Lightswing: Then & Now

From an idea at a kitchen table in Leeuwarden to the design brand Lightswing® is today, celebrating 12.5 years of innovation and design

More than a product…

Lightswing® was never just about moving a lamp. It was about creating flexibility. Giving people the freedom to adapt their space as life changes.

That idea continues to guide everything designed today at Lightswing®.

Our Story

How a prototype turned into a business

Paul is sitting at the kitchen table in his new house, when his wife decides she wants to rotate the table a quarter turn. Looks good, but the pendant light above dangles lost in space above the end. If the pendant light is moved, it will leave an ugly mark on the ceiling. “It must be possible to move this kind of pendant light easily”, thinks Paul.

He dives into his shed and comes up with a first prototype. Paul is sure that he’s not the only one with this problem. A website is set up, and orders arrive in no time at all!

In the following period, Paul keeps experimenting with the design and the functionality of the Lightswing. In the meantime the Lightswing has developed into a unique and unmistakable interior piece which has already been installed in more than 25,000 households. And the suspension system is still being discovered every day by interior enthusiasts, DIYers and convenience-seekers across the world.

Timeline

Throughout the years

2011: The idea is born

The first 100 prototypes were developed and sold.

2012: Lightswing® gets patented

After developing prototypes and researching the market,
the time is there to register Lightswing® with a patent.

2012: Lightswing® gets patented

After developing prototypes and researching the market,
the time is there to register Lightswing® with a patent.

2014: The Official start

Teaming up
John joins Lightswing®, turning an invention into a growing business.

7 colors available
Copper, Chromed, Galvanized, Brass, Stainless Steel, White & Black.

Online growth
Lightswing® takes the next step in online growth by launching on bol.com.

Meeting the public
Lightswing® is showcased at the VT Wonen fair, now in multiple colours.

2015: The next step

Launch of Lightswing® Twin
On customer demand.

Cover plates + Lightswing Single Matt black

Launch of cover caps
Improving the looks by hiding functional screws.

First official office
Lightswing® moves to Emmakade in Leeuwarden.

2015: The next step

2017: National recognition

MKB award
Lightswing® named a top 25 innovative Dutch SME.

As seen on TV
Lightswing® for the first time on TV at ‘Eigen Huis & Tuin’.

2018: Growing further

Launch of the Lightswing® Matt Black and Matt White.

2018: Growing further

Launch of the Lightswing® Matt Black and Matt White.

2019: Expanding across Europe

International growth accelerates as Lightswing® becomes available in
dominant European markets, starting with Germany.

2020: Pilot at Karwei

A pilot is launched at selected Karwei stores.

2020: Pilot at Karwei

A pilot is launched at selected Karwei stores.

2021: Building momentum

Color range reduced
Colors are phased out, leaving three: black, white and stainless steel.

TV Commercials
First nationwide TV campaign.

Radio commercials
First nationwide radio campaign.

Room to grow
Our stock moves to Logicall, supporting further growth and better shipping service.

2022: Taking shape

Karwei
Country wide coverage with 75 Karwei stores.

Launch of Lightswing® 110cm
Adding a new length to the range.

More room to grow
For our growing team, at Legedyk in Leeuwarden.

2022: Taking shape

2024: FD Gazelle Award

The Dutch newspaper ‘Financieel Dagblad’ rewarded Lightswing® with a Gazelle
award, recognising its continued growth and entrepreneurial success.

2025: Moving forward

Launch of Lightswing® Zero
On customer demand, the Lightswing® Zero is launched.
A product with which you can rotate your lineair light.

Easily Accessible across Europe
By using smart technologies, Lightswing® is within one click available in more than 30 countries throughout Europe.

2025: Moving forward

2026: A new chapter

Reinventing ourselves
Time to rethink who we are, what we stand for, and refresh our brand accordingly.

Launching the new icon
IKOAN launches: a complete range of design lamp.

Dare to be bold!
To make a statement in your interior, the Lightswing® is now also available in Cobblestone and Burgundy colors.

Time to celebrate
Lightswing® exists 12,5 years!
Time to reflect on the growth and process Lightswing® went through.

Borderless ambition

While our roots are firmly planted in Leeuwarden, our vision reaches far beyond!
For 12.5 years, Dutch Design, craftsmanship and innovation have shaped everything
we create. Today, Lightswing® is available throughout Europe and continues to grow
internationally.
Driven by curiosity and ambition, we are building the next chapter of our story:
bringing thoughtful design and smart living solutions to homes worldwide.
Designed in Leeuwarden. Made for the world.

Borderless ambition

Designed in Leeuwarden. Made for the world.

Evolving from a single
product to a design brand

As Lightswing® continues to evolve, the focus stays on what matters most:
creating thoughtful solutions that make everyday living more flexible.
With new innovations, expanding international presence and a continuously
developing organisation, the next chapter of our story gets shaped.

Built on curiosity.
Driven by design.
Ready for what’s next.