FontanaArte Avico Suspension Light, Extra-Large Dome Pendant, 47 or 63 in

The FontanaArte Avico suspension light is an extra-large dome pendant for hotel lobbies, restaurants, atriums, showrooms and the tallest residential rooms: a single, clean half-sphere 47.2 in or 62.9 in across that fills a big volume with one confident gesture. Three E26 lamps inside the dome throw broad, dimmable light downward over a large table or seating area, while the smooth outer shell, in matte black or white, gives the room a strong graphic shape overhead.

Quick facts

• Product: Avico suspension light
• Brand: FontanaArte, Milan, Italy
• Item number (MPN): F556180375NENU (Small, Black), F556180350BINU (Small, White), F556185375NENU (Medium, Black), F556185350BINU (Medium, White)
• Type: Hardwired extra-large dome pendant
• Best for: hotel lobbies, restaurants, atriums, showrooms, conference rooms, double-height living and dining rooms
• Diameter: Small 47.2 in (120 cm); Medium 62.9 in (160 cm)
• Dome height: Small 23.2 in (59 cm); Medium 31.1 in (79 cm)
• Cable length: 118.1 to 157.4 in (300 to 400 cm), per the maker drawing
• Light source: 3 x E26. Small up to 100W each; Medium up to 150W each (bulbs not included)
• Light/dimming: diffused light, dimmable
• Power: 110V, hardwired with a ceiling canopy
• Rating: IP20, dry indoor locations
• Materials: metal and polymer
• Finishes and sizes available: Black or White; Small or Medium
• Certification: ETL (Intertek) pending
• Designer: FontanaArte Historical Archive (2006)
• Styles: Modern, Contemporary, Minimalist

ETL (Intertek) certification for the U.S. market is in progress for this pendant.

Light quality and how it performs

Avico works like a large reflector. Three E26 sockets sit high inside the dome, and the curved inner surface gathers their light and sends it down in a wide, even pool. That makes it a true working light for a long table, a reception desk or a lounge group, not only a decorative object. The outer shell stays dark on the Black version, so the light appears to fall from a floating disc; on the White version the rim glows softly and the dome reads lighter against a pale ceiling.

With up to 300W (Small) or 450W (Medium) of total lamp capacity, Avico can light a substantial area on its own. The maker lists it as dimmable: use dimmable bulbs and a compatible dimmer so the same fixture can run bright for service or work and low for evening. FontanaArte also offers a separate bottom disc that covers the bulbs, along with silver and gold diffusers on request.

Size and placement

Over a dining or conference table. As general guidance, hang the rim of a large dome about 32 to 40 in (81 to 102 cm) above the table, a little higher than a small pendant so the wide shell does not block sight lines. The Small (47.2 in) suits a table of about 72 to 96 in; the Medium (62.9 in) suits a table of 96 in or more, or a round banquet table seating eight to ten.

In a lobby, atrium or two-storey entry. Keep at least 7 ft (213 cm) between the floor and the rim where people walk, and more in grand spaces so the dome sits within the upper volume of the room. Centre it on the space or on the furniture group it serves.

In a stairwell. Avico suits wide, open stair halls rather than narrow wells: it needs space around the rim. Hang it in the open centre, with at least 7 ft of clearance above the nearest step.

Ceiling height. Because the dome alone is 23.2 in or 31.1 in tall, plan on a ceiling of about 10 ft or more for the Small and 12 ft or more for the Medium.

Installation. Avico is hardwired to a ceiling junction box and finished with a canopy. The maker drawing shows a cable of 118.1 to 157.4 in (300 to 400 cm), shortened on site to the drop you want. Given its size, have a licensed electrician confirm the ceiling support before installing.

Where it works

Homes. In a loft, barn conversion or double-height living room, one Avico over the dining table gives the space a centre and a human-scale ceiling plane. It also works over a large kitchen table or in an open-plan studio where one fixture must light a wide area.

Commercial and hospitality. This is where Avico is most at home: hotel lobbies, restaurant dining rooms, bars, showrooms, conference rooms, reception halls and retail flagships. A row of domes gives rhythm to a long space and reads clearly through a glass facade, which makes it an effective signature light seen from the street.

Style and pairing

Avico is pure form: a plain half-sphere with no ornament. In Black it brings a bold, architectural accent to white or concrete interiors; in White it disappears into pale ceilings and lets the light take over. Both suit Modern, Contemporary and Minimalist schemes. Pair it with long timber or stone tables, upholstered banquettes, glass and steel, and keep the rest of the ceiling clean so the dome remains the focal point.

Why choose Avico

• A single fixture that lights and anchors a large space.
• Two very large sizes, 47.2 in and 62.9 in across.
• Three standard E26 sockets, dimmable, easy to relamp.
• Black for contrast or White for a lighter look.

Care

Turn off the power and let the bulbs cool. Dust the outer shell and inner surface with a soft, dry cloth or long-handled duster. For marks, use a cloth lightly dampened with water and a mild soap, then dry; avoid solvents and abrasive pads, which can mark the finish. Keep moisture away from sockets and wiring.

Frequently asked questions

What size room does Avico need? It is designed for large, tall spaces. Plan on about 10 ft of ceiling height or more for the Small (47.2 in) and 12 ft or more for the Medium (62.9 in).

How high should it hang over a table? As general guidance, hang the rim about 32 to 40 in (76 to 102 cm) above the tabletop, adjusting for the size of the table and the room.

Which size suits my table? The Small suits tables of about 72 to 96 in; the Medium suits tables of 96 in or more, or large round tables.

Black or White? Black gives a strong silhouette and works well against white or light ceilings. White blends into pale ceilings and gives a softer overall look.

What bulbs does it take? Three E26 bulbs: up to 100W each on the Small and up to 150W each on the Medium. Bulbs are not included.

Is it dimmable? Yes, with dimmable bulbs and a compatible dimmer.

Can I hide the bulbs? FontanaArte offers a separate bottom disc that covers the light sources.

How is it installed? It is hardwired to a ceiling junction box with a canopy. The cable is 118.1 to 157.4 in long per the maker drawing and is cut to length on site. Use a licensed electrician and confirm the ceiling support.

What is it made of? Metal and polymer.

Is it certified for the U.S.? ETL (Intertek) certification is pending, according to the maker.

Can it be used outdoors? No. It is rated IP20 for dry indoor locations only.

Trade & project orders

Interior designers, architects and hospitality buyers can join the MetropolitanDecor trade program for trade pricing. We also prepare quotes for multi-unit and project orders; contact us with your quantities.

Please note: Because this item is made to order or specially sourced, it is final sale.