Why In Design column: The origin of the popular Sputnik shape in design
Sputnik, Sputnik, Sputnik
Can you say that three times quickly?
Why In Design column is back
and with details about this iconic shape...
Why In Design column is back
and with details about this iconic shape...
The Sputnik shape has recently made a resurgence in popularity, and it's a major trend today adorning everything for the home from chandeliers to desk accessories. While at Highpoint, we spotted hundreds of sputniks in our travels. This started us thinking about it, and the meaning so we
researched the origins of the popular design. Although the Sputnik trend is certainly trending now, it is not new.
photograph 1960s via NBC.news
a Soviet R-7 rocket lifts off in the Soviet Union, kicking off the space age and the fascination with the Sputnik. The launch of the Sputnik satellite in 1957 marked the beginning of our emphasis on space travel. The shape itself soon became a household name, and today it is symbolic of mid-century design. Take a look at four of our favorite Sputnik lights...
The Glendale sputnik pendant from Hudson Valley Lighting showcases the signature star burst but encased in a black, textured iron cube for a slightly different aesthetic. capsule shaped tungsten filament bulbs add a nice touch.
Anthropolgies' Dandelion is a take on a typical mid century design with crystal encrusted chandelier in a polished brass patina and a retro silhouette.
Remain's Glass Sputnik is one of the original vintage lights from the era with textured glass in a gilded finish and created by Belgian artist Val Saint Lambert.
Another beauty from Remains
is Dandelion 32. While this light may not be a quintessential sputnik entirely it has elements of the iconic shape, and, well, we love Tony Duquette. Star bursts and super novas come to mind here, as well as flowers and fields of dandelions -- it is divine!
Happy NestingXO Tamara
