Aaro Ceiling Lamp

“All of our lighting can travel from Jules Verne’s world to the Blade Runner world,” says Frédéric Winkler, who, along with cofounder Philippe Cater, debuted Paris-based DCW Éditions in 2008. Timelessness guides their mission, beginning with the re-edition of the 1921 Lampe Gras created by Bernard-Albin Gras. One of the first articulated lamps, it would find its way into the studios of Le Corbusier, Sonia Delaunay and Henri Matisse, and has been a standout ever since.

Nostalgia is not what animates Editions DCW, however, but rather a search for elusive and enduring offerings that span generations. Look no further than the introductions from current design leaders Bertrand Balas and architects Dominique Perrault and Gaëlle Lauriot-Prévost. Their new work share a measure of innovation and an artistic countenance that rises above the temporary vagaries of fashion. “Everyone has their own story to tell,” says Winkler of his stable of designers. “Strong characters with a deep and thick soul. That's why their lamps are interesting.”