Everyone Owned Them In The '60s — The Lamp Style We Want To Make A Comeback

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These days, many homeowners opt for simple, minimalist home decor. However, there was once a time when people fully embraced unconventional, statement-making pieces. The quirky, experimental lamp designs of the 1960s are a great example. Designers of the era got very creative with plastic molding, a recently introduced technology that they used to create a variety of sculptural lamps in bold colors. These included light fixtures that resembled food, common household objects, spaceships, and even weird crystallized flower arrangements. If you've ever wondered whether something would look good as a lamp, someone in the '60s probably made it.

The unique lamp designs of the Swinging Sixties were not as random as they may seem. They were a reflection of their era. Historical events such as the Space Race, the Civil Rights Movement, and the Vietnam War protests had a lasting impact on interior design. Americans were increasingly rejecting tradition and embracing homewares that pushed boundaries. This led to fixtures and fittings, including lamps, featuring bold colors and bulbous shapes that hadn't been seen before. Given the rich history and bold visual appeal of 1960s lamps, it's no wonder that keeping vintage home decor alive is trending in 2026. They're sure to add charm and character to any living space they end up in.

Despite their popularity in the 1960s, these quirky lamps eventually faded out of style. Almost seven decades later, today's homeowners are revisiting past design eras and enthusiastically incorporating vintage objects into their interiors. After all, nostalgia is a major force in design today. An authentically groovy lamp could be just the right addition to a maximalist or boho aesthetic. Placing these once-popular lamps in a plain living room or bedroom will liven up the space with minimal effort.

If you have a tight decorating budget, you should always buy these valuable vintage lamps if you see them at thrift stores. Lucky Instagrammer thriftingtreasurepage found a 1960s teak and glass globe lamp for $3 while thrifting, so good finds are out there if you're willing to hunt for them. If, however, you're after a lamp by a particular designer or want a specific style or brand, you'll probably have more success with vintage stores and specialist online resellers.

Looking for a space-age lamp to complement your chrome-filled kitchen? You'll love this 1960s Philips Nederland Infraphil 7529 infrared heat lamp designed by French architect Charlotte Perriand for sale on Etsy. Another '60s lighting trend that's making a comeback for its individuality is the mushroom lamp. Pick up this '60s Italian-made red metal and white plastic fixture for $550 on Chairish and place it on a round coffee table that echoes the shade's smooth curves.