Introduction
The Nelson Cigar Bubble Pendant is a lighting fixture that has become a classic of mid-century modern design. It was designed by George Nelson, a prominent American industrial designer, in the 1950s. The pendant is made up of a spherical lampshade made of a translucent plastic material that is stretched over a metal wireframe. It was an innovative design for its time, and its clean, simple lines continue to make it a popular lighting fixture today.
Background
George Nelson was the design director of the Herman Miller furniture company in the 1950s, and he was responsible for creating some of the company’s most famous designs. The Nelson Cigar Bubble Pendant was one of his most successful lighting designs. The pendant was part of a series of spherical lamps that he designed for Herman Miller, including the Ball Lamp and the Lantern Lamp.
The Nelson Cigar Bubble Pendant was designed as a solution to a common problem in lighting design at the time. Many lighting fixtures had a harsh, directional light that created harsh shadows and was not very flattering. Nelson’s design solved this problem by diffusing the light through the translucent plastic shade. The result was a soft, lustrous light that was both functional and beautiful.
Design Features
The Nelson Cigar Bubble Pendant has several design features that make it unique. The spherical shape of the lampshade is one of its defining characteristics, as it creates a soft, diffused light that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The material that the lampshade is made of also contributes to the quality of the light. The translucent plastic material allows light to pass through it while softening and diffusing it.
The metal wireframe that supports the lampshade is also an important design feature. The wireframe is designed to be unobtrusive, so that the focus is on the lampshade itself. The wireframe is also strong and sturdy, ensuring that the lampshade will not sag or deform over time.
Use in Interiors
The Nelson Cigar Bubble Pendant is a versatile lighting fixture that can be used in a variety of interior design settings. It works well in modern, minimalist interiors, where its clean, simple lines complement the overall aesthetic of the space. It can also be used in more traditional settings, where it can add a touch of classic mid-century design to the space.
The pendant is particularly effective when used in groupings. Several pendants can be arranged in a cluster, creating a dramatic and visually striking effect. This approach works well in larger spaces like lobbies or dining rooms.
