The iconic Sputnik design was originally envisioned by the Italian lighting maestro, Gino Sarfatti, in the late 1930s, a remarkable two decades before the historic launch of the Sputnik satellite. This captivating design surged in popularity during the 1950s to 1970s when it drew inspiration from Sputnik 1, the pioneering artificial earth satellite. Sputnik 1, comparable in size to a basketball, was propelled into orbit by the Soviet Union on October 4th, 1957, marking a significant milestone in the Cold War’s ‘Space Race’. It’s fascinating that ‘Sputnik’, originally meaning ‘fellow traveller’, has evolved to become synonymous with the word ‘satellite’ in modern Russian.
The iconic designs mentioned have been a popular choice for interior decorating. They feature mid-century aesthetics and a timeless style that creates a nostalgic look for modern and contemporary decors. From classic Sputnik style chandeliers to geometric style pendants, flush and semi-flush fittings, the space obsession wasn’t just for the science geeks; it influenced interior designers around the world and became a celebrated style that has graced our homes from the Atomic age to the present day.
The unique designs of these lighting fixtures create eye-catching centrepieces. They feature a central globe with radiating arms or spokes that give a starburst effect. Each arm holds a light bulb, mimicking its namesake. These fixtures come in metallic finishes such as chrome, gold, brass, or black, making them versatile for different interior styles, whether modern, contemporary, or eclectic. You have a choice of different designs, such as the classic Sputnik-shaped Edit Wassily 9-light pendant in striking black, perfect for a bedroom. Alternatively, you can go with the elegant Dar Bombazine 7-light pendant, which adds an art deco vibe. For a more industrial look over your dining table, consider the Luxia Thane 6-light pendant, or choose the Edit Orbit 6-arm pendant in black, white, and gold to add a modern touch to your living room.
When choosing the perfect Sputnik light fitting, consider your room size, ceiling height, existing colour schemes, and the type of bulbs to use. Many of our chandeliers and pendants are adjustable at the point of installation, allowing you to customise them according to your needs. The standard sizing for a chandelier in your dining room is typically ½ to ¾ the size of your table, unless you want to make a bold statement. Our Luxia Atom 9 light chandelier in copper and smoked glass, Equinox 12 light chandelier in chrome, and the Edit Balts 6 light pendant in striking black with white glass globe shades are perfect for creating a dramatic look in your entrance hall, dining table, kitchen island, or breakfast bar. For rooms with lower ceilings, you can still achieve a striking look with our semi-flush styles. The Luxia Elements 4 light fitting in antique brass and the Edit Moonlight 6 light fitting in polished gold will complement any home décor scheme and add a wow factor to your home.
If you’re aiming for a retro look, consider our LED decorative vintage filament bulbs. They are available in a variety of styles, including globes, squirrel cage, tubular, and the classic Edison GLS bulb. Mix and match these bulbs to create a unique and eclectic look for your home. Opt for a soft warm white colour to add warmth and a cosy ambiance. When connected to a dimmer switch, these bulbs can provide ambient lighting for a romantic dinner date, a relaxed evening watching TV, or a lively dinner party with friends.
For an exceptional look in your home, consider the Sputnik. This lighting fixture encompasses designs from mid-century modern, futuristic, elegant, contemporary, art deco, and more, adding a stylish burst of light to your space.”