The History of the Flos 2097: A Design Icon That Changed the Chandelier Forever

Few lighting designs have achieved true icon status. Even fewer remain as relevant today as they were over half a century ago. The Flos 2097 is one of those rare pieces.

Originally designed in 1958 by legendary Italian designer Gino Sarfatti, the 2097 challenged every convention of what a chandelier should be. At a time when chandeliers were associated with ornate crystal, decorative embellishments and traditional craftsmanship, Sarfatti stripped the concept back to its very essence. The result was a bold, architectural masterpiece that continues to define luxury interiors around the world.

Today, more than 65 years later, the Flos 2097 remains one of the most recognised and celebrated designer lighting pieces ever created.

A Revolutionary Vision

Born in Venice, Gino Sarfatti understood the history of the classic Venetian chandelier better than most. Rather than replicate its elaborate beauty, he questioned what made it iconic in the first place.

His answer was surprisingly simple.

Instead of hiding the structure beneath glass, crystal and ornamentation, he celebrated it. The central steel column, exposed wiring and slender arms became the design itself. Every cable, connection and light source was intentionally visible, transforming engineering into art.

It was a revolutionary approach that completely redefined the chandelier for the modern age. (Flos)

The Birth of the 2097

The 2097 was originally designed for Arteluce, the pioneering lighting company founded by Sarfatti in 1939. Arteluce became a creative laboratory where he experimented with new materials, technologies and forms, ultimately producing hundreds of innovative lighting designs throughout his career.

When Flos acquired Arteluce in 1973, they inherited Sarfatti’s remarkable catalogue, ensuring that the 2097 would continue to be manufactured to the highest standards while introducing it to a global audience. (Flos)

Industrial Meets Elegant

What makes the Flos 2097 so fascinating is its ability to balance opposing ideas.

It is industrial, yet elegant.

Minimalist, yet dramatic.

Technical, yet incredibly decorative.

Rather than disguising electrical components, the exposed wiring flows gracefully through the structure, becoming part of the visual composition. The evenly spaced light sources create an almost sculptural constellation that appears delicate despite its impressive scale.

The result is a chandelier that feels equally at home in a contemporary penthouse, a luxury hotel, a heritage property or a modern architectural residence.

An Icon That Has Never Gone Out of Style

Many lighting designs reflect the era in which they were created.

The 2097 transcends it.

Since its introduction in 1958, architects and interior designers have continued specifying the fixture for prestigious residential and commercial projects across the globe. Its timeless proportions and honest construction allow it to complement almost any architectural language.

Over the years, Flos has expanded the collection with multiple sizes, including 18, 30, 50 and, more recently, a spectacular 75-light version. Finishes now include chrome, brass, matte black and an elegant all-white edition, while preserving Sarfatti’s original design philosophy.

More Than a Light Fixture

The Flos 2097 is often described as functional sculpture.

Whether suspended above a dining table, positioned within a double-volume entrance or showcased in a luxury hospitality space, it immediately becomes the focal point of the room.

Its beauty lies not only in its illumination but in its structure. Even when switched off, the intricate arrangement of arms and cables creates an architectural statement that few lighting pieces can match.

Why Designers Continue to Choose the 2097

More than six decades after its creation, the 2097 remains one of the world’s most specified designer chandeliers because it offers something few products achieve:

• Timeless Italian design

• Exceptional craftsmanship

• Architectural presence

• Flexibility across classic and contemporary interiors

• Proven design heritage

It represents the perfect intersection between engineering and artistry—qualities that continue to define exceptional lighting design today.

Discover Iconic Designer Lighting at Cobinlight

At Cobinlight, we believe great lighting should do more than illuminate a space—it should elevate architecture, enhance interiors and become part of the story of a project.

As suppliers of the world’s leading architectural and decorative lighting brands, we help architects, interior designers and homeowners discover timeless pieces that stand the test of time.

The Flos 2097 is more than a chandelier. It is a milestone in design history and a reminder that the simplest ideas are often the most enduring.

Whether you’re creating a luxury residence, boutique hospitality project or statement commercial interior, iconic lighting has the power to transform the way a space is experienced.