I love a starburst clock in my home, in fact we have 3 currently and until recently had a lot more. At the top of the stairs we used to have a cluster of 3 which appeared as a Styling Tip in my book, but these have been replaced by an amazing wide version by Metamec. It is unusual in shape but also in colour as most tend to be gold or bronze.
We have a 1950s one in our family space and a 1960s/70s one in the lounge. The latter has been on this wall since the 1960s and was here when we moved in after we had asked for it to stay. Every so often we think of re positioning it but feel bad as it has been there for so long.
So I was really excited to be asked to review a modern version. Vita Interiors design a coloured and fun range based on the original designs by George Nelson, who created the first ball starburst clock in 1948.
George Nelson was one of the main influencers of the design movement in the 20th century. Having studied architecture at Yale during the 1920s, he went on to design classics which still influence us today. His focus was on the aesthetic as well as the practicality of modern living, creating spaces that really worked for our new houses and lifestyles. What I especially admire were his views on the quality of his designs, writing that his work should be “a permanent collection…in the sense that it will not be scrapped for each market or for each new trend.”
Vita have a range of his classic ball clock, but I chose a starburst one to match our others. However, as it is based on a vintage design, I chose something that is obviously not a copy. The red starburst clock works so well in our children’s play room, as the whole space is filled with bright colours with 1960s touches such as the mushroom light, the floral curtains and the waste paper bin.
The actual clock is great with one battery to operate (which comes with the clock). It also comes in multi coloured, orange and blue as well as different wood effects. And it is a good price too at only £49.95. I actually think they need more on this wall and may add some more vintage clocks, of differing sizes, shapes and colours.
They now have a starburst like mummy and daddy, as well as being able to see when it is bed time (which of course they mostly ignore!)
Kate x
p.s. Want to find out more about my children’s vintage playroom? Have a look at this archived blog post.
