What Is Art Deco?
It is a shortening of French “art décoratif” or literally “decorative art.” The style originated in France and quickly spread throughout Western Europe and the US. The trend was formed as a response to the asceticism and restrictions of the first world war, manifesting itself in architecture, sculpture, interior design, clothing, furniture and paintings.
The style officially appeared at The International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts held in Paris in 1925. This influential exhibition featured Art Deco interiors representing modernism turned into fashion.
It was a drive to the future and a feeling of freedom that dominated in the roaring twenties. Its effect could be seen everywhere, changing the appearance of everything from plastic radios to trendy evening clothing and the skylines of cities from New York to Shanghai. The new aesthetics became the style of pleasure palaces of that time—hotels, cinemas, cocktail bars and nightclubs.
Elements of Art Deco
In essence, it is not just a single style but a mosaic of diverse, often opposing, styles coming together to produce something incredibly novel and exciting at the time. Considering the influence of the Industrial Revolution, the style reflects the admiration of technological progress and the inherent design features of manufactured products, i.e., planarity, symmetry and constant repetition of elements.
This style applies rectangular and blocky forms broken up by curved ornamental elements. It is typically characterized by bold geometric lines, layered shapes and ethnic patterns of Africa and Asia and expensive materials (e.g., mahogany, natural stone, silver, aluminum, crocodile skin, ivory, etc.).
7 Ways to Add Art Deco Interior Design Style to Your Home
This style can easily fill your 21st-century space with the dazzling and glamorous atmosphere of the Golden Twenties. If you want to make your place so exquisite that Gatsby would have wanted to host his party there, just follow the tips below. We also know that you’d want to try out any design suggestion in the list first, to check how it is going to look in your home, and that’s something special software can help you with.
Work With the Walls
They must be monophonic with an ornament or a geometric pattern. They are not aimed to draw attention but serve only as a background to complement luxury. Mirrors of stunning colors and shapes are important stylistic elements of Art Deco and will add an exquisite aesthetic to your interior.
Choose the Right Flooring
Glossy parquet or dazzling stone tiles will create inner harmony. You should not forget about details with a zebra print, which is one of the symbols of the Art Deco flow.
Decorate the Ceiling
A high ceiling decorated with a variety of elements and expensive finishing materials is one of the key features of Art Deco.
Introduce Some Fancy Lighting
Massive chandeliers, table lamps and sconces made of steel, chrome or polished bronze will definitely bring an air of elegance to your room.
Give Preference to Soft Furnishings
Features of these furnishings are modern, glamorous and comfortable. Choose velvet, velour or leather sofas, armchairs and ottomans with lacquered elements.
Create a Stylish Bathroom
A classic vanity will bring your bathroom decor back in time. Look for basins and baths with angular shapes, and choose taps and metal elements in shiny metallic colors. A massive lamp and mirrors will also add glitz and elegance.
Get Vintage Decor
Collectible, exclusive and rare items will favorably emphasize the refined taste and status of the owner. A vintage typewriter or vinyl record player would be a perfect choice. You can also add carved wooden wine cabinets and dressing and coffee tables.
To Sum Up
Art Deco is more than just strong vertical lines, simple shapes and geometric motifs. If you look deeply, you can see how this exquisite style was influenced by various sources, including art from Africa and Ancient Egypt and archaic Greek art.
Today, this style is more popular than ever. Not only is it used in interior design but also in art, architecture and jewelry. A lot of people use it to integrate a historical era into the present day. If you want to try out this style in your house or apartment with minimal effort, Live Home 3D can be a helpful tool for you. Surrounded by original items and exquisite decor elements, you will definitely feel the spirit of the Roaring ‘20s.