G13 by Pierre Guariche: The Iconic Ceiling Light Reissued by Sammode
G13 by Pierre Guariche: The Iconic Ceiling Light Reissued by Sammode
A timeless icon of French design
Designed in 1952 by Pierre Guariche, the G13 ceiling light is one of the most iconic creations of post-war French design. More than 70 years after its original launch, this timeless luminaire has been faithfully reissued by Sammode, preserving the spirit of the original while incorporating today’s lighting technologies.
With its minimalist silhouette, soft illumination and distinctive Fresnel glass lens, the G13 perfectly reflects Pierre Guariche’s philosophy: creating elegant, functional lighting where every detail enhances everyday comfort.
Today, it blends effortlessly into both contemporary and classic interiors.
Pierre Guariche: A pioneer of French design
Pierre Guariche: A pioneer of French design
Born in 1926, Pierre Guariche is regarded as one of the leading French designers of the 20th century.
After graduating from the École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, he played a key role in redefining French furniture and lighting design during the 1950s.
His work was guided by three essential principles:
- simplicity;
- functionality;
- optimal lighting performance.
For Guariche, a luminaire should never be purely decorative—it should first and foremost provide comfortable, efficient and functional light.
Today, his creations are displayed in prestigious museums around the world and remain benchmarks of modern design.
G13: A ceiling light designed around light itself
G13: A ceiling light designed around light itself
At first glance, the G13 captivates with its clean and perfectly balanced form.
Behind this apparent simplicity lies sophisticated research into light distribution.
Its perforated metal body is paired with a genuine glass Fresnel lens, one of the collection’s defining features.
This optical lens distributes light evenly while reducing glare.
The result is a warm, comfortable and perfectly diffused illumination suitable for everyday living.
The G13 beautifully demonstrates how technical innovation and timeless aesthetics can coexist.
A faithful reissue showcasing Sammode’s expertise
A faithful reissue showcasing Sammode’s expertise
Founded in 1927, French manufacturer Sammode is internationally renowned for producing high-quality architectural and technical lighting.
In recent years, the company has also become known for faithfully reissuing iconic French lighting designs, including those by Pierre Guariche.
Its objective is clear: preserve the authenticity of the original designs while adapting them to today’s technical standards.
Every G13 ceiling light is manufactured in Sammode’s historic factory in Châtillon-sur-Saône, France.
The proportions, materials and finishes remain true to Guariche’s original drawings while integrating modern lighting technologies.
This meticulous approach allows Sammode to preserve French design heritage for future generations.
Made in France
Made in France
The G13 is entirely manufactured in France.
Each luminaire benefits from Sammode’s exceptional industrial expertise, ensuring outstanding quality, durability and long-term performance.
The fixture features a perforated metal body combined with a glass Fresnel lens, providing excellent light diffusion and remarkable durability.
Choosing the G13 means investing in a lighting fixture designed to last for decades.
Three sizes to suit every interior
Three sizes to suit every interior
The G13 collection is available in three diameters.
The small version (Ø17 cm) is ideal for hallways, entrances, offices or compact bedrooms.
The medium version (Ø25 cm) is highly versatile and perfectly suited to living rooms, kitchens and bedrooms.
The large version (Ø35 cm) becomes a true architectural feature while providing generous illumination for larger spaces.
The three sizes can also be combined to create elegant lighting compositions throughout an interior.
Three timeless finishes
Three timeless finishes
The G13 ceiling light is available in three carefully selected finishes:
- Black
- White
- Grey
These understated colours highlight Pierre Guariche’s original design while complementing contemporary, industrial, minimalist or classic interiors.
Warm, dimmable lighting
Warm, dimmable lighting
The G13 uses E14 LED bulbs for the small version and E27 LED bulbs for the medium and large versions.
A 2700K warm white LED is recommended to create a cosy and welcoming atmosphere.
Compatible with an external wall dimmer (sold separately), the G13 allows brightness to be adjusted according to the desired mood, from relaxing ambient lighting to brighter task lighting.
Where can the G13 be installed?
Where can the G13 be installed?
Thanks to its timeless design, the G13 is suitable for many different spaces.
It is ideal for:
- living rooms;
- bedrooms;
- entrances;
- hallways;
- offices;
- kitchens.
Its elegant appearance and excellent light diffusion also make it an excellent choice for hotels, restaurants and high-end commercial interiors.
Why choose the G13 today?
Why choose the G13 today?
More than seventy years after its creation, the G13 remains remarkably contemporary.
Its timeless design has outlived changing trends while retaining its elegance.
It combines:
- a design by one of France’s greatest designers;
- premium French craftsmanship;
- durable materials;
- exceptional lighting quality;
- modern LED compatibility.
This unique combination of heritage, innovation and craftsmanship explains why architects, interior designers and design enthusiasts continue to choose the G13 today.
Sammode: French lighting expertise since 1927
Sammode: French lighting expertise since 1927
For nearly a century, Sammode has been designing and manufacturing lighting renowned for its durability, engineering excellence and outstanding build quality.
Based in Châtillon-sur-Saône, France, the company controls every stage of production while preserving exceptional French industrial craftsmanship.
Alongside its technical lighting collections, Sammode has become a reference in faithfully reissuing iconic French design classics, particularly those created by Pierre Guariche.
This commitment allows timeless designs to live on while meeting today’s expectations for quality, comfort and sustainability.
Conclusion
Conclusion
The G13 ceiling light perfectly embodies the elegance and innovation of 1950s French design.
Thanks to Sammode’s faithful reissue, Pierre Guariche’s iconic creation continues to illuminate contemporary interiors with the same timeless sophistication as when it was first introduced.
Manufactured in France and available in three sizes and several finishes, the G13 combines exceptional craftsmanship, refined aesthetics and outstanding lighting performance, making it a lasting investment for any interior.
FAQ – G13 Ceiling Light by Pierre Guariche
FAQ – G13 Ceiling Light by Pierre Guariche
Who designed the G13 ceiling light?
The G13 was designed in 1952 by renowned French designer Pierre Guariche, one of the leading figures of twentieth-century design.
Where is the G13 manufactured?
The G13 is manufactured in France at Sammode’s historic factory in Châtillon-sur-Saône.
What sizes are available?
The collection is available in three diameters: 17 cm, 25 cm, and 35 cm.
Which light bulbs does it use?
The small model uses an E14 LED bulb, while the medium and large versions use E27 LED bulbs.
Is the G13 dimmable?
Yes. The G13 is compatible with an external wall dimmer (not included), allowing brightness adjustment.
Which rooms is the G13 suitable for?
It is ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, entrances, kitchens and offices.
Which finishes are available?
The G13 is available in Black, White and Grey.
Why choose a Sammode reissue?
Sammode faithfully reproduces Pierre Guariche’s original designs while incorporating modern lighting technologies and exceptional French manufacturing expertise.
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