What Is Art Deco? A Peek Into 1920’s Style Ideas
1. Art Deco Is a Reflection of the Times
2. The Difference Between Art Deco and Bauhaus
3. The Variations of Art Deco Medium
Whether in decor, architecture, art or even fashion, elements of Art Deco are universal: geometric motifs, extravagant ornamentation, and bold silhouettes. In a word, it can be summed up as avant-garde. It pushed the limits, both geometrically-speaking and metaphorically-speaking, of what was accepted aesthetically at the start of the Jazz Age. After all, Art Deco wasn’t just about glamorous colors and fun patterns. It was a lifestyle, a rosy view of the world that gave every man and woman permission to be the kings and queens of their own worlds, to celebrate life in the ‘here-and-now’ – starting with their living room decor.
Art Deco Decor
In this section, we'll cover just a few tips and ideas to get you started on creating an elegant space inspired by the style.
The Art Deco Living Room
The Art Deco living room is filled with "extras." Gold wall hangings, plush pile rugs, pillows with tassels and nesting tables (not one, not two, but three accent tables!). It's inspired by decadence, and one who enters should feel as though they are getting royal treatment. Start with a richly-hued sofa (no greys here!), such as a sofa in emerald, royal blue, ruby or gold velvet.
1920s Furniture
It's the decade of song and dance, costume and makeup, parties and romance, so make the furniture feel right at home. Opt for lots of seating, as an Art Deco home is one filled with guests! Look for velvet upholstery, metal trims and unique shapes, like curved sofas.
Art Deco Living Room Ideas
The smaller pieces in an Art Deco living room will be noticeable and beautiful, so when it comes to the decorative accents, include metal (gold, silver, etc.). Throw velvet decorative pillows on a velvet sofa, laying on a blanket (preferably velvet!) for good measure. To truly make your living room feel as Art Deco as possible, though, make sure your coffee table's got at least one unique design element, such as a metal hardware or glass top!
Modern Art Deco Living Room
Art Deco is a period of time that's gone by; while it's fun to think and read and sing about, the fact of the matter is that it's in the past. Most people make the period work for the modern eye by incorporating pieces of modern trends. If the style of a particular loveseat or lampshade is full-on Depression-era, balance it out with a modern complement, such as a minimalist end table or chrome lamp base.
Art Deco Bedroom Ideas
Since Art Deco is all about "more," you want to be careful of it in the bedroom – a space that, for sleep-inducing purposes, should be devoted to "less." Bring no more than one or two Art Deco pieces into a bedroom; since bedrooms are one of the smaller-sized rooms of the house, one or two will be more than enough to make a statement. A classic trick to make a bedroom feel all-Art Deco (without actually being all-Art Deco), is the throw pillow: choose patterned pillows of the style, such as Greek key, and layer them on a neutral bedspread and headboard for contrast!
More Art Deco Decorating Ideas
Book covers, blown up, make great wall art; in Art Deco, go for 1920s literature. (Movie posters and album sleeves also work for this purpose!) A gramophone in a corner, decorative or real, makes a head-turning statment, and framed 1920s newsprints or newspaper headlines bring the style home.
Common Questions About Art Deco Design
What are the defining characteristics of the Art Deco style?
Art Deco is renowned for its bold geometric shapes, rich ornamentation, and luxurious materials like polished metals, exotic woods, and lacquered finishes. Think sharp angles, symmetrical patterns, and a sense of glamour and sophistication that emerged in the 1920s and 1930s.
How can I incorporate Art Deco elements into a modern living space?
You can introduce Art Deco flair with statement furniture pieces featuring streamlined silhouettes and metallic accents, or through decorative items like geometric mirrors, sunburst clocks, and rich velvet upholstery. Even a bold accent wall in a deep jewel tone can evoke the era's opulent feel.
What kind of color palettes are typical for Art Deco interiors?
Art Deco often embraces a dramatic palette featuring high contrast, such as black and gold, deep blues and silvers, or emerald green with cream. Bold, saturated colors are common, often balanced with metallic sheens and sophisticated neutrals to maintain an elegant, rather than overwhelming, aesthetic.
Are there specific materials that scream "Art Deco"?
Absolutely! Look for materials like chrome, brass, stainless steel, and glass, often used in combination with dark, polished woods like ebony or mahogany. Lacquered surfaces, mirrored finishes, and luxurious textiles such as velvet and silk are also hallmarks of this glamorous design movement.
Is Art Deco a practical style for everyday living, especially with pets or children?
While Art Deco embraces luxury, it can be adapted for family life. Opt for durable fabrics with interesting textures that can hide wear and tear, and choose furniture with smoother, rounded edges where possible. Statement pieces can be focal points without compromising everyday functionality.