Art Deco design is a stark contrast from the currently popular minimalist design trend. Art deco is bold. It started in the 1920s and quickly became a popular interior design style. It also influenced other industries like fashion, architecture and even car design. After many years, the style is making a comeback! It is all about making a statement with a glamorous and elegant feel.
Looking to incorporate this iconic style into your home? Not to worry, it doesn’t have to look like The Great Gatsby did your interior design! We are sharing the key pieces and design elements you’ll need, whether you plan to go big and bold or you just want to add a little bit of old school flair.
Definition
The predominant decorative art style of the 1920s and 1930s, characterized by precise and boldly delineated geometric shapes and strong colours and used most notably in household objects and in architecture.
Dictionary.com
Common Themes
- Leaves, branches, and feathers
- Chevron and zigzags
- Stylized animals
- Trapezoids
- Sunburst and sunrise motifs
Materials
Common materials used in art deco interior designs are: stainless steel, mirrors, chrome, glass, lacquer, inlaid wood, and unique skins such as zebra print. ‘Expensive’ materials are also very common such as: ebony, marble, and rare woods for that extra luxe look.
Colours
Contrast is the name of the game when it comes to colour. Bright and deep yellows, reds, greens, blues and pinks are both striking and bold, and mix well with silver, black and chrome.
Furniture
Look for strong streamlined furniture with no frills and ruffles. Art Deco furniture also tends to be larger in scale so don’t shy away from those oversized sideboards, armoires and chairs. Furniture made from unusual woods and chrome are always great options as well as mirrored pieces.
Fabrics
Avoid all the florals and plaids in your art deco design! Go for simpler styles. Use fabrics in solid colours or geometric designs. Again, the two key words here are bold and contrast. Try highlighting your space with solid colour cushions in contrasting colours.
Floors
Abstract designs, black and white tiles, lacquered floors and polished parquet are all common flooring options. If you love artwork for your floor (aka rugs) look for large area rugs in geometric patterns.
Lighting
Light fixtures and lamps are often made from glass or chrome. While you can still find pieces that are original to the period, there are also a lot of reproductions available on the market. Glass lighting was sometimes etched or enamelled and white and coloured tiffany style glass was common as well.
However you choose to incorporate Art Deco design into your decor, it is a fantastic way to update your home and add some interest and flair.
