If you’ve ever looked up at a bare CFL bulb and thought, “Wow, that’s…sad,” the Original Plumen 001 was designed
specifically for you. This screw fitting designer bulb took the most boring object in the room and turned it into
the star of the show – all while cutting energy use and lasting far longer than old-school incandescent bulbs.
In this guide, we’ll walk through what makes the Original Plumen 001 screw fitting bulb special, how it works in
everyday fixtures, where it shines (literally and figuratively), and what to know if you’re pairing it with
pendants, lamps, or statement light fittings. We’ll also talk about the updated LED versions, real-world energy
savings, and how this quirky bulb went from “weird curly thing” to design-icon status.
What Exactly Is the Original Plumen 001?
The Original Plumen 001 screw fitting bulb is a designer low-energy light bulb with a sculptural, looping form
that looks more like modern art than a utility item. Instead of hiding the bulb with a shade, Plumen designed the
bulb itself to be the decorative element. The screw fitting version uses a standard Edison screw base (E26 or E27,
depending on the region), so it can fit into many of the fixtures you already own without any special adapters.
Originally launched as a compact fluorescent (CFL) energy-saving bulb and later re-imagined as a high-performing
LED, the Plumen 001 was marketed as the world’s first designer low-energy light bulb. Its main promise:
dramatically lower energy consumption and a much longer life span compared with the typical incandescent bulb it
replaced – all without looking like a sad spiral hidden under a dusty drum shade.
From Utility to Icon: The Design Story
The Original Plumen 001 was developed by design company Hulger in collaboration with industrial designer
Samuel Wilkinson. Their question was simple: why is the symbol of the “bright idea” itself such a dull object in
real life? The answer became a bulb with a flowing, double-looped tube (or LED track, in later versions) that
looks dynamic even when it’s switched off.
That design quickly picked up serious attention in the design world. The Plumen 001 went on to win major awards,
including “Design of the Year” and “Product of the Year” from London’s Design Museum, as well as the
highly coveted Black Pencil from D&AD – one of the highest honors in design. It’s also been included in the
permanent collections of major museums, including MoMA and the V&A. This is one of the very few light bulbs that
can honestly say it’s both a household object and a museum piece.
Understanding the Screw Fitting: E26 vs. E27
When you’re shopping for the Original Plumen 001 screw fitting, the base type matters just as much as the design.
The bulb typically comes with an Edison screw (ES) base:
- E26 screw fitting: Common in North America, often called a “medium base” or “standard base.”
- E27 screw fitting: Common in Europe and many other regions; slightly different diameter but
visually almost identical.
Many Plumen 001 versions were produced specifically for each market, so you’ll see 120 V models with an E26 base
for U.S. fixtures and 220–240 V E27 versions for European and international fixtures. If you’re replacing an
existing bulb, check the stamp on the metal base of your old one – it will usually say E26 or E27. Match that, and
your Original Plumen 001 screw fitting should twist right in.
The nice part: most common pendant sockets, basic ceiling fittings, and many floor and table lamps use this same
screw fitting. That means you can drop an elegant designer bulb into a $20 cord set and instantly make it look
like a curated boutique fixture.
Technical Specs (Without Putting You to Sleep)
Depending on whether you’re looking at the early CFL version or the later LED version, the numbers vary a bit. In
general, here’s what you can expect from an Original Plumen 001 screw fitting bulb:
- Power consumption: Roughly 6.5–15 watts, depending on version (LED versions at the lower end,
older CFL closer to 15 W). - Light output: Around 500–800 lumens, comparable to a 35–60 W incandescent bulb.
- Color temperature: Warm white, typically around 2700–3500 K, giving a cozy, inviting glow
rather than harsh office lighting. - Lifetime: Thousands of hours – many LED versions are rated around 20,000 hours under normal
use. - Energy savings: Roughly 80% less energy than comparable incandescent bulbs with similar light
output. - Dimming: Many LED models are dimmable when paired with compatible LED dimmer switches; older
CFL versions were often non-dimmable.
In plain English: you get a warm, comfortable light that’s bright enough for most living spaces, uses a fraction
of the energy of old bulbs, and doesn’t burn out every time you host a dinner party. All while looking like a
sculptural element in your room instead of a small plastic spaceship.
Why the Original Plumen 001 Became a Design Classic
The Plumen 001 screw fitting bulb hit a sweet spot at the moment when energy-saving bulbs were becoming common,
but still looked frankly unattractive. Designers and homeowners who cared about sustainability often felt forced
to choose between style and efficiency. The Original Plumen 001 said, “Why not both?”
