Designers at Nest: Gino Sarfatti

A twice winner of the Compasso D’Oro for excellence in industrial design, we’re putting the spotlight on a designer who you might not have heard of – but who definitely deserves the attention.

Who is Gino Sarfatti?

Unlike a lot of lighting designers at the time, who came from backgrounds in either art or architecture, Gino Sarfatti was first and foremost an engineer.

Born in Venice in 1912, he originally trained in the aeronautical industry before having to drop out of university when the family business fell on hard times.

After moving to Milan and taking a job as a salesman, Gino Sarfatti’s encounter with lighting design began. When asked by a family friend to turn their vase into a light fitting, his curiosity was sparked.

Only a few years later in 1939, Sarfatti formed Arteluce, the iconic Italian lighting company that was later bought by Flos. Specialising in sculptural, architectural lighting, Arteluce became a creative hub for leading Italian designers and architects of the time, producing hundreds of designs that helped to shape contemporary lighting as we know it.

Unfortunately, 1939 also bought with it the beginning of the Second World War. Due to their Jewish heritage, Gino Sarfatti and his family were forced to flee Milan for Switzerland in 1943 to escape the fascist regime in Italy at the time. It wasn’t until 1945 that Sarfatti returned to Milan and took charge of Arteluce once again.

A legacy of light

Between the 1930s and 1970s when he retired, Gino Sarfatti created over 600 floor lamps, pendant lights, table lamps, spotlights and chandeliers with Arteluce. A designer that was constantly experimenting, Sarfatti developed new products using innovative materials, technologies and production techniques. His dedication to innovation has meant his products have really stood the test of time, looking as fresh today as when they were first designed.

It seems that Gino’s enthusiasm for lighting design really captured the attention of those surrounding him too, especially his son. A family with great design embedded in their genes, Riccardo Sarfatti went on to found lighting company Luceplan, and his grandson Alessandro is currently making waves in the world of lighting with his own brand, Astep.

Astep

Reuniting Gino Sarfatti’s designs with his family - Gino Sarfatti’s grandson Alessandro and his company Astep have revived some of the designers most iconic lighting designs.

Astep have updated Gino Sarfatti’s masterpieces for the modern-day, combining his classic designs with cutting-edge LED technology.

The collection

Numbered rather than named, the Sarfatti collection comprises of table lamps, wall lights and statement pendants with a distinctive style.

One of Sarfatti’s most distinctive designs, the Model 2065 Suspension Light is a beautiful, contemporary piece with bold, graphical style. Consisting of two joined opalescent saucers, suspended from the ceiling with an aluminium canopy – this light has a chameleon-like design that can adapt to almost any setting.

For a huge injection of character – the mesmerising Model 2109 Suspension Light features a circle of luminous, opaline spheres, suspended in an aluminium ring. Taking inspiration from the moon, this statement chandelier is sure to take centre stage in your spaces.

A balancing act of luxurious materials the Model 537 Table Lamp, features a large aluminium reflector mounted on a white marble base. With the polished brass stem morphing into a practical handle – this ingenious lamp can be easily moved around your home. Discover the full collection of Gino Sarfatti’s designs here.

Where can I buy authentic Gino Sarfatti designs?

Gino Sarfatti’s lighting designs can be found and purchased at Nest. You can find them on our Gino Sarfatti designer page or alternatively, you can give us a call on 0114 243 3000.

If you’re on the lookout for some new lighting for your home and are in need of a little guidance, then why not browse our Lighting Buying Guide? It’s full of expert hints and tips to help you create the perfect highlights in your home.