The blueprint for the first Anglepoise task lamp was born, as with so many of the greatest innovations and creations (See: Steve Jobs and Walt Disney) in the garage workshop of an automotive engineer: one George Carwardine of Bath, England, in the early 1930s.
After initial applications in industry, the design quickly evolved into a domestic staple and has subsequently achieved iconic status. Its balletic engineering and engaging, anthropomorphic form is recognized and admired the world over.
From the outset, the founding Terry family have been careful custodians of the Anglepoise brand and safely seen its passage through ninety years of change, just as an Anglepoise lamp itself is passed from one generation to the next.
As a companion to creativity, the ability to place light exactly where you want it is also without compare. From illuminating the studios of Pablo Picasso and Barbara Hepworth, to their ongoing collaborations with revered British fashion designers Paul Smith and Margaret Howell, an Anglepoise is ever present.
Today, from their home in Portsmouth on the south coast of the UK, they proudly send Anglepoise products to all four corners of the globe – bringing light and longevity to all, while continuing our journey in incomparable design.
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 remains 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.
History
The timeline of a timeless design
George Carwardine unwittingly creates the first Anglepoise by inventing a new kind of spring. He discovers that they can support pivoting arms to form a flexible mechanism that responds to the most delicate touch – and stays put.
2021
Spring Light, The Anglepoise Story by Jonathan Glancey is published. A beautiful coffee table book that documents the lamp’s history, and everything that makes it so special, but also looks to the future…
Taking its collaborations in a different direction, Anglepoise introduces a three piece collection with the National Trust. The peerless Original 1227 is launched in Sage Green, in three different forms, with a percentage of monies raised going to the National Trust’s modernist treasure The Homewood.
2020
Sir Kenneth works his magic again by reimagining his ever popular Type 75 to create the Type 75 Mini Table.
2019
Designed by Kenneth Grange in his 90th year, the Type 80 is an all-new design distinguished by a striking, graphic profile.
Esteemed designer Margaret Howell grows the collaboration with Anglepoise with a new colour and matching floor lamps.
2018
The 90 Mini Mini is launched, a new, compact design from Anglepoise. Based on a 70s design, the lamp is USB-powered.
2017
Foremost British designer Paul Smith continues an on-going collaboration with Anglepoise.
2009
In 2009, in recognition of its iconic status, the Original 1227™ featured on a Royal Mail stamp alongside iconic British designs.
2004
In 2004 renowned British fashion designer Margaret Howell, an admirer of British modernism, collaborates with Anglepoise.
2003
In 2003 British product designer Sir Kenneth Grange becomes Design Director of Anglepoise.
2002
Great-great grandson of the company’s founder, Simon Terry assumes the role of MD. Anglepoise is proud of its family heritage.
1985
The Roald Dahl Museum asks for a larger-than-life version of Dahl’s beloved Original 1227™ lamp – our first Giant lamp is born.
A WW2 plane fitted with an Anglepoise navigators lamp is salvaged from Loch Ness in 1985, remarkably the lamp still works.
1935
In 1935, Carwardine and Terry’s create a 3-spring Anglepoise – the Original 1227™, the archetypal Anglepoise.
1933
Carwardine turns to springmakers Herbert Terry & Sons to manufacture the first Anglepoise lamp: the 4-spring Model 1208.
1932
In 1932 automotive engineer George Carwardine develops a formula for a new type of spring – the blueprint for an Anglepoise.
PRINCIPLES
Anglepoise Design
1. In everything we do we first understand why
Our products look like they do because they solve a human problem, serving a purpose, fit for the task in hand.
2. It’s better to do one thing exceptionally well
Focus brings learnings, experience and knowledge.
3. Durability is a joy
We build using methods and materials that will last. Our products are guaranteed for life because we feel things should last a lifetime and beyond.
4. We create products that are responsive and encourage interaction
We choose materials and details that invite the human touch, that are a pleasure to use. We design for elegance, proportion, balance and finger tip responsiveness.
5. We design to create a smile
The objects that become treasured possessions in our lives, are the ones that somehow we become attached to – that make us smile.
6. We pursue openness
We want everyone we interact with to feel part of us. We pursue feedback to learn, adapt and always improve everything we do. We foster collaborations with like minded partners, for the greater good.
7. Authenticity with delight
We will remain true to our iconic heritage guided by the original principles and ideas that created the Anglepoise. But we will aim to constantly surprise and delight within that authentic vision. After all we do want to make people smile when using our products
8. Loved beyond a lifetime
In short we are led by the overriding principle of taking The Long View and of growing a company and creating products that are built to last. Even to be loved, for a lifetime and beyond.
