Author: modculture

We feature plenty of design classics, but not too many modern light fittings with a classic look. Why? Well, there aren’t a great deal of well-made original lights with character out there. Unless you check out Original BTC.

This London-based company is owned and run by Peter Bowles (not the vintage actor I hasten to add) who also designs all the lights on offer. In general, the designs (which range from the fashionable to the functional) are a modern take on a classic look, with an attention to detail and price tags that aren’t out of general reach.

The metallic Paxo pendant above is typical, styled on the industrial lights of the early 20th century and available in a choice of plain or colourful finishes. Complete with cord and fitting it retails for £103. Check out the website for the full range.

Find out more at the Original BTC website

Another Alvar Aalto design has just been reissued, this time the 403 Hallway Chair.

Dating all the way back to 1931, this stackable chair was originally designed for the Paimio Sanatorium in Finland, offering a stylish moulded birch plywood construction with a colourful lacquered (or painted) finish.

Take your pick from white, black, orange, yellow and green, with prices starting at £298.

Find out more at the TwentyTwentyOne website

We love the designs of Alvar Aalto, even his more leftfield work – like the Bilberry suspension light.

Dating back to the late 1950s, Aalto designed these fittings for Maison Carre in France – but thankfully for us, the lights have now been reissued by Artek. A simple but effective design, they are (as the name suggests) shaped like berries, with the light shining through the white painted steel pendant via an angled circular gap.

One looks great, a bunch even better – you can pick up a Bilberry for £172.

Find out more at the TwentyTwentyOne website

Designer-style fittings don’t have to come with matching designer prices – as the Homebase Preston range of lights shows.

Based quite obviously on the classic Sputnik light fittings, the Presto series offers up a table light, floor light and ceiling light fitting, all mixing a shiny chrome finish and balls with arms housing mirrored golf ball-style bulbs.

An affordable way to add a mid-century vibe to your home, with prices starting at just £47.99.

Find out more at the Homebase website