Flos, one of the world’s leading lighting design companies, has brought back its iconic Snoopy Lamp as part of its “Flos Snoopy Occasion” collection. Designed by Italian architect and founder of Flos, Achille Castiglioni, the Snoopy Lamp was inspired by the beloved comic strip character, created by late American cartoonist, Charles M. Schulz. This article explores the story behind the making of the Snoopy Lamp and its continued influence on design and pop culture.
The Making of the Snoopy Lamp
Achille Castiglioni was known for his playful and innovative lighting designs that often incorporated everyday objects. In 1967, he was commissioned by Flos to create a lamp that could be used on a writing desk, and he immediately thought of Schulz’s Snoopy character as his inspiration.
Castiglioni was drawn to Snoopy’s character and its symbolic representation of American culture. He also appreciated the simplicity of the character’s design and sought to incorporate that same simplicity into his own lamp’s design. He believed that the best designs were those that conveyed a clear message with the simplest possible form.
The result was the Snoopy Lamp, a sleek and minimalist design that embodied the playful spirit of the beloved comic strip character. The lamp features a large, round shade that sits atop a thin stem, which is held up by a weighted black metal base. The shade is made of powder-coated aluminum and is available in black, white, or a limited-edition anniversary red.
The Snoopy Lamp’s Continued Influence on Design
The Snoopy Lamp has become an iconic design piece and has influenced countless designers over the years. Its simple and playful design has proven to be timeless and versatile, making it a popular choice for a variety of interior design styles.
One of the key elements that have made the Snoopy Lamp so enduring is its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and playfulness. The lamp’s connection to Schulz’s beloved character and the comic strip world he created has made it a favorite among pop culture enthusiasts.
The Snoopy Lamp has also become a popular choice for Hollywood film sets and has appeared in films such as “Sleepless in Seattle” and “The Devil Wears Prada.” Its distinct shape and classic design have made it a recognizable fixture in the world of movies and television.
The Flos Snoopy Occasion Collection
To celebrate the Snoopy Lamp’s enduring influence on design and pop culture, Flos has released a special collection called “Flos Snoopy Occasion.” The collection features the classic Snoopy Lamp as well as other Flos designs that celebrate the playfulness and wit that have characterized Flos’ lighting designs over the years.
The “Flos Snoopy Occasion” collection includes a limited-edition anniversary version of the Snoopy Lamp in red, as well as other designs like the Gatto Lamp, the 2097/50 Chandelier, and the Clessidra Wall Lamp.
Flos’ Snoopy Lamp has become a design icon, thanks to Achille Castiglioni’s playful and innovative take on Charles Schulz’s beloved character. The lamp’s simplicity, versatility, and sense of nostalgia have made it a favorite among designers and pop culture enthusiasts alike. With the recent release of the “Flos Snoopy Occasion” collection, the Snoopy Lamp’s influence on design and pop culture is likely to continue for many years to come.
