How Nuclear Became a Design Trend With Alessandra Wood

How Nuclear Became a Design Trend With Alessandra Wood

From Fissionary by NEI

March 19, 2026 · 34 min · Season 5 · Episode 6

About this episode

This episode explores how the Atomic Age influenced design and everyday objects through a conversation with design historian Alessandra Wood.

What does nuclear energy have to do with your living room? More than you might think. In this episode of Fissionary, Mary and Jordan talk with design historian Alessandra Wood about how the Atomic Age reshaped the visual language of the 20th century. From starburst clocks to Sputnik chandeliers, the shapes and symbols of atomic science made their way into furniture, architecture, and everyday objects, transforming fear of new technology into a sense of optimism about the future. Visit us at www.nei.org/fissionary . Fissionary Wants To Hear From You!  Fill out our short listener survey Music used in this episode was created by Beat Mekanik

People in this episode

Hosts: Mary, Jordan

Guest: Alessandra Wood

Topics covered

  • nuclear energy
  • design history
  • Atomic Age
  • visual language
  • furniture design
  • architecture
  • optimism

Keywords

  • nuclear energy
  • design
  • Atomic Age
  • 20th century
  • furniture
  • architecture
  • optimism
  • visual language
  • Alessandra Wood

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: NEI, Beat Mekanik

Books & works: Fissionary

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