2017 Design Trends: Atomic Design

One of the hallmarks of the hugely popular Midcentury Modern lighting design trend is atomic design, which we touched on in our recent 1950s Design by Decade feature. Inspired by both the natural design of the then-recently split atom as well as the look of the infamous Soviet satellite, Sputnik, atomic design features bulbs orbiting a central nucleus. A simple concept, but one that can come to life in a variety of compelling ways.

Orb Vectors Pendant by Sonneman

The Orb Vectors Pendant from Sonneman is a very exciting Mid-Century design that brings out the energetic feeling of atoms darting through space. Available in two heights, Orb Vectors is great making a distinct statement in foyers or dining rooms and the satin black finish and clear glass globes fit in with today’s modern aesthetics. Also available from Sonneman, the Orb 10 Light Radial pendant has a sparkling chrome finish which also elicits a dynamic energy with its impressive design.

Vladimir Family by Nuevo Living

Featuring a classic Sputnik design, the Vladimir Pendant would be well-used in an upscale residential application, whether hanging in a foyer or over a dining room table, or in a commercial application like in the entrance or lounge of a contemporary hotel. Vladimir is also available in a table and floor lamp, allowing you to use this style in a variety of different applications.

Atomic Suspension by Delightfull

The Atomic Suspension takes the basics of retro atomic design and casts off in a new direction with a contemporary take. Featuring an asymmetrical composition of molecular forms, this elegant fixture is also a wonderful example of the equally popular Black and Brass design aesthetic, making this the perfect pendant for 2017.

Monorail Cirrus Float D1 Direct Lens Suspension by Edge Lighting

With Monorail Cirrus fixtures, design possibilities are almost endless – from minimalistic suspensions to large, multi-layered works of art like the one shown above. A contemporary deconstruction of the mid-century version of the Sputnik, this collection of Cirrus Suspensions are paired together to create an original statement piece all its own.

Sparta Chandelier by Hudson Valley Lighting

A fun and unique take on atomic design, the Sparta Chandelier evokes its fearsome namesake with javelins of icy, hand-poured glass. With two finishes of either aged brass or polished nickel and two different sizes you can find a place to integrate this into any residence of business.

More Atomic

Pix Sticks Tie Stix Suspension by Edge Lighting

In a similar vein to the Cirrus Monorail configuration above, Edge Lighting’s Pix Sticks Tie Stix Suspension offers a contemporary deconstruction of the Sputnik style. The arms descend from an overhead canopy rather than a central nucleus and can feature from two to nine channels for premium design flexibility. Though available in polished metal, the Maple, Walnut, Cherry, Oak, and Espresso wood varieties offer an earthy aesthetic that makes this suspension stand out.

Sputnik Pendant by Maxim Lighting

Featuring intersecting rings of polished chrome or bronze that seem to orbit a nucleus of Krypton Xenon lights, the Sputnik Pendant evokes both the intricate complexity of an atom, and the sweeping scope of a galaxy. The sleek, crisp look of the polished chrome version makes it the perfect embodiment of Atomic Design’s space themes.

Cosmo Chandelier by Delightfull

Continuing with space themes, you’d be forgiven for mistaking the Cosmo Chandelier for the world’s most elegant model solar system. Finished in gold, the Cosmo Chandelier is filled with energy and versatility, as the glossy black and white planetary shades can be rotated on two axes to cast the light of their Halogen bulbs in any direction.

Glendale Pendant by Hudson Valley

Mixing Atomic and Geometric Design, the Glendale Pendant features a sputnik-inspired starburst cluster suspended within a crisp iron black cube. It’s available in sleek polished nickel, but the stunning contrast of the black and aged brass makes it an exceptionally trendy 2017 design. It’s available in three different sizes, making it an extremely dynamic option in any space.