The Coveted Mid-Century Modern Lamp Thrifters Would Be Thrilled To Find

Stumbling upon a design icon in the wild is no easy feat, but that doesn't stop vigilant thrifters from trying. As far as rare and valuable vintage lamps are concerned, second-hand shoppers consider finds like a 1920s Tiffany lamp or the iconic emeralite banker's lamp to be a success. However, one retro lighting source far surpasses its counterparts, literally and metaphorically. The Arco lamp from Italian manufacturer Flos is a mid-century modern structural marvel that's "a ceiling lamp without being a ceiling lamp," according to Architectural Digest.   

Italian brothers Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni got the idea for the lamp in 1962 in Paris while staring at the shape of the streetlights. Their goal was to create a similar structure for the home that gave off light without being suspended from the ceiling. The lamps are anchored by a slab of Carrara marble from which a long, curved stainless steel stem of about seven feet extends outward with the spherical shade at the end. When Flos put their idea into motion, it was considered an experiment. Ultimately, that experiment became a defining feature of mid-century modern style that offered practicality and flair. The silhouette was and still is considered innovative and unmistakable, and even a pop culture icon thanks to appearances in films like "The Italian Job" (2003). 

While there are plenty of different types of lamps — and plenty of Arco dupes — nothing quite stacks up to the original. Vintage finds from the '60s can cost anywhere between $1,000 and $4,000. The lamps are still in production today, with some hovering in the $4,000 range, and the anniversary edition Arco K, which features a Transparent K9 crystal glass base, starts at $12,600. As far as the originals go, you'll be able to spot them by a few key features, including the marble's curved corners, a hole in the base to help with lifting and transportation, and a perforated shade. 

With such a distinct history comes a hefty price tag. If you want a cheaper and easier-to-find version, there are copycat lamps, like the All Modern Georgia 78" dimmable floor lamp ($249) and West Elm's overarching metal shade floor lamp ($449) that aren't nearly as expensive but still offer a similar aesthetic. 

The beauty of the Arco lamp is that it not only fits into a modern space, but it can be used in a curated home with vintage finds, too. The pros credit its reputation and practicality for remaining a go-to pick. If you're styling an Arco, or an Arco-lookalike, consider placing it behind a couch with cozy textiles and wooden accents, or station it in a dining area above the table. For a true nod to the '60s, place it behind a setup of sleek leather couches in the living room next to wood accents, amongst an earthy color palette, and in the midst of a minimalistic approach.