Margareta Köhler floor lamp

Item number: 136404Category: Lighting
Information

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.

Product Details
Dimensions (cm)
H: 120 / : 64
Max height: H: 165
ProducerFuturum
ColorWhite
Decade1930s
CountrySweden
StyleFunctionalism, Scandinavian Modern
MaterialLacquer, Metal, Nickel plated metal
Designed in1938
Item Number136404
Download tear sheet
Designer

Margareta Köhler

Disclaimer
All our fixtures are original items and are sold as vintage items, which means that signs of age and use such as patina, scratches or minor variations in finish may occur. These characteristics are a natural part of the object’s history and value.
All lamps are visually inspected and carefully documented with photos in both studio and illuminated conditions. Electrical components are original unless otherwise stated. We always recommend that a qualified electrician review or update the electrical installation in accordance with applicable electrical safety standards in your country.
Color tones and materials may vary slightly depending on the screen or lighting when photographing. Dimensions are approximate.
If you have any questions or requests for more information, you are always welcome to contact us before purchasing.