Discover the timeless elegance of Bauhaus lamps for your interior

The different types of Bauhaus lamps - Glowe Studio


The Bauhaus lamp is much more than a simple lighting fixture. Originating in the 1920s during the iconic Bauhaus movement, it perfectly combines functional design with timeless aesthetics. Featuring clean geometric lines and premium materials, this lamp has endured through the decades while maintaining its distinctly modern appeal.


Versatile and universal, the Bauhaus lamp blends seamlessly into various interior styles, whether minimalist, industrial, or contemporary. Its soft lighting, paired with an elegant structure, makes it an ideal choice to enhance your decor while adding a touch of refinement. Explore our Bauhaus lamp collection to find the perfect match for your home.

I. The History of Bauhaus Lamps: Timeless Design

Bauhaus lamps trace their origins to the 1920s, at the heart of the eponymous movement in Germany led by Walter Gropius. This revolutionary trend sought to merge art, craftsmanship, and industrial production to create objects that were both functional and aesthetic.

These lamps embody the core principles of the Bauhaus movement: geometric simplicity, the absence of unnecessary details, and a focus on efficiency. Even today, Bauhaus lamps remain a significant source of inspiration, seamlessly blending timeless modernity with decades of design heritage.

The Origins of the Bauhaus Movement

The Bauhaus movement, founded in 1919 by Walter Gropius in Germany, emerged with a revolutionary vision: merging art, craftsmanship, and technology to create objects that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This avant-garde art school broke away from complex decorative traditions, emphasizing clean lines and simple geometric forms.


The main idea of Bauhaus was to meet the needs of modern society by offering accessible and harmonious designs suited for industrial production. This movement influenced not only architecture but also the creation of furniture and lighting, resulting in iconic designs that have endured over time.


The innovative principles of Bauhaus, rooted in simplicity, utility, and the integration of modern materials, laid the foundation for creations like Bauhaus lamps, which have become timeless icons of design.

Walter Gropius
The Architectural review- walter-gropius-1883-1969

The Principles of Bauhaus Design: Simplicity, Functionality, and Geometry

Bauhaus design is built on three fundamental pillars that revolutionized art and object creation: simplicity, functionality, and geometry.


  • Simplicity: Far from unnecessary ornamentation, Bauhaus emphasizes clean lines and basic forms. Each object is designed with restraint, focusing on functionality above all else.

  • Functionality: "Form follows function" is one of Bauhaus's key principles. Objects, including lamps, are designed primarily to meet practical needs. This philosophy ensures a seamless balance between usability and aesthetics.

  • Geometry: Bauhaus creations highlight geometric forms such as circles, squares, and triangles. These simple lines enable a harmonious and universal design, easily adaptable to any space.

These principles are exemplified in iconic objects like Bauhaus lamps, which perfectly embody the blend of modernity and functionality. Their timeless design continues to make them essential for fans of minimalist and clean interior decoration.

Bauhaus Lamp - Glowe Studio

The First Iconic Bauhaus Lamps

The first Bauhaus lamps made design history by embodying the movement's core principles: simplicity, functionality, and geometric harmony. Some of these creations have become timeless icons of modern design.


  • The Wagenfeld Lamp (1924): Designed by Wilhelm Wagenfeld, this table lamp is one of Bauhaus's most iconic pieces. Its minimalist design, featuring a cylindrical metal base and an opaline glass shade, perfectly reflects the Bauhaus philosophy of simplicity and functionality.

  • The Kandem Pendant Lights: These geometric pendant lights, designed in collaboration with Bauhaus workshops, became benchmarks for industrial lighting. They balance elegance and functionality, embodying the Bauhaus principles of design.

  • Marianne Brandt’s Lamps: A trailblazer in a predominantly male world, Marianne Brandt designed timeless lighting pieces such as wall sconces and metal lamps. Her creations are renowned for their perfect balance of aesthetics and practicality.

These lamps are not merely sources of light but functional works of art. They pioneered a new approach to lighting design, combining functionality with aesthetics while maintaining accessibility.

Marianne Brandt - Luminaire Bauhaus
Marianne Brandt - Self-portrait_© www.pinterest.com

II. Why Choose a Bauhaus Lamp for Your Interior?

A Bauhaus lamp is more than a light fixture—it's a timeless design piece that combines aesthetics with practicality. Opting for a Bauhaus lamp means choosing an object that transcends trends while enhancing your interior. With its clean lines and adaptability, it seamlessly fits various styles, from minimalism to contemporary. Discover why this design icon remains an essential choice to elevate your space with a modern and sophisticated touch.

