Margareta Köhler floor lamp
This very rare floor lamp, designed by Margareta Köhler and produced by Futurum in Sweden in 1938, is a distinguished example of early Scandinavian modernism with a strong functionalist ethos. The lamp’s nickel-plated metal frame features an adjustable height mechanism ranging from 120 to 165 cm (47.2 to 65 inches), allowing for versatile lighting needs. Its base is a simple circular disc, offering stability while maintaining a minimalist profile. The wide, shallow dome-shaped shade measures 64 cm (25.2 inches) in diameter and is crafted to diffuse light evenly, embodying the functionalist principles promoted by the Stockholm Exhibition of 1930.
Margareta Köhler, co-founder of Futurum, was a pioneer in Swedish modernist design. Alongside Marie-Louise Idestam-Blomberg, she established Futurum in 1934 to create interiors and furnishings that balanced modern functionalism with adaptability to client needs. Futurum’s influence extended across furniture, lighting, textiles, and home accessories, though the company ceased operations in 1941 due to financial challenges.
This lamp carries notable historical provenance, having been part of the bespoke interior for Dr. Sten Lapidus and Dr. Hedvig Müller-Lapidus’s residence in 1938 at Baltzar von Platens gata 6, Kungsholmen, Stockholm, which was fully furnished by Futurum. The lamp’s nickel plating shows a warm patina consistent with its age, and the shade bears wear indicative of use, reflecting its authentic vintage character.
Dimensions: Adjustable height 120–165 cm (47.2–65 inches), shade diameter 64 cm (25.2 inches).
Provenance
Dr. Sten Lapidus, Dr. Hedvid Müller-Lapidus. The floor lamp was part of the complete interior from Futurum ordered by Dr Sten Lapidus for his and his wife, Dr Hedvig Müller-Lapidus, first own home on Baltzar von Platens gata 6 on Kungsholmen in Stockholm in 1938.
Literature
Sigrid Eklund Nyström, “Furniture architect in the 1930s – About the interior design company FUTURUM and how a new professional group establishes itself”, Nordiska museet’s documents 112, Uddevalla 1992, see drawing with interior design proposals, Baltzar von Platens gata 6 in Stockholm, pages 284-286.
Dimensions (cm) | H: 120 / ⌀: 64 Max height: H: 165 |
Producer | Futurum |
Color | White |
Decade | 1930s |
Country | Sweden |
Style | Functionalism, Scandinavian Modern |
Material | Lacquer, Metal, Nickel plated metal |
Designed in | 1938 |
Item Number | 136404 |
Margareta Köhler