Step into the world of Art Deco decor, where the boldness and vibrancy of the 1920s come alive in your home. Picture smooth curves, striking geometric designs, and rich materials like glass and velvet, all infused with a contemporary edge.
We're unveiling the top tips for incorporating the Art Deco aesthetic into your living space beautifully and effectively.
Art Deco Decor Inspirations – Embracing the Trend
Imagine the jazz era filled with sleek cars, elegant interiors, and the glamour of travel. Let's transport ourselves back to the 1920s, a time of excitement and creativity.
These decorating inspirations will motivate you to infuse your home with the iconic Art Deco style in ten chic ways.
1. Layer Your Space with Glamorous Elements
Located in the historic Battersea Power Station in London, this apartment showcases Art Deco influences. Interior designer Natalia Miyar explains, 'We segmented the large living area into three unique functions, starting with the dining area shown here.' The champagne-hued linen wallpaper adds warmth and softness.
'We designed an Art Deco-inspired rug by Francis Bacon that reflects his style in a more linear fashion. We contrasted the palette with petrol blues, black, and gold,' she adds.
'For relaxed dining, nothing compares to an upholstered chair inspired by a 1930s design. I appreciate the balance of angular chairs alongside a curvy dining table, reminiscent of the Art Deco era with a parchment-like finish.'
Art pieces and vintage objects bring character to the room. The designer combined vintage finds with modern works, including a bowl by glass artist Edmond Byrne and a print by Cuban artist Guido Llinás.
2. Enhance with Fluted Features
Fluted surfaces are making a comeback in Art Deco kitchens, appearing on glassware, basins, backsplashes, and cabinetry.
For a grand interpretation, consider Smallbone's Icarus Collection. This design captures the lavishness of the 1920s with sculpted glass, luxurious textures, and warm hues. A brushed gold finish enhances the curved oak cabinets, allowing their subtle grain to shine.
'We achieved the unique curves using advanced materials technology typically seen in F1 racing, reinforcing and lightening the cabinet doors,' says Iain O'Mahony, Smallbone's ideation director. 'Our goal was to express boundless creativity and craftsmanship.'
3. Embrace the Terrazzo Trend
Refresh your bathroom with terrazzo, a stylish surface that adds a vibrant touch. Authentic terrazzo comes in cement or resin forms.
This Art Deco bathroom at The Siren Hotel in Detroit features a clever mix of both terrazzo types. The cement-based flooring is soft and durable, needing annual resealing, while the eye-catching basin, made from resin-based terrazzo, is colorful and easy to maintain.
4. Explore Vintage Pink Palettes
'I love using various shades of pink, from muted to vibrant,' shares Charu Gandhi, director of Elicyon. 'Pink can be striking yet romantic, providing a sense of soft glamor.' Pink room ideas pair beautifully with metals and champagne gold accents, common in Art Deco design.
For a sophisticated look, combine pink with earthy tones like warm brown and cinnamon. Other elegant companions for pink include deep blue, dark green, and hints of orange.
5. Rediscover Classic Designs
Using reclaimed wood is both eco-friendly and historically appealing. This design by Retrouvius showcases a refined approach, utilizing wood from old shelving for striking geometric doors.
'We used salvaged tropical hardwoods where the main cooking activities occur,' explains Maria Speake, founder of Retrouvius. 'This wood is water-resistant and durable, with cooking oils enhancing its natural appearance.'
6. Amp Up with Luxurious Velvet
Art Deco designs often feature symmetry and geometric shapes, contrasting the avant-garde art of the time, which challenged traditional forms.
Introduce vintage glamor with sumptuous materials. Luxurious velvet brings an updated look to furnishings, especially in rich jewel tones. These dramatic styles blend heritage with modernity. Complement hard lines with soft textures in colors like pomegranate, midnight teal, and emerald, creating a striking Art Deco feel.
7. Experiment with Proportions
Furnishing large bedrooms can be tricky, as items may appear lost in the space. Focus on a few well-sized pieces to avoid a cluttered look.
Interior designer Rebecca Hughes employed a delicate patterned wallpaper to visually bring the walls closer. An oversized bed and ottoman fill the room, while large artworks enhance the decor. 'Choose three or four statement pieces,' she advises, 'and use symmetry for a touch of grandeur.'
This classically styled room incorporates Art Deco elements, featuring bold lines from dark wood furniture and studded ottomans. Oversized artwork completes the look.
8. Use Decorative Paneling
A simple partition can visually separate spaces. Decorative glazing can subtly delineate areas without overwhelming the room.
This design by Maddux Creative features a steel frame with geometric glass panels reminiscent of Art Deco style. The panels utilize various glazing techniques, adding interest and enhancing the overall aesthetic.
9. Create a Stunning Home Bar
The opulence of the 1920s is making a comeback in modern homes.
A well-designed home bar serves as a central hub for entertaining, making it the perfect spot for lavish design. 'This return to grandeur feels refined yet comfortable, blending different styles through cohesive color palettes,' explains Marisa Gutmacher, executive design director at Samuel & Sons.
10. Combine Dynamic Elements
Zsa Zsa wallpaper in Bottle Green, Divine Savages
A bathroom should be more than functional; it's a chance to explore rich materials and exquisite decor inspired by the Art Deco era.
In smaller spaces like powder rooms, bold wallpaper patterns can shine. 'With proper care, durability is not a concern,' assures Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages. 'Tiling or painted paneling can protect against splashes, and pairing wallpaper above creates a refined aesthetic.'
'Layer patterns for a stunning effect,' suggests Dara Caponigro, creative director at Schumacher. 'Use varying scales while maintaining a common color theme for a cohesive look. Every wall can be adorned with a pattern, creating an exquisite jewel box effect that's far more engaging than plain white walls.'
What Characterizes Art Deco Style?
Art Deco is synonymous with the glamour and luxury of the early 1920s. With mass production on the rise, designers sought to enhance the look of everyday objects.
This style is a celebration of beauty, reflecting the machine age rather than handcrafted artistry. It stands in contrast to the earlier Art Nouveau movement, which focused on unique handmade pieces.
How Did Art Deco Begin?
Trends often emerge from pivotal moments. The 1925 Paris world's fair, Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, is recognized as the launchpad for the Art Deco movement.
