Scandinavian lighting

The timeless look of the Secto Design lamps is suitable both for home and public interiors in different styles. The iconic Scandinavian wooden lamps are appreciated around the world and shipped to over 80 countries.

Main image: Restaurant, Serlachius Museum Gösta. Mänttä, Finland. Photo by Laura Vesa.

The Petite table lamp, a plant, a wooden panel, a glass ball decoration and a bottle with coins inside on top of a chest.

Main design principles

The minimalistic yet elegant signature appearance of Secto Design lamps is based on Scandinavian design tradition, also called Scandinavian Modern. The main principles of Scandinavian design are functionality, clean forms, long lasting quality, skilful use of nature materials and deliberated details - that is exactly the same elements which also Secto Design lamps are appreciated for!

Scandinavian design is characterized by uncluttered aesthetics and the focus is on the function. The use of neutral, muted colors bring airiness and calm whereas natural materials add cosiness and warmth into Nordic interiors. In the sunnier seasons large windows let the natural light in and during the dark wintertime practical lamps are a necessity. The huge difference in the amount of natural light between different seasons has especially impacted the development of the world famous Scandinavian lighting design.

A close-up of the white Owalo pendant lamp. There is an image of the ocean and a white brick wall in the background.

History of design

The roots of Scandinavian lighting design reach back to the late 19th century. Back then architectural movements like Jugendstil and Art Nouveau used natural forms and materials. In turn, Modernism simplified design and cleaned out all unnecessary decorations and ornaments at the beginning of the 20th century.

In Nordic countries national characteristics had a great effect on local design. Respect for practicality, focus on the essentials and strong handcrafting skills were intertwined with vibes of Jugendstil and Modernism. Nordic designers found their own path. Scandinavian design tradition, as we know it, was born in the fifties and immediately flourished. 

Scandinavian design fascinated people outside the Nordic countries from the very beginning. An exhibition showcasing Scandinavian ”home objects” toured North America in the mid-fifties and in Asia Scandinavian design appealed especially to the Japanese thanks to the familiar minimalism. During the last decades of the 20th century the awareness of how functional, well-designed interiors and domestic objects improve everyday life spread around the world thanks to many renowned designers, architects - and lighting designers.

The Petite pendant lamp, a double bed in front of a wooden wall.

Scandinavian light

Nordic people have a special relationship with light due to the nightless nights in the summer and dark winters. The changing natural light has made Scandinavian lighting designers experts on practical yet beautiful lamps. Many of the world’s most prominent lighting designers come from Scandinavia. 

In Scandinavian homes lamps are not much used between spring and early autumn. The natural light coming through the large windows is often enough for general lighting. During this time of the year lamps become almost merely design objects without a lighting function. This is why the form and the look of the unlit lamps is so important. Lamps have to be beautiful objects on their own, even without light.

In the fall, lamps are switched on more often. In the darkest time in December, when the sun is barely seen above the horizon, the abundance of artificial light might be overwhelming, unless the lamps are skillfully designed. The best Scandinavian lighting fixtures create a cosy light around them. They don’t blind the viewer, just give the right amount of harmonious light where it is needed.

The Octo 4240 pendant lamp, a plant, a mirrow, table and two chairs.

Harmony and modest beauty

So, what exactly is it that makes Secto Design lamps appealing to different design tastes, styles and traditions in over 80 countries worldwide? 

The secret is the harmonious light and modest beauty of the design. Objects carrying the true characteristics of Scandinavian lighting design both stand out from and adapt to the surroundings at same time. Secto Design lamps not only make a statement but also create a soothing atmosphere. The lamps form an attractive circle of warm serenity and in doing so, become the focal point of any interior.

Scandinavian lighting ›

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