The Lava Lamp, a timeless design icon, has been a staple in British interiors since its creation in 1963. From teenage bedrooms to psychedelic living rooms, its fluid, hypnotic motion has captivated audiences for decades. In honor of its 60th anniversary, Mathmos, the company behind the beloved lamp, is embarking on an exciting new chapter by collaborating with leading creatives from the fashion and design world. These collaborations will result in limited edition versions of the Astro lamp, the very first iteration of the Lava Lamp, and will be available for purchase starting October of this year.
Mathmos has partnered with a range of renowned artists, including Camille Walala, Sabine Marcelis, Studio Job, and Rankin, with more creatives yet to be announced. These special edition lamps will feature unique designs, adding a fresh, artistic twist to the classic Astro lamp, further cementing the Lava Lamp’s place in contemporary design.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, Mathmos has also unveiled a new showroom located at its factory in Poole, Dorset. This showroom offers a comprehensive look at the full range of Lava Lamps, displaying all models and colorways. Visitors can enjoy a personalized experience with the option to have their lamps etched with custom designs and gain exclusive access to the limited edition anniversary lamps. The showroom, designed by London-based Counterfeit Studio, honors the long-standing connection between the Lava Lamp’s production and its physical space, providing not only a space to showcase the lamps but also an immersive experience to learn about the rich history of this iconic design.
The Lava Lamp was first conceived by British inventor and entrepreneur Edward Craven, known for his eccentric yet visionary approach to design. The lamp’s distinctive appearance, with its bulbous liquid and rocket-like glass bottles, quickly captured the imagination of consumers worldwide. Since its launch, the Lava Lamp has sold millions of units and remains a symbol of mid-century modern design. Each lamp is still produced in the UK at the Poole factory, where Mathmos continues to use a specially developed formula to ensure “clearer, brighter colors” for its lamps.
Mathmos has long been dedicated to the longevity of its product, offering replacement bottles and bulbs for lamps dating back to the 1960s. This commitment to sustainability and quality is a testament to Craven’s original vision. Even after his passing in 2000, Craven’s legacy lives on through the company’s unwavering focus on safety, testing, and maintaining the highest standards for Lava Lamp production. Since 1989, Mathmos has been led by entrepreneur Cressida Granger, who has continued to elevate the brand while staying true to its roots.
The 60th anniversary of the Lava Lamp is not just a celebration of its enduring popularity, but a moment to reflect on the innovation, craftsmanship, and artistic collaborations that have kept the lamp relevant in both the design and cultural zeitgeist. With the anniversary collaborations and the opening of the new showroom, Mathmos is ensuring that the Lava Lamp will continue to inspire and illuminate for generations to come.
