George Nelson

The Creation of Nelson® Bubble Lamps® by Herman Miller®

George Nelson was already an accomplished architect and professor when he developed the first Bubble Lamp in 1947. Nelson came across a Swedish spherical lamp that captured the design values of the era, but it was far too expensive. Instead of being dismayed, Nelson set out to design his own lamp which would encapsulate contemporary design and be made from high-quality materials, all at a reasonable price point. That’s when the legendary George Nelson Bubble Lamps were born.

George Nelson's Bubble Lamps saw their initial introduction to the public with Herman Miller in 1952 and received wonderful applause for their design and unique characteristics. Inspired by silk lanterns and Swedish design, the Nelson Bubble Lamp was so beautiful that it landed in the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, where it stays to this day.

The Aesthetics of George Nelson's Lighting

The features of George Nelson Lighting creations combine utility and aesthetic beauty all in one. Delicate lamp shades feature unique forms. From Pear and Bell shapes to the Cigar and Saucer collections, the designs exude a similar theme yet have a distinct style all their own.

Each light fixture is made with a soft plastic shade, which reduces glare, gracefully spun around a steel wire frame. Clean and stylish lines are what the George Nelson Lighting Bubble Lamps are known for, perfect for any room, from comfortable bedrooms to inviting dining areas.

Made to last for decades to come, Nelson® Bubble Lamps® by Herman Miller® are still made to this day from the original specifications from the 1940s and 50s and are so popular that it has a permanent visual home in the Museum of Modern Art.

Favorites from George Nelson's Lighting

George Nelson's lighting offers many different collections featuring unique shapes that come in a wide array of options from pendants and chandeliers to floor lamps and table lamps.

One of the most popular collections is the George Nelson Cigar Collection. The George Nelson Cigar Collection features elegant lantern-like fixtures with clean and crisp lines including a wall sconce, floor lamp, and table lamp. The Nelson Cigar Bubble Pendant is a particular favorite since it’s minimal sculptural outline hangs elegantly from above.

The George Nelson Saucer Collection features unique stylings for those who are aficionados of the George Nelson Lighting line. The George Nelson Saucer Collection features oblong, delicate shapes which are eye-catching and produce a calming atmosphere at the same time. The unique shapes of the George Nelson Saucer lights provide just enough light for the room but are not overly bright. Capturing influences from the Space Age, the George Nelson Saucer Bubble Lamp draws inspiration mid-century depictions of UFOs to create a pendant that is sure to add a spark of personality to any space.