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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.

“The Anglepoise is a minor miracle of balance, a quality in life we do not value as we should”
Sir Kenneth Grange

Our 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…

2021

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.

2019

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.

1985

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.

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