Bestlite - Gubi

Bestlite – Lighting Series from 1930

Bestlite is a lighting series designed in 1930 by the British designer Robert Dudley Best. The series was developed at a time when functionalism gained traction in architecture and design, with clear connections to Bauhaus. Its design language is based on construction and movement, marking a departure from earlier decorative ideals in British design. Today, Bestlite is produced by Gubi, based on the original drawings.

The series has been in continuous production since its introduction and is represented in permanent collections at several museums. It constitutes an established example of 20th-century industrial lighting design.

Function and Construction

Bestlite is designed to provide directed light with high precision. The adjustable arm and the clearly defined shade make it possible to control the direction of the light without spill. The construction is mechanically built, where joints and fittings are visible and directly linked to function.

The luminaire is developed for task lighting and other situations where concentrated light is required. The balance between mobility and stability is central, and the construction is dimensioned to maintain its function over time.

The form is consistently built from geometric elements, without decorative additions. Each part fulfills a clear function, which gives a coherent and technically characterized expression.

Materials and Finish

Bestlite is manufactured in metal, with finishes in powder-coated steel, chrome, or brass. Material choices are guided by requirements for durability and precision in manufacturing. The surface treatments are developed to withstand continuous use without affecting the construction's function.

Manufacturing relies on a combination of industrial methods and meticulous finishing, which ensures consistent quality across the series' various parts.

Series Models

The Bestlite series includes several types of lamps, including table lamp, wall lamp, floor lamp, and ceiling lamp in brass. The series includes models such as Bestlite BL1, BL6, BL7, and BL5. All variants are based on the same construction principles, with differences lying in mounting and use.

The common structure gives the series a clear coherence, while each model is adapted to its function.

Design and Production

Robert Dudley Best developed the series with a focus on functional needs and industrial manufacturing. The inspiration from Bauhaus is evident in how the construction is allowed to define form and expression.

Gubi is responsible for the current production of Bestlite. Manufacturing is based on the original design, with technical adjustments to meet modern requirements. The focus is on preserving proportions, mobility, and construction.