Sputnik Chandeliers: Space-Age Style at Home
This space-inspired light fixture can complement any design, from retro to playful
Sputnik's launch was in 1957, but its influence on the "Atomic Age" of design through the 1960s and beyond is impressive. One item we still see today is called the Sputnik chandelier, a mid-century modern light fixture that boasts many arms, each extending to support a single light bulb. This fixture has become a favorite for designers in many applications.
The Sputnik has become an iconic design, and as such can be mixed with any other classic design pieces from any era. Here, it's in complete harmony with a mid 1950s Saarinen tulip base table and post -modern Phillipe Starck Louis Ghost chairs. Adding mirrors to reflect and the tiny light fixtures makes the Sputnik feel even more impressive.
The Sputnik works in the most modern and minimalist of rooms as well. It adds just the right amount of frill without being frilly. I would have gone a little bigger here, given the ceiling heights of the room, but the style is right.
A Sputnik can look daring with a dark painted ceiling. The trellis graphic wallpaper and black ceiling are the last things I would expect to be paired with a Sputnik light, but the effect is urban, chic and contemporary.
A brass-toned Sputnik combined with luxurious textures such as velvet and sheepskin and accented with golden brown color tones is feminine and rich.
A silver-toned Sputnik with other silver and gray accents can feel cool and composed.
A recent version of the Sputnik chandelier is more organic. This version is called the Bubble chandelier and it is becoming more and more popular.
Contemporary Chandeliers
Here's the newer bubble version.
Does a Sputnik light up your nights? Tell us below!
Browse: Find more Sputnik-inspired accessories
More: The Oly Studio Meri Drum Chandelier
Does a Sputnik light up your nights? Tell us below!
Browse: Find more Sputnik-inspired accessories
More: The Oly Studio Meri Drum Chandelier