Art deco interior design emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, characterised by its bold geometric shapes, luxurious materials, and a sense of glamour and sophistication. It was a reaction to the ornate and heavily adorned styles of the past, embracing modernism and the machine age. This remains a popular interior design style, appreciated for its timeless elegance and ability to create a sense of luxury and opulence in any space.
Let's delve into the key elements of Art deco interior design, from bold patterns and materials to the importance of symmetry and lighting. So keep reading, if you want to learn more about this iconic design style and how to bring it into your home.
What is Art Deco Interior Design, and Why is it Still Popular Today?
Art deco interior design is a decorative art style that originated in France in the 1920s and flourished internationally in the 1930s and 1940s. It is famous today because of its versatility as it can be adapted to various styles and spaces, incorporated into a modern, minimalist design, or used to add glamour to a more traditional space.
Additionally, art deco remains popular because of its timeless elegance and how it seamlessly blends modern and traditional design elements. The use of rich materials, such as marble, brass, and exotic woods, gives an air of luxury, while the bold geometric shapes and streamlined design create a sense of modernity.
Key Elements of Art Deco Interior Design
The key elements of art deco interior design work together to create a sense of glamour, sophistication, and luxury. These design elements inspire interior designers today, offering a timeless aesthetic that seamlessly blends modern and traditional styles.
Art Deco Materials and Textures
Art deco interior design often incorporates luxurious and exotic materials such as marble, brass, gold, and chrome because these materials create a sense of luxury and sophistication. The texture is also important, and materials such as lacquer, shagreen, and animal prints are commonly used to add interest and depth to a space.
Colour Palette
Art deco colour schemes often include bold, contrasting colours such as black and white and jewel tones such as emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red. Metallic colours like gold and silver are also commonly used because the overall effect is a dramatic, high-contrast look that adds visual interest to a space.
Geometric Shapes and Patterns
Geometric shapes and patterns are a hallmark of art deco designs that may include stepped forms, zigzags, chevrons, and sunburst motifs. These shapes and patterns are often repeated throughout a space, creating a sense of unity and coherence.
Lighting
Lighting is an important element of art deco design. Chandeliers, wall sconces, and table lamps often create a sense of drama and glamour. These lighting fixtures often feature bold geometric shapes from luxurious glass, crystal, and metal materials.
Furniture and Decor
Art deco interior design furniture and ornamentations often feature sleek, streamlined designs, and materials such as leather, high-quality fabrics, and exotic woods are commonly used. Decorative elements such as mirrors, sculptures, and vases often add interest and depth to a space.
Art Deco Interior Design in Different Spaces
Art deco interior design can be adapted to various spaces, from private residences to commercial buildings. The use of luxurious materials, bold geometric shapes, and a high-contrast colour palette create a sense of drama and glamour characteristic of the art deco style.
Living Room
A bold and luxurious aesthetic typically characterises art deco living rooms. Using exotic materials such as marble, brass, and chrome is typical, as are rich colours and geometric patterns. Furniture in art deco living rooms` is often low-slung and streamlined, with smooth curves and clean lines. While mirror and lighting fixtures are also commonly used to create a sense of glamour and drama.
Dining Room
A sense of opulence and grandeur often characterises art deco dining rooms. Bold colours, geometric patterns, and luxurious materials are also common. Dining tables are often made from exotic woods or feature marble or glass tops. At the same time, chairs may be upholstered in plush fabrics such as velvet or silk and lighting fixtures such as chandeliers are often used to create a sense of drama and sophistication.
Bedroom
A sense of luxury and glamour typically characterises art deco bedrooms. Rich colours, geometric patterns, and luxurious materials, such as plush fabrics like velvet and silk, are common. Bed frames are often low-slung and streamlined, with clean lines and smooth curves.
Bathroom
Art deco bathrooms often feature bold geometric patterns, luxurious materials such as marble and chrome, and a high-contrast colour palette. Fixtures such as faucets and towel racks may be made from chrome or brass, while lighting fixtures are often designed to create a sense of drama and glamour. Mirrors with geometric frames and art deco-style tiles are also commonly used to create a sophisticated and elegant aesthetic.
Kitchen
Art deco kitchens typically feature sleek, streamlined designs with bold geometric shapes and a high-contrast colour palette. Materials such as marble, chrome, and glass are commonly used, and lighting fixtures such as pendant lights are often used to create a sense of glamour. Cabinets and countertops may feature geometric shapes, and bold patterns may be used on backsplashes or flooring to add visual interest to the space.
How to Mix Art Deco Elements with Contemporary Design
Incorporating art deco elements into a modern interior can add a touch of glamour and sophistication to your space. Mixing art deco and contemporary design or using DIY tips to add art deco elements allows you to create a unique and exciting space that seamlessly blends old and new styles.
Here are some tips for mixing art deco and contemporary design:
Start with a Neutral Base
Use a neutral colour palette for the walls, floors, and larger pieces of furniture to create a clean and modern backdrop.
Introduce Art Deco Elements
Add art deco elements like bold geometric patterns, luxurious materials like marble and brass, and high-contrast colour schemes through smaller decor pieces like lighting fixtures, mirrors, and textiles.
Mix and Match
Combine art deco and contemporary furniture to create an eclectic and interesting look. For example, pair a sleek, modern sofa with a vintage art deco armchair.
Use Textures
Incorporate textured materials such as shagreen, lacquer, or animal prints to add depth and interest to the space.
Focus on Lighting
Art Deco lighting fixtures, such as chandeliers or wall sconces, can be incorporated into a modern space to add drama and sophistication.
DIY Tips for Adding Art Deco Elements to a Space
If you're looking to add Art Deco elements to your space, here are some DIY tips:
Add a Statement Wall
Use bold geometric wallpaper or paint to create a dramatic focal point in the room.
Incorporate Mirrored Surfaces
Add mirrored surfaces, such as a mirrored coffee table or tray, to create a glamorous and sophisticated look.
Create a Gallery Wall
Use Art Deco-style prints, posters, or artwork to create a gallery wall that showcases the style.
Accessorise with Textiles
Add throw pillows or a rug with bold geometric patterns or animal prints to bring in art deco elements.
Refurbish Vintage Furniture
Look for vintage art deco furniture at flea markets or thrift stores and refurbish it to fit your space. You can reupholster chairs or repaint a dresser to give it an art deco look.
Conclusion: Final thoughts on art deco interior design and its timelessness
Art deco interior design is a style that has proven to be timeless, enduring over the decades and remaining a popular design style even today. This interior design is as relevant today as it was almost a century ago. Its timeless elegance and bold aesthetic continue to inspire designers and homeowners, making it a design style that will continue to be a source of inspiration for many years.