Anna Sandner
Product test

Looking for a particularly unique bedside lamp? Here’s your new favourite

Anna Sandner
7.10.2025
Translation: Elicia Payne
Pictures: Anna Sandner

Wondering how the handmade AstraGlass Light went from decoration to favourite bedside light? Well, she’s warm, atmospheric and sustainable.

When I first saw this glowing glass ball from the Gingko brand, I thought to myself «that’s just a pretty accessory, another piece of ‘nice’ decoration.» Ginko had sent me the product for testing purposes. The hand-painted glass and elegant wooden base on this lamp have a high-quality look – perfect for making a statement on a shelf or in a reading corner.

However, the lamp didn’t seem very useful for everyday use at first. It was nice to look at, but limited in what it could do. After a few weeks, though, the AstraGlass Light has become an indispensable favourite – as my new night light.

A glowing one-off: each sphere’s hand-painted so no two colour gradients are the same.
A glowing one-off: each sphere’s hand-painted so no two colour gradients are the same.

The AstraGlass Light globe is made and painted by hand, making each colour gradient unique. There are four versions, from «Sandstorm» to «Galaxy Breeze». It wins points for sustainability because the base is made of FSC-certified walnut wood. Plus, the combination of glass and wood looks harmonious.

Depending on the colour chosen, a distinctive mood is created.
Depending on the colour chosen, a distinctive mood is created.

Intuitive to use and pleasant brightness

The warm white of the lamp creates a nice atmosphere and has been part of my evening wind down routine for some time now. The lamp’s straightforward to operate: a short tap changes the colour, a long press adjusts the brightness in levels. With a battery life of up to 15 hours, I can also use the lamp in places without a power socket. A USB-C port makes charging convenient.

Decorative and functional: the illuminated sphere has secured a spot by my bed.
Decorative and functional: the illuminated sphere has secured a spot by my bed.

Practical everyday companion

The AstraGlass Light has now secured itself a permanent place on my bedside table. You can use the dimmed lamp as a night light or as soft lighting when reading and relaxing. They’re available in two sizes. The large version measures around 12 × 13 centimetres and weighs in at around 558 grammes, suitable as a rather powerful mood light for the bedside table or sideboard. At 8 × 9 centimetres and 248 grammes, the mini version’s much more compact and handy, so it also fits well on smaller surfaces and is suitable for having with you on the go. However, you’ll have to wipe it down from time to time, as the glass soon reveals fingerprints.

Two sizes, many possibilities: the AstraGlass Light is available in a compact mini version and a larger version for more brightness.
Two sizes, many possibilities: the AstraGlass Light is available in a compact mini version and a larger version for more brightness.

In a nutshell

An atmospheric lamp and potentially your new favourite

For me, the AstraGlass Light is no longer just a decorative gimmick, but a practical table lamp that creates a cosy ambience. It’s the result of quality manufacturing and an environmentally friendly material concept. I can get over minor weaknesses like the high-maintenance surface – for me, the lamp has become a permanent feel-good light I don’t want to be without.

Pro

  • Battery with up to 15 hours of runtime, USB-C charging
  • Touch control for colour and brightness
  • Sustainable FSC wooden base
  • Handmade, individual glass design

Contra

  • In the higher price range for a table lamp
  • Surface quickly shows fingerprints
Header image: Anna Sandner

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Science editor and biologist. I love animals and am fascinated by plants, their abilities and everything you can do with them. That's why my favourite place is always the outdoors - somewhere in nature, preferably in my wild garden.


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