Easy on the eyes. Poul Henningsen sought to create glare-free lighting throughout his career as a designer, and for that we're grateful. This three-shade system was developed in 1925-1926 as entry in design expo in Paris, and it looks a lot simpler than it is. His aim was to direct light where it was most needed, to creating soft shadows while using incandescent bulbs as a light source (sucks to be American, we'll have to settle for LEDs, boo hiss). Henningsen was the first person to pursue a scientific approach to light and use the logarithmic spiral as a basis. By using a design based on the logarithmic spiral, he achieved even distribution of light over the entire curve of the shade. This even light distribution, together with the diffuse reflection through the glass, made it possible to control glare and shadow. He really was on a mission.

At the time, no one knew that the PH 5 would become synonymous with the PH light, which remains 100% glare-free, irrespective of how the light is installed or which light source is used. Today, PH 5 continues to elevate even the most modern interiors, as does the PH 5 Mini with a top shade diameter of 30 centimeters, introduced in the spirit of Henningsen in 2017. Louis Poulsen wishes to cater to contemporary and creative living, and therefore has resized the famous pendant for the first time. In 2020, the PH 5 Mini Monochrome series was introduced to emphasize this striking design for a more contemporary look. The matte-painted metal shades come in a number of cool colors.