A few reasons it stuck around in design circles:
- It treats the bulb as the star, not the afterthought. You can hang it without a shade and the
fixture still feels complete. - It plays well with minimal fixtures – simple cords, bare sockets, and clean hardware suddenly
look intentional. - It makes sustainability visible. Instead of hiding the “green” part, the bulb broadcasts that
you chose something efficient and beautiful. - It photographs well, which made it a darling of interior blogs, magazines, and Pinterest
boards.
Add the fact that it was one of the first low-energy bulbs to be treated like a true design object, and it’s not
surprising that it became a go-to piece for architects, interior designers, and anyone building a modern,
slightly playful home.
Where the Original Plumen 001 Screw Fitting Works Best
Because the bulb is so visually distinctive, the key is to place it where it’s visible and appreciated:
Over the Dining Table
Hang a single Plumen 001 over a small round table, or cluster three over a longer rectangular one. Use simple
sockets in black, white, or brass and keep the shades (if any) minimal or fully open. The warm white light helps
food look appealing, and the swooping form looks elegant in photos – perfect if your dinner parties always end up
on Instagram.
In the Entryway
A bare-bulb pendant near the front door can feel awkward with a standard bulb, but swap in the Original Plumen 001
and suddenly it looks intentional. Because the screw fitting works with many inexpensive cord sets, you can upgrade
a basic entry in minutes without rewiring the house.
Over a Kitchen Island or Bar
Clustered Plumen 001 bulbs over a kitchen island give a slightly industrial but playful vibe, especially when
paired with matte metal hardware and simple cabinetry. Use dimmable LED versions if you want bright light for
cooking and softer light for late-night snacks.
In Coffee Shops, Bars, and Restaurants
Commercial spaces love the Original Plumen 001 screw fitting because it gives instant character. A row of these
bulbs in a café or bar instantly signals “design-conscious but laid back.” If you’re designing a hospitality space,
pairing them with exposed brick, concrete, or natural wood is basically a cheat code for “cool, modern ambiance.”
Installation Tips for Screw Fitting Plumen Bulbs
The good news: installing an Original Plumen 001 screw fitting bulb is just as easy as installing a standard
bulb, with a few extra things to keep in mind.
-
Check the base type first. Confirm whether your fixture uses E26 (U.S.) or E27 (many other
regions) and buy the matching Plumen 001 version. -
Match the voltage. Fixtures in North America typically run at 120 V, while many other regions
use 220–240 V. Use a bulb rated for your voltage to avoid damaging it. -
Turn off power before swapping bulbs. Yes, you probably already know this – but future-you
(who just touched a hot filament or live contact) will appreciate the reminder. -
Check for dimmer compatibility. If your fixture is on a dimmer switch, make sure your Plumen
001 LED version is labeled as dimmable, and that your dimmer is rated for LED bulbs. -
Give it space to breathe. Because the bulb is meant to be seen, avoid cramming it into tight,
opaque shades that hide the form and trap heat.
Original CFL vs. LED Plumen 001: What’s the Difference?
Over time, the Plumen 001 evolved from a compact fluorescent design to an LED version. If you’re browsing
secondhand or older stock, you may see both. Here’s how they generally compare:
-
Energy use: Both are low-energy, but LEDs typically use even less power for the same light
output. -
Lifetime: CFL versions already lasted many times longer than incandescent bulbs; LEDs push that
even further, often up to around 20,000 hours under normal use. - Warm-up time: CFLs can take a moment to reach full brightness; LEDs are essentially instant-on.
-
Dimming: Many LED Plumen 001 versions support dimming with compatible switches; CFL versions are
more likely to be non-dimmable. -
Recycling: CFLs contain a small amount of mercury and should be recycled properly. LEDs don’t
contain mercury but still benefit from proper electronic recycling when they eventually fail.
From a design perspective, both share the same sculptural, looping silhouette. If you’re starting fresh today,
the LED version with a screw fitting is usually the smarter choice – it’s more efficient, more flexible, and more
future-proof.
Styling Ideas: Making the Plumen 001 the Star of the Room
The easiest mistake with a Plumen 001 screw fitting bulb is to treat it like a normal bulb and hide it. Instead,
think of it as a small, glowing sculpture:
-
Use clear or open shades. Glass globes, wire cages, or no shade at all show off the bulb’s
curves. -
Cluster multiple bulbs. A cluster of three, five, or even seven Plumen 001 bulbs at staggered
heights can create a chandelier-like effect without a heavy fixture. -
Play with color in the cords. Since the bulb itself is visually complex, keep shades neutral
but have fun with fabric cords in black, gray, brass, or muted color tones. -
Pair with clean interiors. Minimalist rooms, Scandinavian-inspired spaces, and modern lofts are
natural homes for this bulb’s graphic form.
