Modeline of California: Pioneer of Modern Lighting

A detailed, never-before-told history of the Modeline Lamp Company, including photographs and exploring its designs, influence on modern lighting, and the stories behind its enduring legacy.

Readers step into the captivating history of Modeline, the brand that revolutionized interior lighting with its stunning midcentury modern designs. Richly illustrated and captivatingly written, Modeline of California: Pioneer of Modern Lighting unveils the yet-untold story of Bernie Roberts and his journey from a penniless machinist to the founder of a company that defined a generation of design. From its roots in postwar class struggle to its influence on modern marketing and celebrity culture, Modeline of California is an indispensable resource for enthusiasts of architecture, interior design, and cultural history.

This book covers the drama, creativity, and innovation that made Modeline a wellspring of influence, shaping both the modern design movement of the 1950s and today’s mainstream lighting trends.

Key Features:

• Exclusive historical insights: Reveals the origins of modern lighting and Modeline’s role in defining midcentury modern design
• Celebrity connections: Readers learn of Modeline's influence on Hollywood set decorators, movie stars, and even Muhammad Ali’s connection to the end of Modeline’s reign
• Over 250 high-quality images: Features previously unreleased photos and designs showcasing Modeline’s unique syle
• Cultural impact: Explores Modeline’s legacy in shaping the furniture and lighting industries
• Fascinating narratives: Engaging stories of union clashes, Hollywood connections, and postwar innovation that still shapes the modern world in various domains
• Author's expertise: Written by the foremost authority on Modeline and midcentury modern lighting, who has spent years documenting the history shared by Modeline’s original families and designers

A riveting volume that exhumes the legacy of Modeline and uncovers dramatic and pertinent history. Readers can discover why Modeline's timeless designs still captivate collectors and worldwide design enthusiasts today.