Murano Flower Sputnik - Antique vs. New

"Sputnik lighting" has been popular since the first artificial satellite was put into outer space in 1957 by the Soviet Union. The resulting fashion trend called the "Sputnik Lamp" consists of a metallic sphere with bars jutting out in multiple directions holding light bulbs or lamp globes at the end. Many designs featured Murano Glass in various shapes, however the most popular form seen was the "floral" shape.

The "Murano Flower Sputnik" light fixture above is an Italian design from the 1960's. Found on 1st Dibs from a dealer in California, this beauty runs about $4200.

Tonic Home was delighted to find the similar "Sputnik" design (shown above) in it's Floral Glass Chandelier.


With a diameter of 27.5", the glass and chrome light fixture is a fashion statement on it's own. The retro chic design is updated and gorgeous at $1350.

John Dickinson African Table

Renowned designer John Dickinson (1920-1982) created many original furniture designs with much detail and flair. Animal legged chairs and African inspired tables were among his most iconic works from the 1960's.

Dickinson's home in San Francisco (below) shows many of his eclectic pieces around the restored Victorian firehouse.
photo courtesy O at Home magazine
However the piece above, "The African Table", was his most famous design. The three-legged painted plaster table can be found on http://www.1stdibs.com/ for a mere $34,000. So if you want the real deal, it's out there.
For those of us who don't have $30K to spend on a side table, check out the Lola Side Table from Arteriors Home. Purchase for $440 (includes free shipping!) at http://www.tonichome.com/. At that price, why not get 2 of them!
If white is not your color, how about the Lola Side Table in Black?
Or fire engine red? Can't you just picture this table in a Kelly Wearstler room? Style and personality, now this is a piece that will give your decor the punch it needs.

Tommi Parzinger - Antique vs New

It's always fun to find vintage pieces from great designers such as Tommi Parzinger (1903-1972). This 4-door commode was sold recently on Ist Dibs and isn't it beautiful!

The black lacquer cabinet is a Parzinger Original (see photo below) created in the 1950's. Parzinger was a German furniture designer who studied at the Munich School of Arts and Crafts, then eventually made his way to the United States. His reputation for luxurious furniture has created an audience of eager collectors and admirers.

While finding a Parzinger Original can be difficult, often when found, the price prohibits those with style from being able to afford such an eclectic look. However, take a look below at this dynamic piece from Worlds Away.

The Studly Buffet follows the Parzinger look and gives us modern design all over again.

Seen above in a room photo, this "commode" adds a certain flair to a room, without the 1st Dibs price. Now we can all have that vintage look!