Originally designed in the late 1930s for the Danish Broadcasting House (Radiohuset) in Copenhagen, the VL45 Radiohus Pendant was created as part of a complete architectural vision by Vilhelm Lauritzen. It is famously known as the "Office Lamp" of the golden age of Danish design. The lamp is a study in material purity: a glossy, three-layer mouth-blown opal glass shade paired with untreated brushed brass that develops a unique patina over time, telling the story of the home it inhabits.
The "Dual-Light" System: The opening at the bottom of the glass provides a precise, unobstructed beam of downward light for surfaces (tables/islands), while the three-layer opal glass diffuses light laterally to eliminate shadows and harsh glare.
Mouth-Blown Opal Glass: The shade is crafted using a traditional glass-blowing technique where three layers (transparent, white, transparent) are fused to create a "milky" depth that hides the bulb perfectly while glowing evenly.
Color Expansion: While the Opal White remains the standard, the collection features "Nuanced Warmth" variants in Pale Rose, Pale Yellow, and Amber, designed to add a soft tonal filter to modern minimalist rooms.
Untreated Brass Detailing: The pendant tube and hardware are made of real, untreated brass. Unlike lacquered imitations, this brass will darken and mature into a rich, antique gold finish over time.
Expert Recommendations
The "Classic Trio" Island: Hang three 175mm (small) pendants in a linear row over a kitchen island. The repetitive vertical brass stems create a sense of architectural rhythm and height.
The Dining Room Anchor: Position a single 370mm (large) pendant 30–34 inches above a round dining table. The downward light highlights the meal, while the ambient glow illuminates the faces of guests without eye strain.
Tonal Layering: Use the Pale Rose or Amber variants in bedrooms or cozy reading nooks. These colors "warm up" the light, mimicking the golden hour of sunset, making them ideal for winding down.
Practicality & Heritage
Why is the brass "untreated"? Louis Poulsen preserves the original intent of Lauritzen—allowing the metal to react with the air. If you prefer a shiny look, it can be polished, but most collectors prize the natural, dark patina.
Can I use smart bulbs? Yes. The standard E26/E27 sockets are fully compatible with Philips Hue or other smart home systems, allowing you to adjust the "glow" of the glass digitally.
Is the glass fragile? While it is high-quality mouth-blown glass, the "triple-layer" construction makes it more durable and heat-resistant than standard single-layer glass shades.
