The iconic Arco floor lamp was designed by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni in 1962. In a time of social transformation that saw a shift towards fluid and adaptable living spaces, Arco was the perfect solution.
By eliminating the need for ceiling lighting, it allowed for a freestanding solution that could illuminate any space without the constraints of fixed electrical points or the need to drill holes.
Photography Courtesy of Fondazione Achille Castiglioni, Studio Casali, Piero Fasanotto, Ramak Fazel, Gionata Xerra
True to form, the idea for Arco was inspired by the everyday street light. Known for turning ordinary objects into iconic designs, Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni observed how street lights illuminated a wide area from a fixed point on the ground.
This concept was translated into a domestic setting with Arco’s long, elegant arch extending light over a table or seating area, challenging conventional thinking about how lighting should be positioned and used in the home.
In keeping with the Castiglioni design philosophy, the Arco lamp is a masterclass in functional elegance. Every part of the lamp serves a purpose, from its marble base, which anchors the structure, to the stainless-steel arch for customisable light placement. The diffusor is perforated to dissipate heat and even the hole in the marble base is deliberately designed so two people can easily lift the lamp with a broom handle.
Today, Arco is a part of design history. A truly innovative lamp that is recognised the world over and has inspired countless imitations. In 2011, it was awarded copyright protection in recognition of its iconic design. In 2012, an LED version was released to mark its 50th anniversary, which also coincided with 50 years of Flos.
