Design by Decade 1940's

The 1940s were a tumultuous time for many. Contradictions between Traditionalism and Modernism that took root in the ‘30s found full expression in the war-torn years in the first half of this decade. Families longing for some semblance of normalcy favored traditional home décor, but a spillover of the Streamline-Deco-Jazz Age still pervaded. Modernist design movements were largely put on hold but began to regain traction once the war came to an end in 1945, and post-war America saw the rapid evolution of the Mid-Century Modern design movement. An emphasis on simplicity, function and personality was hugely influential in architecture and industrial design in the latter half of the decade. Here are some of our favorite representations of 1940’s design in lighting.

Grashoppa Floor Lamp (1947)
by Gubi

Designed by Greta Grossman, a pioneer in Scandinavian design, the Grashoppa combines the playful attitude of Jazz Moderne with Modernism. The theme of nature was heavily emphasized in the 1940s, and the Grashoppa’s organic form resembles that. Its stance allows us the impression that the lamp could spring into action at any moment. This floor lamp’s clean, sophisticated design and soft color variations mimic the sentimentality the 1940s emulated. The Grashoppa is artful yet functional. The elongated aluminum conical shade is jointed to the arm, which allows the lamp to produce directional light without creating glare. The floor lamp commands the space it occupies, lending the space its own unique personality. The Grashoppa lamp clearly speaks to the mixed feelings of the 40s, the sense of austerity married with fun, striking design.

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Duncan Downrod Pendant
by Golden Lighting

The Duncan Downrod Pendant features a simple, classic silhouette with a swivel hinge which connects the canopy to the downrod. Hang as a statement piece or in a grouping to create your own look over an island or work station.

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