Art Deco design represents modernism and fashion. It suits an individual who likes to be a little bit different, enjoys colours and has a bit of an edge.

The intention behind Art Deco is to create a sleek and anti-traditional elegance that symbolised wealth and sophistication.

WHERE DID ART DECO COME FROM?  

Art Deco can be traced back to the early 1920s as the mood during this time was optimistic and the future seemed bright. World War I was over and the economy was booming. The Roaring Twenties emerged and it was fun and exciting. It screamed luxury and a sense of freedom and hopefulness. This then opened up into the Machine Age, technology was rapidly improving everyone’s quality of life. Things began to get easier and work was less labour intensive. The radio, printing press and transportation were all invented. The world’s first Art Deco style skyscraper was built, the Chrysler and still stands proudly today in New York City.

WHAT IS ART DECO INTERIOR DESIGN?

Art Deco is characterised by geometric patterns in architecture and interior, such as iron doors, windows, wall coverings and materials.

WHAT INFLUENCED ART DECO?

Art Deco emerged from Modernity, Technology and Luxury & Leisure in the 1920s.

Cultural history was made in Egypt in this decade by British archaeologist Howard Carter, who discovered Tutankhamun's tomb located in the Valley of the Kings in Luxor. This sparked the phenomenon of Egyptomania and it influenced everything from jewellery to architecture to furniture. We began to see a lot of mahogany furniture and gold accents.

The 'look' of Art Deco is often difficult to describe, as it is an eclectic mix of styles, however it has the "you know it when you see it" quality about it. It best known for its opulence and extravagance.

IS ART DECO AND HOLLYWOOD REGENCY THE SAME THING?

Kinda, is the answer to that.

Art Deco and Hollywood Regency gained popularity at the same time and have been linked ever since.  Think of Hollywood Regency as Art Deco with softer edges. It’s what you’ll lean more into if you want some Art Deco influence in your home as Hollywood Regency is a modern way of achieving this look.

ART DECO ELEMENTS

Art Deco is most commonly associated with a sleek aesthetic, symmetrical geometric shapes and bold bright colours like yellow. Furniture and materials are embellished with zigzag patterns, sunbursts and chevrons. Steel, glass and lacquered wood are used to achieve that sleek, modern look.

HOLLYWOOD REGENCY ELEMENTS

Hollywood Regency is best known by the bold use of colour and the contrast between metallic items, glass and mirror accents. These items are there to signify both comfort and prosperity.

It’s were glam and wealth combine which does make it similar to Art Deco but Hollywood Regency is a much more eclectic and ornamented in style. This makes it easier to achieve and add to today’s interiors.

HOW TO GET THIS INTERIOR STYLE?

The easiest way to get this look is to pair it with modern furniture and colours. Geometric patterns are a great way to add this style to your room. You can add these patterns to areas like a rug, wood flooring and furniture without it feeling over the top. Modern art in bright colours are another great way to add a pop of colour without overtaking a room.

5 ELEMENTS FOR ACHIEVING THIS INTERIOR STYLE

1. Mid-century modern furniture accented in gold or silver.

2. White and mahogany lacquer furniture or a lacquer accent wall.

3. Strong geometric patterns (like on a rug, wallpaper and flooring).

4. The use of mirrors (either plain or aged mirror, aged mirror around a fireplace looks amazing in this style).

5. Bold colours used sparingly and it’s best to keep to the same colour family. (Colour families are divisions off the colour wheel. They are 3 categories: warm colours, cool colours and neutral colours. Pick one family colour and stick to it. Otherwise, you’re in danger of a massive headache every time you walk into the room).

Here are a few furniture items to help you achieve an Art Deco interior style.

CLICK LINK 1

CLICK LINK 2

Enjoy and have fun designing.