Flos Starck: The Iconic Lighting Designs of Philippe Starck

Introduction

Flos Starck is a brand that is synonymous with iconic lighting designs. The man behind the brand is Philippe Starck, a renowned French designer known for his innovative and imaginative designs. Since launching the brand in 1998, Starck and his team have created a range of lighting fixtures that are both functional and artistic. This article will explore the history of Flos Starck and highlight some of the brand’s most significant lighting designs.

The History of Flos Starck

Flos Starck was founded in 1998 as a partnership between Philippe Starck and the Italian lighting manufacturer Flos. Together, they sought to create a range of lighting fixtures that would push the boundaries of design and functionality. The first product to bear the Flos Starck name was the “Gun Lamp,” a table lamp that featured a realistic-looking gun as its stand. The lamp was controversial but also highly sought after, and it helped to establish the brand’s reputation for daring and unconventional designs.

Over the years, Flos Starck has continued to create innovative lighting fixtures that blur the line between art and design. Many of the brand’s products are now considered to be design classics and are featured in museums and galleries around the world.

Iconic Designs

Taraxacum 88

One of Flos Starck’s most famous designs is the Taraxacum 88. This is a chandelier that is composed of 60 “flowers,” each with its own light bulb. The design resembles a dandelion head and is made from a series of concentric circles that radiate outwards. The Taraxacum 88 was first created in 1988 and is still in production today.

Zeppelin

Another famous Flos Starck design is the Zeppelin, a suspension lamp that resembles a floating blimp. The Zeppelin is made from a series of white, heat-formed polymer internal hoops that are encased in a cocoon-like structure. The lamp is suspended from the ceiling by three steel cables and is available in a range of sizes.

Miss K

Another popular Flos Starck design is the Miss K, a table lamp that features a distinctive clear polycarbonate shade that is partially frosted. The lamp is available in a variety of colors and features an integrated dimmer switch that allows the user to adjust the brightness of the light.