Wornum Street Lights
The Timeless Charm of Wornum Street Lights: A Glimpse into British Urban History
Streetlights have always been a crucial part of city life, guiding our paths and adding character to the night. Among these urban beacons, the grey Wornum lights stand out as a prime example of British street lighting, blending old-school charm with modern ingenuity. Back in 1958, British architect George Grey Wornum introduced these iconic lights, and they’ve since become a fixture on streets, squares, and landmarks across the United Kingdom but mainly in the capital London.
A Look Back at the Start: How Wornum Lights Came to Be
In 1958, George Grey Wornum brought a new kind of street light to London. He took inspiration from the old Victorian gas lanterns that once lit up the city streets and aimed to give a touch of timeless elegance to the modern cityscape. These lights were initially made from Steel/Copper and caught attention of both city residents and officials.
Adaptation and Evolution: From Cast Iron to Aluminium
As time moved forward, changes were in store. In the 1970s, the Wornum lights switched from steel/copper to aluminium/copper or Steel/copper/ aluminium. This shift not only extended their lifespan but also made them easier to maintain and install. These lights became a distinctive presence along city streets. They emitted a warm, inviting glow that added to the overall atmosphere.
Staying Up to Date with Modern Innovation
Advancements in lighting technology didn’t leave the Wornum lights behind. In the 1980s, the integration of high-pressure sodium lamps took these lights to a new level of efficiency. This upgrade enhanced their energy performance, contributing to a more sustainable urban lighting setup. Then from the 2000 they have been up graded again to use the energy efficient LED lamps.
A Journey through Time: Milestones in Wornum Lights’ History
Let’s take a quick trip through history to see how Wornum lights have evolved:
- 1958 Wornum lights make their first appearance on London streets.
- 1960s Popularity spreads across the United Kingdom as these lights become a common sight in various cities.
- 1970s Transition from cast iron to aluminium marks a significant change in design and materials.
- 1980s The introduction of high-pressure sodium lamps improves energy efficiency.
- 1990s Wornum lights find their place in residential areas, becoming a popular choice for street lighting.
- 2000s A classic British street lighting icon continues to stand strong.
A Symbol Beyond London: Wornum Lights Across the UK
The charm of Wornum lights isn’t confined to London’s boundaries. These captivating lights can be found in other notable cities and towns across the United Kingdom, including Bath, Bristol, and Edinburgh. Their widespread use speaks volumes about their enduring appeal and practicality. They found their way to some of London’s most recognizable spots. The Embankment, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, and Regent Street all embraced these lights’ soft glow, adding an extra layer of character to these locations.
Bringing the Charm Home: Your Own Wornum Lights
You don’t have to just admire Wornum lights from afar. With have reclaimed a number of these original lights and they are available in original condition or can be upcycled and rewired, you can bring a touch of this timeless elegance to your own space. Imagine your home, patio, or driveway illuminated by the same classic British charm. As you step outside, you’re greeted by the soft, inviting glow that has graced the streets of London and beyond.
These lights are available to purchase here
A couple of videos of Worms on Stands below
