The mushroom lamp is the enchanting retro trend you need on your bedside table this year

When architect Verner Panton created the Panthella Mushroom Lamp in 1971, he never could have predicted that his charismatic design would not only prevail, but thrive, fifty years later. 

Today, there is a craving for the extraordinary sense of escapism that these bedside lamps offer- with the increasing desire to unwind in a mystical new environment, while physical travel remains restricted. 

In a tribute to this Danish icon, Louis Poulsen (opens in new tab) is releasing a new medium-sized Panthella Table lamp, alongside a revamp of their Panthella Mini and Table 320, in a distinctive brass metalized finish. It is its golden anniversary, after all. 

This milestone could not come at a better time for the Panthella Mushroom, as interior lovers are falling under the organic spell of this magic fungi, and our favorite designers are serving up mushroom inspired furnishings to cure our satisfaction by the plate-full.

What makes this light so charming, and why can we expect it to be big news in 2021?

'There are two sides to the rise of the mushroom. The first has been led by that 70s Murano mushroom lamp you've seen all over Instagram and a growing interest in vintage homewares,' explains Jen Hore, Head of Brand at Trouva. 

'In the case of the Flat Mushroom Vintage Blue Night Lamp (opens in new tab), the humble mushroom adds a playful touch to living rooms and bedrooms, predominantly through soft lighting in pastel or all-white styles.' 

'On the flip side, we've seen brands like Farelab and Bloomingville offer products in a more traditional toadstool shape,' continues Jen. 'Magical in a fairytale sense, they can offer a warm and whimsical touch to children's bedrooms and nurseries.' 

Furthermore, Sabina Miller, the Head Buyer at Heal's, emphasized the growing desire to take home a mushroom lamp and why they are trending now, more than ever, as Covid-19 is shaping design trends.

'Spending so much time at home has led to customers becoming more relaxed with their interior choices, creating spaces which boldly reflect their personalities. The silhouette offered by mushroom-like designs is a great way to add interest to an existing scheme and create an element of fun that will bring a smile to your face,' shared Sabina. 

She added: ‘As we see the first signs of spring emerge, mushroom-inspired accessories can also be a subtle way of bringing a sense of the outdoors into the home, thanks to their gentle curves paired with a simple palette of warm, earthy neutrals. Breaking up linear elements of a room with soft, organic lines can inspire a sense of calm, while the playful nature of mushroom décor will provide a subtle quirkiness.

Pieces such as the Mushroom Lamp by Ligne Roset (opens in new tab) add a twist to the typical table light blueprint, with its bright white finish offering a striking yet elegant look.'

The success of the original Panthella light and the mushroom-shaped furnishing, which is blooming this season, has the power to add a verdant beauty to any sized room- instantaneously.  Illuminate your bedroom, living room, or kitchen with a mushroom lamp, and admire the timeless mystery of this Danish woodland treat. 

The new Panthella Table lamp will be available at Louis Poulsen from spring 2021.