Poul Henningsen, often referred to simply as PH, was a Danish designer and thinker whose influence shaped not only modern lighting design but also the cultural landscape of 20th-century Denmark. Born in Ordrup, Denmark, in 1894, he was the son of the famous feminist writer Agnes Henningsen. Growing up in a progressive, intellectually vibrant household deeply influenced his lifelong commitment to social critique and creative freedom.

Trained briefly as an architect at the Technical School in Copenhagen, Henningsen’s interests soon extended beyond architecture into design, writing, and social commentary. His most enduring contribution came through his pioneering work in lighting design, driven by a desire to create lamps that produced soft, glare-free light — a response to the harsh electric lighting of his time.

In 1924, Henningsen began a lifelong collaboration with the Danish lighting company Louis Poulsen. This partnership gave rise to his iconic PH lamp series, including the legendary PH5 (1958) and PH Artichoke (1958). These designs, based on a revolutionary multi-shade system, diffused light evenly and beautifully — blending science, craftsmanship, and poetry. They became international symbols of Danish modernism and remain design classics to this day.

Beyond lighting, Henningsen was a writer, satirist, and cultural critic, known for his sharp wit and fearless defense of artistic and personal freedom. He contributed essays, songs, and architectural criticism to Danish publications, often challenging conservative values and advocating for progressive social reform. During World War II, he fled to Sweden to escape Nazi occupation, where he continued to write and speak out for democratic ideals.

Throughout his life, Henningsen’s work reflected a profound belief that design should serve human needs, not merely aesthetic trends. His lamps were not just objects — they were embodiments of his philosophy: that light could shape mood, behavior, and understanding.

Poul Henningsen died in 1967, but his influence endures. His designs for Louis Poulsen remain in production, his essays continue to inspire debate, and his humanist approach to design has cemented him as one of the founding figures of modern Danish design.