Classic Danish Design: Bubi by Henning Koppel for Carl Hansen & Son and Pandul

Trained in drawing and sculpture at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts and the Academie Rancon in Paris, Danish designer Henning Koppel created lamps, furniture, and accessories such as clocks and porcelain for well-known mid-century companies. One of his famous pieces, the pendant light known simply as Bubi, is being reissued by Pandul and Carl Hansen & Son (since 2011, the two companies have had an international collaboration, with Carl Hansen & Son selling and marketing Pandul lighting).

Bubi. Designed by Henning Koppel. Manufactured by Carl Hansen & Son and Pandul.

Perfectly Simple Chrome and Acrylic Pendant Lamp

Bubi. Designed by Henning Koppel. Manufactured by Carl Hansen & Son and Pandul.

Bubi is all about the simple lines and shapes for which the Danish are known. A little spaceship suspended on a textile cord, Bubi has a dual nature: one half chrome and one half opal acrylic. These two materials meet in the middle, each fighting for the spotlight. Both the high-gloss shade and the chrome steel top shine brilliantly, reflecting the luster of the other—it’s a win-win situation where radiance and balance dominate.

Bubi. Designed by Henning Koppel. Manufactured by Carl Hansen & Son and Pandul.

To counter the bulbous roundness of the lamp, Bubi comes with a textile cord that presents the simple beauty of the line. Its texture also works in contrast with Bubi’s shade, providing a welcome touch of soft opacity. Color further enhances Bubi—the lamp comes with a white or black cord and with various additional colors that change seasonally.

Bubi. Designed by Henning Koppel. Manufactured by Carl Hansen & Son and Pandul.

Via Archiproducts.

About the Manufacturer: In 2008, manufacturer Carl Hansen & Son celebrated their 100th. anniversary—quite an accomplishment for a family-run business that originally focused on bespoke furniture. Founder Carl Hansen operated his shop out of Odense, Denmark, where he “created everything from dining room sets to bedroom suites.” With the evolution of the times, the manufacturer began to focus on series production, while remaining ever-mindful of its origins and its excellent reputation for fine hand-crafted woodwork. In the late 40’s, Carl Hansen & Son brought young designer Hans Wegner into the fold. The rest, as they say, is history, as the Hansen-Wegner collaboration resulted in multiple iconic designs, including the CH 22-25 series chairs, the CH 110 Desk, and the CH 07 Shell Chair.

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