Heal's
Heal's Akari 9A Floor Lamp
£740 £629
Price History
Description
In 1951 the Japanese-American artist Isamu Noguchi began to design the Akari Light Sculptures, a group of works handcrafted out of washi paper that eventually comprised over 100 luminaires – table, floor and ceiling lamps. He chose the name 'Akari‘ for these objects, a word that means 'light‘ in Japanese, connoting both illumination and physical lightness. Each luminaire is meticulously crafted by hand in the Ozeki workshop, a traditional family-run company based in Gifu, Japan. The Akari Light Sculptures are marked with a stylised sun-and-moon logo, which also resembles the corresponding Japanese characters. 'The harshness of electricity is thus transformed through the magic of paper back to the light of our origin – the sun – so that its warmth may continue to fill our rooms at night. ‘ - Isamu Noguchi.
Our Stylist Says
I love this lamp because it brings a contemporary yet warm touch to various interiors. Its streamlined design and soft glowing shade make it a versatile piece that works particularly well in modern, minimalist, or Scandinavian-style spaces. For styling, consider placing it beside a cosy armchair or in a reading nook to create a welcoming atmosphere. Practical tips include pairing it with neutral-toned furniture to let its design stand out, or layering it with other light sources for a balanced ambient glow. Its understated elegance also means it can easily complement eclectic or vintage interiors, adding a touch of modern sophistication without overpowering the space.
Adrian Wells
Flitch Interior Stylist
Dimensions
Dimensions can be found on Heal's's website here
About Heal's
A Rich Legacy in Furniture Design
Heal's is a well-known British furniture store with a history that spans over 200 years. It began in 1810 when John Harris Heal and his son started a business for feather products but soon moved into furniture.
By the 1900s, almost everyone in London knew Heal's for its great furniture. Interestingly, they were also among the first to sell electric lights in Britain. During World War II, their main store even helped by making parachutes for soldiers.
Influences and Design Philosophy
A significant part of Heal's story is Sir Ambrose Heal, who worked there for 60 years, from 1893 to 1953. He had a unique idea combine the beautiful designs from the Arts and Crafts Movement with affordable manufacturing.
This meant more people could buy well-designed furniture without breaking the bank. If you visit the Heal's store on Tottenham Court Road in London, you'll see a cool spiral staircase and a statue of a bronze cat, both of which show off the company's unique style.
Modern Expansion and Growth
While Heal's has a long history, they're always looking forward. In 2001, a company named Wittington Investments bought Heal's, helping it to grow and open stores in many cities, including Manchester and Leeds.
They've also started selling products online, aiming to be a modern e-commerce store with physical showrooms. Their main Tottenham Court Road store celebrated 200 years in 2018. Recently, they revamped it, making it even better for shoppers.
