- Published on
The Evolution of an Icon: FLOS Bellhop Glass by Barber & Osgerby
- Authors
- Name
- Ang Yi Shuan
Table of Contents
Designed by Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby, the FLOS Bellhop began its journey as a compact, colourful, and highly successful portable lamp created for the London Design Museum restaurant. Over the years, this friendly, mushroom-shaped silhouette has evolved into a comprehensive lighting ecosystem.
The latest chapter in this story marks a significant shift in materiality and scale: the introduction of the Bellhop Glass.
From Polycarbonate to Triplex Glass
The original Bellhop was conceived to bounce light off its own sleek, polycarbonate surface. The new Bellhop Glass models represent a maturation of the design, replacing plastic with high-quality glass and metal.
In close collaboration with the FLOS R&D department, a custom triplex opaline glass diffuser was developed. The artisanal process involves simultaneously mouth-blowing three layers of glass—clear, white, and clear again—each with varying thicknesses. After forming, the diffuser undergoes a meticulous 24-hour cooling process in a kiln starting at 800 degrees.
This rigorous craftsmanship ensures that the entire fixture emits a soft, perfectly uniform glow, rather than merely reflecting light.
Dual Light Emission
The Bellhop Glass Suspension model is unique in its dual functionality. It operates simultaneously as a source of ambient illumination and highly functional task lighting.
A carefully engineered bottom aperture prevents glare entirely, ensuring visual comfort for anyone seated beneath it, while still delivering a focused, non-blinding pool of light directly onto the surface below.
A Model to Suit Any Space
The expanded Bellhop Glass family offers versatile solutions for a wide range of interiors and exteriors. With the introduction of the glass table, ceiling, and suspension models—and earlier additions like the outdoor bollard, wall uplighter, and pole-top—the collection allows architects and homeowners to carry a unified, elegant design language throughout an entire project.
The table model combines the new triplex glass with a sturdy aluminum base, available in sophisticated finishes including Bright Aluminium, Cioko, and White, grounding the ethereal glow of the glass with a touch of industrial permanence.
Specify Bellhop in Singapore
ILLUM-TEC PTE LTD is the official project partner for FLOS in Singapore. We assist architects, interior designers, and homeowners in integrating the entire Bellhop family—from the classic portable table lamps to the new Glass variants and robust outdoor bollards—into high-end residential and commercial spaces.
Contact us today to explore how the Bellhop collection can bring a touch of modern British design and Italian craftsmanship to your next project.