Think of the Original Plumen 001 screw fitting as jewelry for your lighting. You can keep everything else simple
and let this one detail carry the personality.
Buying and Availability
Depending on where you shop, you might see the Original Plumen 001 screw fitting listed as a CFL “low energy”
bulb, an LED re-issue, or simply a designer decorative bulb with a sculptural form. Some early CFL models have been
discontinued in favor of LED, but many retailers still carry LED Plumen 001 bulbs in E26/E27 screw fittings.
When comparing options, check:
- Base type (E26 vs. E27)
- Wattage (for power use)
- Lumens (for brightness)
- Color temperature (for warmth of the light)
- Dimmable vs. non-dimmable
That way you’ll get the look you want and the performance your room needs. The design might be playful,
but the specs should still match your actual lighting requirements.
Real-Life Experiences with the Original Plumen 001 Screw Fitting
Specs are great, but the real magic of the Original Plumen 001 shows up in everyday spaces. Here are some
experience-based insights that don’t always make it into the product sheet.
Transforming a Small Apartment on a Budget
Imagine a basic rental: white walls, builder-grade fixtures, and a suspiciously enthusiastic beige carpet. Swap
the standard bulbs in the living-room pendant for Original Plumen 001 screw fitting bulbs, and suddenly the room
feels deliberate instead of temporary. The light quality stays warm and inviting, but the looping silhouette
immediately reads as “design choice” rather than “whatever the landlord left.”
One of the biggest perks here is cost vs. impact. You’re not paying for a heavy statement chandelier or hiring an
electrician to rewire anything. You’re unscrewing an old bulb, screwing in a new one, and getting a visual
upgrade every time you flip the switch.
Using Plumen 001 in a Home Office
In a home office, lighting has to balance looks and productivity. A Plumen 001 screw fitting bulb over the desk
pairs well with a secondary task lamp: the Plumen sets the overall mood (warm, slightly café-like), while a more
focused LED or desk lamp handles close-up work. The sculptural bulb over your workspace sends a subtle visual
signal that this is a creative zone, not just a “laptop on the kitchen table” situation.
People who work from home often report that the right lighting makes them more likely to actually sit at their
desk rather than migrate to the couch. A distinctive bulb like the Original Plumen 001 can help carve out that
sense of “this is my studio,” even in a one-bedroom apartment.
Creating Atmosphere in a Restaurant or Café
In hospitality spaces, the Plumen 001 screw fitting really earns its keep. Restaurant owners and café designers
love it because it delivers personality and atmosphere without overwhelming the rest of the design. In a dimmer
bar setting, rows of dimmable Plumen 001 bulbs create a soft glow that flatters people’s faces and makes everything
feel a little more cinematic.
There’s also a practical side: using energy-saving bulbs in a commercial setting can significantly reduce energy
costs over time. When fixtures are on for many hours a day, that 70–80% reduction in energy use compared with old
incandescent bulbs adds up quietly in the background while guests just notice that the lighting feels “cool.”
Living with the Bulb Day to Day
Day-to-day, most owners describe the Original Plumen 001 screw fitting as the kind of small detail that guests
actually comment on. People notice the looping shape, ask what kind of bulb it is, and sometimes assume the fixture
is custom. The fact that it also saves energy and lasts far longer than a regular bulb is the bonus you get to
mention once they’ve already said, “Okay, that is a great light.”
The experience is a bit like owning a designer chair or a nice coffee table book – except in this case, it’s a
light bulb you can install in minutes. You end up with a room that looks more curated, more intentional, and
frankly more fun, just because you treated the light bulb as part of the design story instead of an afterthought.
Final Thoughts
The Original Plumen 001 screw fitting bulb isn’t just a way to see better – it’s a way to be seen a bit
differently as well. It signals that you care about design, you care about energy use, and you’re willing to swap a
tiny everyday object for one that feels like a miniature sculpture.
Whether you install one over a kitchen island, a cluster in a restaurant, or a single bulb in an entryway, the
Plumen 001 has a knack for making a space feel more designed with almost no effort. Screw it in, flip the switch,
and let the loops do the talking.
