12-05-2025
Bunnings shoppers go wild over $49 item - but not everyone's impressed
A retro-inspired $49 table lamp from Bunnings is dividing the internet - with some shoppers hailing it as a must-have piece of home decor, while others say it looks suspiciously like a giant glazed doughnut or a caramel pudding.
The Verve design Elton table and wall light, available in vibrant orange and muted green, has become the latest object of obsession among design-savvy bargain hunters.
Its distinctive doughnut-shaped silhouette and coloured glass finish tap directly into the resurging 1970s design aesthetic that's dominating Australian interiors.
But while fans say it's a stylish and affordable way to add instant character to any room, others aren't quite convinced.
'I thought it was a caramel dessert,' one shopper wrote.
'Literally looks like a Werther's Original,' said another.
A third added, 'I can't believe it's not a giant glazed doughnut.'
Despite the sweet comparisons, most agree that the lamp offers a delicious slice of retro charm at a price point too good to pass up.
Made from tinted glass, what sets it apart is its versatility, as it functions as both a table lamp and a wall light, which is a huge selling point for renters or those looking to maximise space without committing to fixed fittings.
Whether positioned on a bedside table, shelf, or mounted on a wall, the lamp casts a soft, ambient glow perfect for winding down at the end of the day.
Interior design expert Lucy Sutherland previously told FEMAIL that such lamps are right on trend, thanks to a full-blown resurgence of 1970s style in Australian homes.
'We saw a big revival of 1970s style, bringing back the bold, quirky aesthetics of that era,' she explained.
'Claret red and mustard yellow were key colours, paired with high-gloss finishes that added a sense of retro glamour.'
According to Sutherland, the new wave of '70s design is less kitsch and more curated.
Think plush velvet couches, sculptural lighting, and rich, tactile materials like chrome, gloss lacquer, and coloured glass.
'Coloured glass also made a comeback - not just in vases and accessories but in side tables, coffee tables, and more,' she said.
'It's all about combining nostalgic elements with contemporary style.'
The Verve design lamp does exactly that.
In orange, it brings a sense of warmth and whimsy - perfect for pairing with soft textiles, wooden furniture, or terrazzo tiles.
The green version, meanwhile, offers a more subtle, earthy feel, and works beautifully in boho, mid-century modern, or eclectic interiors.
'The orange is so cosy, but then the green is amazing,' one shopper wrote, unable to choose a favourite.
'I don't need any more lamps… but I want this! Off to Bunnings tomorrow,' added another.
While it's certainly drawing praise for its aesthetic value, the lamp also speaks to a broader shift in how Australians are decorating their homes.
The rising cost of living means many are turning to affordable retailers like Bunnings and Kmart for stylish, budget-friendly updates.
With housing prices soaring and fewer people moving into new spaces, the focus has shifted to refreshing interiors rather than renovating them - and lighting plays a key role.
One of the most defining elements of the current '70s revival, Sutherland noted, is its accessibility.
'Velvet was one of the first indicators of this shift - it emerged suddenly, with plush, groovy velvet couches popping up everywhere. For people who lived through the '70s, it might have been an era they never wanted to see again, but now, enough time has passed for it to feel fresh and exciting.'
For younger buyers, it's a chance to engage with design history for the first time, and items like the Verve lamp offer an entry point into the aesthetic without breaking the bank.
It's nostalgic but new, vintage but versatile.
Of course, not everyone is sold.
The unusual shape and glossy finish have sparked plenty of debate.
One user said, 'Green one is just a slightly flat apple, love it,' while another called it 'very 1970s' - though it wasn't clear if that was praise or criticism.
Regardless of how you see it - retro glam, modern minimalism with a twist, or novelty dessert - the lamp has managed to strike a chord.
And in true Bunnings fashion, it's flying off the shelves.
Whether you're a design aficionado chasing the latest trend, a renter looking for quick upgrades, or just someone who loves the idea of a lamp that looks good enough to eat, this $49 wonder might just be the sweetest home buy of the season.
