Bysted was designed by Peter Bysted in 1975 and won second prize in a competition held by Louis Poulsen for outdoor lighting. The idea was to position the shades so as to create an interesting pattern on the ground. The choice of Corten steel as a material was also revolutionary at the time, and still constitutes a major component of the products identity.

Robust Cor-ten Cast Iron bollard which is protected by its naturally patinated rust color finish, providing its distinctive aesthetic. Light gently emanates through four "floating" conical iron shades. Internal clear diffuser
combined with white undersides maximized light output. The oxidation of the materials gives a rough and rusty permanent appearance. The “living” surface makes the fixture adaptable into the natural surroundings.

The fixture emits light directed downwards. The shades have a white painted undersurface to achieve optimal light reflection and produce a characteristic symmetric light pattern around the fixture.