A Refined and Elegant Minimalist Aesthetic

Minimalism, a core principle of Bauhaus design, emphasizes simple forms and streamlined materials, where every detail has purpose, and nothing is excessive. Bauhaus lamps, with their refined and understated aesthetic, embody these principles, blending functionality and elegance seamlessly.


Designed to fit a wide range of interiors, these lamps offer soft, subtle lighting that creates a calming atmosphere. Whether for a modern living room, a minimalist office, or a Scandinavian bedroom, they stand out by enhancing spaces without overwhelming them.


With timeless materials like metal, glass, or chrome, these minimalist lights transcend mere functionality. They become true utilitarian works of art, enduring across generations.

Why Do Bauhaus Lamps Embody Minimalism?

  • Simple lines: Removes embellishments to focus on the essentials.
  • Timeless materials: Glass, metal, and chrome for a modern aesthetic.
  • Adaptability: Perfect for styles ranging from Scandinavian to contemporary.
  • Harmonious lighting: Soft light that enhances any space.

A Lamp Suitable for All Styles: From Modern to Classic

Bauhaus lamps are renowned for their exceptional versatility, seamlessly fitting into a wide range of interior styles. Their clean design, rooted in simple geometric forms, allows them to enhance both contemporary spaces and more traditional settings.


  • In a modern interior: Bauhaus lamps enhance the minimalist character of a space with their clear lines and materials like glass or chrome. They pair seamlessly with sleek furniture and neutral color palettes.

  • In a classic interior: Their understated elegance creates a subtle and harmonious contrast with more decorative or traditional elements, such as moldings or solid wood furniture.

This unique blend of simplicity and refinement makes Bauhaus lamps an essential choice for anyone looking to illuminate their home while maintaining the overall aesthetic of the space.

Modern Palette

Neutral and soothing tones: grey, beige, white.

Classic Palette

Rich and warm colors: forest green, burgundy, light brown.

The Quality of Materials and Finishes

Bauhaus lamps stand out for their exceptional attention to materials and finishes. Each element is selected for its durability, aesthetics, and connection to Bauhaus design principles.


  • Timeless materials: Chrome metal, opaline glass, and steel are signature elements of Bauhaus lamps. Their durability ensures exceptional longevity while maintaining a modern and elegant appearance.

  • Impeccable finishes: Whether it's smooth, polished, or brushed surfaces, every detail is crafted with precision to deliver a sophisticated result. These finishes add a luxurious touch while respecting the simplicity of Bauhaus design.

  • A lasting choice: Bauhaus lamps are not just decorative objects; they are also designed to stand the test of time. This quality makes them timeless pieces that remain elegant and functional for years.

III. The different types of Bauhaus lamps

Bauhaus design, with its versatility and timelessness, is available in a variety of lighting options to suit all needs. Whether for an office, living room, or bedroom, Bauhaus lamps provide an elegant and functional solution for every space.


  1. Table lamps: Perfect for an office or side table, they combine practicality and aesthetics. The famous Wagenfeld lamp, with its opaline glass shade and metal structure, is a perfect example.

  2. Floor lamps: These models provide soft, ambient light, perfect for a reading nook or living room. Their slender design and minimalist materials make them statement pieces in any decor.

  3. Pendant lights: These central light fixtures, often made of metal or glass, provide elegant geometric lighting, perfect for a minimalist or industrial space.

  4. Wall sconces: Compact and practical, they optimize small spaces while adding a touch of sophistication.

Each type of Bauhaus lamp stands out for its iconic design and its ability to seamlessly integrate into all interior styles.

The different types of Bauhaus lamps - Glowe Studio
The different types of Bauhaus lamps - Glowe Studio
Type of lamp Ideal use Features
able lamps Office, side table Compact, elegant, soft directional light
Floor lamps Living room, reading nook Slender design, ambient light
Pendant lights Dining room, living room Central light fixtures, often made of glass or metal
Wall sconces Hallways, bedroom Compact, space-saving

Bauhaus table lamps: elegance and functionality on a desk or nightstand

Bauhaus table lamps are iconic pieces that perfectly combine aesthetics and practicality. Their minimalist design, based on simple geometric shapes like the circle and cylinder, allows them to seamlessly fit into both a functional desk and an elegant nightstand.


