A mushroom lamp is a table lamp shaped like a mushroom — with a stem and a broad, dome-shaped cap that acts as the lampshade. It became popular in the 70s through Italian designers and is now back as a retro favourite in modern homes. At Dims Studio you'll find mushroom lamps from AU Maison and other European manufacturers, mainly in coloured glass and ceramic. The light becomes soft and diffused through the cap — perfect for atmospheric lighting on a bedside table, coffee table or shelf.
You've probably seen it on Instagram or at a friend's — a lamp that looks like a little round toadstool, often in soft coloured glass, spreading the light gently through its cap. That's a mushroom lamp. It was popular in the 70s, forgotten in the 80s and 90s, and is now back as one of the most characterful decor pieces in modern Danish homes.
What is a mushroom lamp?
A mushroom lamp is a table lamp whose shape directly mimics a mushroom — typically a toadstool. It consists of a short, sturdy stem (the lamp's base) and a broad, dome-shaped cap that acts as the lampshade. The bulb sits inside the cap, so the light becomes diffused and warm as it filters through the material.
The height typically ranges from 15 to 40 cm — from mini versions to larger standard sizes. The material is most often coloured or frosted glass, but hand-painted ceramic can also be found.
The history and design tradition
The mushroom lamp has Italian roots. The design tradition began in the 1960s, when Italian designers such as Achille Castiglioni and Vico Magistretti began experimenting with organic, biomimetic shapes for lamps. The icon is Castiglioni's "Snoopy" lamp (1967), which had a similar dome shape.
In the 1970s, the shape was massively popularised by Italian glassworks, particularly in Murano. Here, the mushroom lamp was made in mouth-blown coloured glass, often in pastel and pop colours. It was part of the larger "anti-design" movement: lamps shouldn't be formal or architectural — they should be playful.
After the 80s, the mushroom lamp almost completely disappeared from Danish interiors. Over the past 5-7 years, it has made a comeback as part of the 70s revival and maximalist decor. AU Maison is one of the European brands that has put the mushroom lamp back on the Danish market.
Did you know? Mushroom lamps can be spotted in Italian 70s films like The Conformist and in Pedro Almodóvar's later productions — deliberately used there as a cultural signal of playful, expressive decor.
Materials and types
At Dims Studio, mushroom lamps are mainly available in two materials:
- Mouth-blown glass: Classic Italian tradition. The cap is coloured during the blowing process, giving depth and slight variations in colour intensity. The light becomes soft and atmospheric.
- Hand-painted ceramic: Heavier, more sculptural. The cap often has a matte finish that spreads the light evenly. Found at AU Maison mushroom lamps in mint green, pink and other colour variants.
You'll also find mini versions (under 20 cm) and standard sizes (25-40 cm). Larger decorative versions over 50 cm are mostly used as a statement piece on a console table.
Where should you place a mushroom lamp?
- Bedside table: The classic placement — the light is soft enough to read by and warm enough to help you settle into sleep.
- Coffee table: As an accent during a cosy evening — without the dominant overhead lighting.
- Shelf or console table: As a decorative object that also works as a light source.
- Desk: Mini versions as soft task lighting.
Combine with other candlesticks or ceramic candlesticks for varied lighting throughout the same room.
How to choose a mushroom lamp
- Colour of the shade: The colour determines how the light is experienced. Pink and light pink give a warm and cosy light; mint green and blue give a cooler, more subdued atmosphere.
- Height in relation to furniture: The top edge of the lamp should be at eye level when you're sitting next to it — that way you avoid glare.
- Cord and switch: Check whether the switch sits on the cord or on the lamp itself. An on/off switch on the base itself is the most user-friendly.
- Bulb fitting: E14 (small) or E27 (large). Choose LED for a longer lifespan and less heat build-up.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called a mushroom lamp?
Because the shape directly mimics a mushroom — typically a toadstool with a short, sturdy stem and a wide dome-shaped cap. The design tradition began in Italy in the 1960s-1970s and became icons in the 70s, when the shape was seen as both ironically playful and functionally clever (the cap hides the light bulb).
Which bulb should I use in a mushroom lamp?
Most mushroom lamps use E14 or E27 bulbs. Choose a bulb with a warm white light (2,700-3,000 Kelvin) to get that classic, cosy glow. LED bulbs are preferable as they generate less heat — important because the cap sits close to the bulb.
How tall should a mushroom lamp be?
On the bedside table or coffee table: 30-40 cm in total height works best. For a desk or workspace: 35-50 cm. For a console table or shelf: look at the proportions relative to the furniture — a mushroom lamp that's too small gets lost.
Can the mushroom lamp's cap withstand heat from the bulb?
Glass mushroom lamps handle heat from LED and incandescent bulbs without any problems. Plastic shades (rare in quality models) can discolour over time. Always use the bulb recommended by the manufacturer — it's typically a lower wattage than ordinary table lamps.
How do I clean a glass mushroom lamp?
Turn off the lamp and remove the bulb. Wipe gently with a soft, damp cloth and mild washing-up liquid. Avoid abrasive cleaners. Dry afterwards with a soft dry cloth to prevent streaks. The glass shade can also be washed in lukewarm water in the sink if it's removable.
Summary
The mushroom lamp is one of the most characterful lighting elements you can add to a home. It works both as functional lighting and as a decorative sculpture — even when switched off. A good choice of shade colour can change the whole atmosphere of a room, and because the shape is so distinctive, it works across many interior styles — from retro and bohemian to Scandinavian minimalism.
Take a look at our range of mushroom lamps — from AU Maison and other European glassworks.
