Founded in 1950s Paris, Lunel quickly established itself as one of the most iconic French lighting publishers of the modern design era. Based near Place de la Madeleine, this family-run business embodied the spirit of innovation and refinement that defined the golden age of French design. Under the leadership of its founder, R. Lunel—a passionate advocate for architecture, interior spaces, and aeronautics—the brand became renowned for its industrial yet artisanal approach, blending lacquered tubular metal, brass, opaline glass, and porcelain to create pieces that were elegant, functional, and timeless.

A Distinctive Style Lunel gained recognition for its sleek and minimalist design language, where clean lines and noble materials harmonized to produce lighting that was both modern and luxurious. The collections of the 1950s and 1960s marked a turning point in the history of French lighting design, featuring iconic models such as:

• Wall sconces and pendant lights shaped like flowers (lily of the valley, arum lilies, bouquets), where opaline glass added a touch of softness and poetry.
• Floor lamps and suspensions in lacquered tubular metal, symbols of a design that was resolutely modern and functional.
• Brass lighting fixtures, which brought warmth and sophistication to interiors.

These creations, showcased at the Salon des Arts Ménagers, the Salon des Artistes Décorateurs, and even the Milan Fair, captivated an audience eager for modernity. Lunel collaborated with renowned designers such as Pierre Guariche, Jean Royère, Joseph-André Motte, Pierre Paulin, and Alain Richard, further solidifying its reputation as an exceptional publisher.

A Reinvented Legacy After a period of inactivity, the brand was revived by Agathe Lunel, the founder’s granddaughter, who relaunched production in the 2000s. Staying true to the original spirit, she reinterprets the iconic classics of the 1950s while introducing new contemporary lines, all handcrafted in French luxury workshops. Lunel’s lighting, produced in limited editions, continues to captivate design enthusiasts with its artisanal quality, timeless elegance, and industrial craftsmanship.

Today, Lunel remains a symbol of post-war French design, a bridge between tradition and modernity, where each piece tells a story of light, boldness, and passion