In recent years, there’s been a resurgence of all things mid-century modern. And I love it! One of my favorite mid-century modern classics is the Sputnik light fixture. Its starburst shape with arms of irregular length make this chandelier a seriously one of a kind light fixture. I am DYING to get a brass sputnik for my guest bedroom and I’ve been searching Ebay like crazy. The right Sputnik (perfect size) can be hard to find!
Above is a brushed brass fixture, that was modeled after an original. This particular fixture is quite large, and has 36 lights!
What is “Sputnik” anyways? Sputnik was actually the worlds’ first artificial Earth satellite. It was launched on October 4, 1957 by the Soviet Union. Sputnik started the Space Age, which introduced an influx of all new modernized technology, furniture, and motifs in the world of interiors. Above is an artist’s rendition of the original Sputnik satellite in orbit around Earth.
Sputnik pendants come in all shapes and sizes. Some are installed closer to the ceiling, like a flush mount, while others have several suspension wires that connect at the top. Below is another version of the chandelier, but with a modern day touch.
In a recent project we’re working on, I found a fantastic vintage Sputnik inspired chandelier at White Elephant Antiques. We’re using it in our client’s master bedroom. Its black arms with silver ends really make this piece stand out. It’s truly a fabulous spin-off of the original version.
I really adore this particular fixture. I just love how its shape is more flatt, and not as spherical. It fans out over the table, and acts as a great visual focus point in this dining-
This kitchen has integrated a Sputnik chandelier over the petite grand piano to help define it as a more elegant area, separate from the working areas in the kitchen.
