Greta M Grossman
One of the few iconic female designers of mid-century design, Greta M Grossman had a prolific career spanning two continents. Born and raised in Sweden, Greta moved to Los Angeles in 1940 following her marriage to jazz singer Billy Grossman. Continuing on from her work in Europe, she opened a shop on Rodeo Drive that ultimately placed her at the centre of the mid-century West Coast design scene. Credited for bringing Scandinavian modernism to the stars, Greta gained a host of celebrity clients, including Ingrid Bergman, Frank Sinatra and Greta Garbo.
An accomplished designer, architect, and university professor, Greta’s timeless and popular designs disappeared from the design landscape shortly after her retirement in 1966. The tides have thankfully now turned however as Danish design brand, GUBI has recently reissued a number of her most celebrated and accomplished designs to bring her impressive work back into the 21st century consciousness.
Design Portfolio
Gråshoppa Table Lamp
First produced in 1947, Greta M Grossman’s Gråshoppa table lamp has an iconic silhouette that still inspires to this day. The distinctive, conical, powder-coated shade is strikingly combined with an angled tubular brass stand that is reminiscent of the angled legs of a grasshopper. This angled feature allows the conical shade to be moved to direct the light to suit one’s needs while providing minimal glare. Available in an enticing range of colours, this exquisite table lamp is sure to enhance any modern home.
Cobra Table Light
Winner of the Good Design Award in the 1950s, the Cobra table light is one of the most renowned designs by Greta M Grossman. Featuring a distinct oval lampshade reminiscent of a cobra’s neck, the light is supported by a flexible tubular arm that can be rotated 360 degrees allowing the user to truly angle the light to support their needs. The lampshade and base are constructed from powder-coated steel, and are available in a choice of classic colours to suit every style aesthetic.
62 Desk
Declared to be ahead of its time, the 62 is an exceptional desk enhanced by the use of exceptional materials. Structurally lightweight and aesthetically elegant, the desk is made from warm American Walnut veneer with a high-gloss black laminated cabinet and tabletop, and sits upon slender powder-coated steel legs featuring Grossman’s trademark wooden feet. The cabinet conceals three functional drawers perfect for providing ample storage. Exquisitely vintage-inspired, the 62 desk is the ultimate statement piece.