Will Anything Dim the Mushroom Lamp’s Shine?

Yes—decades after their inception—mushroom lamps are still immensely popular in 2025. Their distinctive, organic shapes and soft, ambient lighting have granted them long-term access to both contemporary and 70s-inspired interiors across the globe. Conceived by designers like Gae Aulenti and Verner Panton fifty years ago, mushroom lamps experienced a resurgence during the pandemic as people sought comforting, nostalgic decor. Let’s look back on iconic mushroom lamps throughout history—plus a few designed within the last few years.

Iconic Mushroom Lamps: A Timeless Design Trend

Mushroom lamps have captivated design enthusiasts for decades as iconic symbols of mid-century modern and contemporary aesthetics. Their distinctive, organic shapes and soft, ambient lighting have made them enduring favorites in interior design, effortlessly blending retro charm with modern sophistication.

Gae Aulenti’s Pipistrello Lamp (1965)

Designed by the renowned Italian architect Gae Aulenti, the Pipistrello Lamp is a hallmark of Italian design. Its name, which means “bat” in Italian, references its bat-like, winged shade. This lamp is notable for its adjustable height, making it both functional and versatile.

The unique combination of stainless steel and opal methacrylate creates a sleek, futuristic look that remains a staple in sophisticated interiors worldwide. The Pipistrello Lamp embodies the elegance and innovation of 1960s Italian design, making it a coveted piece for collectors and design aficionados alike.

Verner Panton’s Panthella Lamp (1971)

Danish designer Verner Panton created the Panthella Lamp, a celebrated example of futuristic design. Its smooth, rounded silhouette and even light distribution reflect Panton’s signature playful yet functional style.

The lamp’s dome-shaped shade and trumpet-like base are both made from acrylic, enhancing its sleek, modern aesthetic. The Panthella Lamp not only provides ambient lighting but also serves as a striking sculptural element in any room. Its timeless design has ensured its place in homes and galleries around the world.

Fungo Lamps (1970s)

Fungo Lamps are hand-blown Murano glass mushroom lamps that gained popularity in the 1970s. Crafted by skilled artisans in Italy, these lamps are celebrated for their vibrant colors, unique patterns, and exquisite glasswork.

Each Fungo Lamp is a one-of-a-kind piece, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of Murano glassmakers. Their playful shapes and bold designs add a touch of retro flair to contemporary interiors, making them highly sought-after vintage collectibles.

Atollo Lamp by Vico Magistretti (1977)

The Atollo Lamp, designed by Italian architect Vico Magistretti, is one of the most recognizable mushroom lamps in design history. Its geometric form, featuring a cylindrical base, conical stem, and hemispherical shade, creates a minimalist yet striking silhouette.

The lamp is crafted from metal with a lacquered finish, giving it a sleek, modern appearance. The Atollo Lamp won the prestigious Compasso d’Oro award in 1979 and is part of the permanent collections of major museums, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Crate & Barrel’s Formosa Stone Table Lamp

The Formosa Stone Table Lamp from Crate & Barrel feels like a little piece of art for your home. Its dome-shaped, brass-colored shade hovers slightly off-center over a round, marble base, creating a playful, modern look.

The base has beautiful swirls of gray, white, and black, so no two lamps are exactly the same—each one has its own unique character. The mix of cool, smooth marble with the warm, metallic sheen of the shade gives it a balanced, eye-catching feel. It’s not just pretty to look at; it provides a soft, cozy glow that adds charm to any space.

Other Contemporary Mushroom Lamps

In recent years, mushroom lamps have experienced a resurgence, with contemporary designers reimagining this classic silhouette. Brands like HAY, &Tradition, Studio Anansi, and GUBI have introduced modern interpretations that blend traditional forms with new materials and technologies. These updated designs reflect the enduring appeal of mushroom lamps, proving that their charm transcends decades and design trends.

Final Thoughts

Mushroom lamps are more than just lighting fixtures; they are iconic pieces that tell the story of design evolution. From the elegance of the Pipistrello Lamp to the playful vibrancy of Fungo Lamps, these timeless designs continue to inspire and illuminate interiors around the world. Whether you’re a collector, a design enthusiast, or simply someone looking to add a touch of charm to your home, mushroom lamps offer a perfect blend of form and function.

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