  • A soft, directional light: These lamps provide perfect lighting for work or reading while creating a calming atmosphere with their diffuse light.
  • High-quality materials: Made from opaline glass, chrome-plated metal, or brushed steel, they stand the test of time while maintaining their timeless charm.
  • A timeless style: Whether you favor minimalism or classic design, Bauhaus table lamps add a touch of subtle sophistication to your space.

The famous Wagenfeld lamp, for example, is a symbol of Bauhaus design, with its spherical shade and cylindrical base. A true functional work of art that transcends time without losing its modernity.

Bauhaus Sphere table lamp - Glowe Studio
Bauhaus Sphere table lamp - Glowe Studio

Bauhaus floor lamps: perfect for ambient lighting in a living room

Bauhaus floor lamps embody the discreet elegance and functionality sought for successful ambient lighting. With their sleek design and slender lines, they integrate seamlessly into any living room, whether minimalist or contemporary.


  • A soft and soothing light: Thanks to their frosted glass shades or diffused structures, these floor lamps provide warm lighting, perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere or a reading nook.

  • Durable materials: Made from chrome-plated metal, steel, or glass, Bauhaus floor lamps stand the test of time while adding a touch of refinement.

  • A versatile design: Their timeless aesthetic makes them compatible with various interior styles, whether it's a sleek, industrial, or Scandinavian living room.

Choosing a Bauhaus floor lamp is adding a statement piece to your decor, one that can subtly and modernly transform your space.

Bauhaus Orbit Floor Lamp - Glowe Studio
Bauhaus Orbit Floor Lamp - Glowe Studio

Bauhaus pendant lights: a central lighting fixture with a unique design

Bauhaus pendant lights are true functional works of art, perfect for serving as the main lighting fixture in a space. Their design, focused on simple geometric shapes and noble materials, allows them to stand out while seamlessly integrating into a variety of decor styles.


  • An elegant focal point: Placed in the center of a room, Bauhaus pendant lights draw attention with their clean lines and sophisticated design. They become decorative elements in their own right.

  • Material versatility: Whether made of opaline glass, chrome-plated metal, or brushed steel, these pendant lights add a touch of modernity while ensuring diffuse and harmonious lighting.

  • For all spaces: Perfect for illuminating a dining room, living room, or even an office, they create a warm and refined atmosphere while meeting the practical needs of each room.

A Bauhaus pendant light ensures effective and aesthetic central lighting, capable of transforming any interior by giving it a unique and timeless character.

Bauhaus wall sconces: optimizing space with style

Bauhaus wall sconces are the perfect solution to combine style and practicality, while maximizing the use of your space. Inspired by the principles of the Bauhaus movement, they integrate elegantly into modern, industrial, or minimalist interiors, providing subtle and effective lighting.


  • A sleek and functional design: Bauhaus wall sconces stand out with their simple geometric shapes and refined finishes, often in chrome-plated metal or opaline glass. They add a touch of subtle sophistication to your walls while remaining practical.
  • Targeted lighting: Ideal for small spaces or highlighting decorative elements, their diffuse or directional light creates a warm and welcoming ambiance.
  • Versatile use: Whether in a hallway, bedroom, or even a bathroom, Bauhaus wall sconces optimize every corner while adding a timeless design touch.

These light fixtures are not just functional accessories, but true wall art, capable of transforming any space into an aesthetic and luminous composition.

IV. How to integrate a Bauhaus lamp into your interior?

Integrating a Bauhaus lamp into your decor is more than just adding a simple light fixture. It's infusing your space with the timeless elegance of an iconic design while optimizing its lighting ambiance. With its sleek and geometric style, this type of lighting adapts to a variety of styles and materials, whether modern or more traditional.


Whether you choose to pair it with contemporary furniture, play with natural materials like wood, or create contrast in a classic interior, a Bauhaus lamp has the unique ability to elevate the entire room while maintaining its balance.


In the following sections, discover how to enhance your decor with a Bauhaus lamp, playing with style, texture, and contrast combinations.

Decor style Integration ideas with a Bauhaus lamp
Contemporary Pair the lamp with furniture featuring clean lines, neutral tones, and modern materials like metal or glass.
Industrial Combine it with raw materials such as black metal, exposed concrete, or brick walls for a loft-style effect.
Classic Create contrast with carved wooden furniture, rich textiles like velvet, and rugs with elegant patterns.
Scandinavian Harmonize the lamp with natural materials like light wood, pastel tones, and fabrics like linen or cotton.

