How a design classic became peak pandemic homeware

THE RISE OF THE ICONIC MURANO MUSHROOM LIGHT

Sight Unseen @mariaharmuth

Interiors and design have been increasing in popularity in the world of Instagram but who knew that since the global pandemic there would be one clear design winner - the iconic Murano mushroom lamp.

Murano is a Venetian island and is a mix of charming, anient and new, arriving by motorboat on a Spring day is a sight to behold. The beautiful coloured houses of Murano have been the home to the finest and oldest glass industries in the world. The art of blowing glass has been around since the 1st century BC and in Murano since the 13th century but the twisting generous mushroom shaped Murano light first hit popularity in the 1970s. Originals can be bought at 1stDibs, Vinterior or at auction houses such as Christies and Bonhams for around the £1000 mark and spark bidding wars. Collectibles that will not go out of fashion.

Murano

Over the past three months, fashion, lifestyle and interiors influencers and content creators have reignited the original trend using the light to softly warm WFH mirror selfies. It has literally been influenced to the top of every millennials interior wish list – soft light, smooth, rounded with a hint of nostalgia - a soothing aesthetic or as some have called it, a grown up night light suited to cottagecore.

The Pandemic Murano Mushroom is accessible as there are now plenty of options around – different enough to avoid design copyright - at a fraction of the price as design savvy stores such as Urban Outfitters, Ikea, Habitat, Made.com and Globen Lighting doing similar styles for under £50.