Scissor lamps and wall lights with swivel arms

Scissor lamps, also known as accordion lamps or multi-joint lamps, are wall lights with an extendable swivel arm. They offer maximum flexibility and have become a popular lighting solution for the living room, bedroom or kitchen, in addition to their original use on the desk. We explain where the scissor lamp came from and how you can give it a modern twist!

Kaiser Idell scissor lamp: the first of its kind

The scissor lamp became famous thanks to Christian Dell, a creative mind who was head of the Bauhaus metal workshop in Weimar between 1922 and 1925. He designed the Kaiser Idell scissor lamp and set new standards in industrial lighting design. This historic lamp, part of the ingenious Kaiser Idell product family, was originally designed as a desk lamp. With the wall luminaire, a lighting solution had finally been found that provided flexible light at the desk without casting shadows and at the same time did not take up any space on the desk surface - made possible by the length-adjustable wall arm with scissor joint: a simple but pioneering idea by Christian Dell.

In terms of appearance, the Kaiser Idell scissor lamp is typical of industrial design: rough and cool. But what was most important in the factories of the 1920s was its good light output and functional advantages:

• The scissor lamp from the most popular design studio in history can be tilted horizontally and vertically, allowing the light to be directed precisely.
• It can also be extended, dramatically increasing its range of applications. In short, the scissor lamp finally made it possible to work effectively.

Accordion lamps: Where do they fit best?

Today, accordion lamps are no longer limited to the workplace. These wall lights with swivel arms are also used in many other areas of the home.

In the bedroom, for example, they can take on the role of bedside lamps. This is particularly practical for those who like to read a bit in bed at night: Depending on the model, the swivel arm can be adjusted horizontally and vertically as required, and the light can be precisely directed, enlarging or minimising the cone of light. Based on the design of the original lampshades, the shade of multi-joint lamps is often made of rustic metal and therefore associated with industrial style, but many contemporary models will suit any style of home. In our online shop you can also find vintage scissor lamps or wooden accordion lamps to match a boho or cottage style.

For the bedroom, we recommend accordion wall lights with a swivel arm and switch, so you can switch the light on and off from the comfort of your bed. Alternatively, many accordion lights can be fitted with smart home-enabled light bulbs and controlled by app or voice, depending on the connected system.

Adjustable wall lights also look great in the living room. They are typically mounted on the wall above the sofa - ideally in a position where you can easily reach them from the sofa to adjust them as needed.

Accordion wall lights and other swing-arm wall lights have been part of the living room lighting trend ever since statement lights that provide both lighting and decoration became fashionable.

Long swing arm wall lights can also be found where many would least expect them: In the kitchen. They are so much more practical for spotlighting above the worktop than recessed spotlights or simple ceiling lights, which can cast annoying shadows on the worktop. They are also a real insider's tip as an alternative to pendant luminaires over a wall-mounted cooking island. Have you ever considered that pendant luminaires are not the only solution for directional lighting over a cooking island? Pendant luminaires are of particular interest if you have a large, not entirely freestanding kitchen unit that houses the hob and hood. In this case, adjustable wall luminaires are one of the few really good ideas for good island lighting, as pendant luminaires are not an option due to lack of space. Accordion lamps bring a modern, rustic charm to the kitchen, suitable for both industrial and country style kitchens.

Multi-joint lamps: Adjustable wall lights

As well as the popular scissor lamps, we also have a range of wall lights with swivel arms that can be adjusted using ball joints and hinges. Compared to accordion lamps, these models are more delicate and less rustic - just the thing if you don't want the wall light to detract from your style. Simple, elegant articulated lamps are often more suited to Scandi interiors and minimalist furnishings.