Pairing the Bauhaus lamp with contemporary furniture

The Bauhaus lamp naturally fits into a contemporary interior thanks to its timeless design. With its clean geometric shapes, it complements the modern lines of minimalist furniture and provides a soothing visual harmony. Placed in a living room or bedroom, it pairs perfectly with rectangular coffee tables, modular sofas, or lightweight shelves.


The materials of the lamp, such as glass and metal, elegantly complement the smooth, modern surfaces of contemporary furniture. Together, they create a subtle aesthetic continuity, where each detail emphasizes the simplicity and functionality of the design. To enhance this harmony, a neutral color palette – white, beige, or gray – highlights the Bauhaus lamp as the centerpiece of your decor.

By pairing a Bauhaus lamp with modern furniture, you create a balanced interior where subtle elegance and modernity coexist in perfect harmony.

Why a Bauhaus lamp in a contemporary interior?

Geometric design

The simple, symmetrical lines integrate perfectly with minimalist furniture.

Noble materials

Glass and metal elegantly combine with modern surfaces for a visual continuity.

Neutral palette

White, beige, or gray to highlight the Bauhaus lamp as the centerpiece.

Harmonize with materials such as wood, glass, or metal

Bauhaus lamps elegantly adapt to a variety of materials such as wood, glass, or metal, offering great versatility to create harmonious atmospheres.


With wood, they gain warmth and soften their geometric lines, making them ideal for a minimalist interior. Glass, on the other hand, reflects light and adds a touch of sophistication, extending their luminous and refined appearance. Finally, metal, particularly chrome or black steel, enhances their industrial or contemporary look while staying true to the Bauhaus spirit.

By playing with these combinations, the Bauhaus lamp becomes a statement piece, enhancing the textures and contrasts of your decor.

🌳 Bois

Wood softens the strict lines of the Bauhaus lamp and adds natural warmth. Ideal for a calming space

💎 Glass

Glass extends the light and adds a refined touch. An ideal combination for bright and elegant spaces.

🔩 Metal

Metal enhances the contemporary and industrial look of the Bauhaus lamp, perfect for a modern and bold decor.

Create contrasts in a more classic interior

In a classic interior, the Bauhaus lamp becomes an asset for playing with contrasts and subtly modernizing the space. Its sleek, geometric design stands out against traditional elements such as moldings, carved wooden furniture, or rich textiles like velvet.


By placing a Bauhaus lamp in a classic room, you create a balance between heritage and modernity. For example, a minimalist pendant light can illuminate an ornate table, while a chrome table lamp fits perfectly on an antique sideboard. This blend of styles highlights the details of each element, while infusing a contemporary touch to the whole.


To enhance this effect, play with colors and materials. Pair the neutral and metallic tones of the lamp with deep hues like forest green or burgundy to enrich the composition. This elegant contrast adds character and sophistication to your interior.


By daring to mix styles, the Bauhaus lamp reveals its full decorative potential, transforming a classic space into a unique and refined place.

✨ Bauhaus Pendant Light

Place it above an elegant table to add a subtle touch of modernity to a classic decor.

✨ Chrome Table Lamp

Add a Bauhaus lamp on an antique sideboard for a harmonious contrast between classic and contemporary.

✨ Play of Colors

Combine metallic tones with deep hues like forest green or burgundy to elevate your space.

Conclusion

Bauhaus lamps, with their timeless design and functional elegance, continue to stand out as essential pieces in interior decor. Whether it's to illuminate a contemporary space, play with contrasts in a classic room, or enhance materials like wood, glass, or metal, they bring a unique touch of authenticity and modernity.


By integrating a Bauhaus lamp into your space, you are choosing a light fixture that transcends time and embodies the perfect balance between aesthetics and practicality. These iconic creations, true tributes to a revolutionary artistic movement, transform your interior into an elegant and timeless space.


Let yourself be inspired and explore our collection to illuminate your rooms with style and sophistication.

Autrice de blog pour Glowe Studio - Luminaires design et tendances

Lise Tanaka

Lise Tanaka is a writer specializing in interior design and lighting. With a passion for minimalist trends and natural materials, she creates inspiring articles for those looking to enhance their living spaces. Through her writing, Lise shares tips, advice, and inspiration for incorporating authentic and timeless elements.