Introduction
Vintage bubble lamps have been a timeless feature in interior design since their inception in the mid-20th century. Originally designed as a way to incorporate lighting into futuristic ‘space-age’ furniture, bubble lamps have since become a popular decorative piece in both modern and retro-themed households. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at vintage bubble lamps, their history, design, and how to incorporate them into your home.
History of Bubble Lamps
The invention of bubble lamps is credited to an American designer by the name of George Nelson. Nelson created the first bubble lamp in 1947 for his company, The Herman Miller Furniture Company. The lamp was made from a steel wireframe, covered in a translucent plastic material, with a light bulb placed in the middle to provide illumination.
Initially, bubble lamps were considered to be futuristic and avant-garde. They were designed to be incorporated into modern furniture, such as the iconic Eames Lounge Chair. During the late 1950s and 1960s, bubble lamps rose in popularity and became mainstream household items. Bubble lamps have since become a fixture in mid-century modern design.
Design of Bubble Lamps
Bubble lamps are typically spherical or oval in shape, and they come in a variety of sizes to suit various uses. The most common sizes are the 12-inch, 16-inch, and 20-inch spherical lamps. Bubble lamps often come with a hanging chain and are designed to be suspended from the ceiling.
The lamps are created by blowing a piece of translucent plastic over a wireframe. The result is a smooth, seamless surface which is illuminated by a light bulb located in the center of the lamp. The plastic material used to create bubble lamps is often a type of polyethylene, which is lightweight, easy to manipulate, and durable.
How to Incorporate Bubble Lamps into Your Home
Bubble lamps can be incorporated into your home in a variety of ways. One popular option is to use them as a statement piece in your living room. They can be used as a centerpiece on a coffee table, or hung from the ceiling to create an ambient glow.
Bubble lamps can also be placed in bedrooms, where they can provide a soft, relaxing light for reading. They can be hung from the ceiling or placed on nightstands, adding a touch of retro-chic to the room.
Another way to incorporate bubble lamps into your home is by using them in your office or workspace. Bubble lamps can provide a unique touch to your workspace, adding personality and character to the room.
Tips for Maintaining Bubble Lamps
To maintain the beauty of your bubble lamp, it is important to keep them clean. Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth to wipe the lamp clean, and avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning agents.
When storing your bubble lamp, make sure to wrap it in a soft cloth or bubble wrap to prevent damage.
When changing the bulb, make sure to turn off the lamp and let it cool down for a few minutes before handling it. Use a bulb with the correct wattage for your lamp to prevent overheating.
