing collaboration advocates a ‘function before form’ approach to design. Here are our favourite characters from the collection.
Anglepoise Paul Smith 4th Edition Type 75 Mini Desk Lamp
While the first three editions of Anglepoise Paul Smith focused on colour, the fourth edition revolves around size. Paul Smith revisits a colour scheme used for a unique Land Rover Defender which refers to the car’s multi-purpose, utilitarian background in farming and the emergency services. Available in three sizes: mini, midi and maxi, this mini iteration is ideal for supplying light to your desk.
Anglepoise Paul Smith 4th Edition Type 75 Floor Lamp
One step up from the mini model, this floor lamp stands on a 91cm pole which shifts the possible uses of the item. Make more room on your desk by utilising the floor stand or position the lamp behind your favourite chair or sofa for the perfect spotlight to read by. The deep, earthy burgundy, grey, sky blue, green and rich clay hues of the colour scheme contrast with a flash of fluorescent yellow – the kind of chromatic surprise that we’ve come to expect from Britain’s favourite tailor.
Anglepoise Edition Two Paul Smith Type 75 Mini Desk Lamp
Anglepoise Paul Smith Edition One dealt with the colours of summer, bright but soft. Edition Two moved into the deep, rich hues of autumn. Purple works harmoniously with dark green while a flash of orange acts as a bold eye-catcher. Instil your study with autumn-ready style.
Anglepoise Giant Paul Smith Type 75 Lamp
This giant lamp is certainly the star of the show. Reaching up to 270cm from base to shade, this piece makes a real statement thanks in no small part to its vibrant colour scheme. Paul Smith says: “The giant one is pretty extraordinary and in a big space looks sensational.” We’d have to agree, it’s pretty hard to miss. Still perfectly in proportion, the giant lamp verges on illusory, seemingly shrinking nearby items and, perhaps, people.
Shop Anglepoise Paul Smith at OPUMO.
For more autumnal home essentials, take a look at our rundown of Rug Solid's collection.
