Art Deco Style in Interior Design

Art Deco first appeared in France and is short for ‘Arts Décoratifs’ after the International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts held in Paris in 1925. Considered the epitome of glamour in the Roaring Twenties, this eclectic movement references the geometric forms of Cubism, the machine-style of Futurism, as well as its predecessor Art Nouveau. Encompassing all forms of art and craft, Art Deco style has been referenced in fashion, jewellery, textile, architecture, furniture and interior design itself. In this blog, we share the hallmarks of Art Deco design and how we have incorporated this bold and opulent style in our luxury residences.

'Art Deco is characterised by its use of rich colours, bold geometry and opulent finishes.'

Art Deco is one of the most instantly recognisable styles, and is characterised by its use of rich colours, bold geometry and opulent finishes. Drawing on inspiration from the natural world as well as advances in modern technology, Art Deco features twisting vines and flower petals in striking contrast with symmetrical and linear designs, that reflect the streamlined forms of a modern city.

Iconic buildings such as New York’s Chrysler Building and the Rockefeller Centre are referenced in Art Deco motifs through jagged, stepped or pointed edges that are reminiscent of towering skyscrapers. Likewise the metallic colour palette of silver, black and chrome typical to Art Deco takes inspiration from the rise of the metropolis.

Art Deco was also inspired by the Cubist art of the 1920s. Painters such as Pablo Picasso were experimenting with angles and geometry and this fragmented quality is what sets aside Art Deco from the more ornate and decorative designs of Art Nouveau. Art Deco motifs often have a strong and bold look, with vertical lines and angular details. Patterns such as zigzags, sunbursts, chevrons and stepped forms can be used throughout an interior design scheme, from floor and wall coverings to textiles and upholstery.

Our Belgravia Townhouse master ensuite makes a subtle nod to Art Deco design in the form of the double vanity sinks which feature eye-catching matte gold faucetry adorned with Lalique crystal detailing. This iconic raisin motif was originally created by René Lalique in 1928 to decorate the interiors of the Orient Express and reflects the geometric lines and opulent finishes often associated with Art Deco.

'High-shine surfaces, subdued lighting and mirrored surfaces all reflect the inherent luxuriousness of Art Deco'.

Another major influence on this style was the glamour of the silver green. High-shine surfaces, subdued lighting and mirrored surfaces all reflect the inherent luxuriousness of Art Deco. The opulence of this style was a reaction against the austerity of World War I and popularised lavish materials such as silver, crystal, ivory, jade, mother of pearl and lacquer, along with more rare finishes such as horn and exotic skins and woods.

After the Depression, more mass-produced materials such as aluminium, stainless steel and chrome made the style more accessible and functional. Mirrored surfaces are an effective way to reference Art Deco and instantly increase the sense of light and space in a room. Our Beau House master suite features highly polished wood cabinetry, which forms a beautiful contrast against the brushed nickel finish and curved lines of the statement Giorgio Armani lamp.

Monochrome along with metallic accents in chrome, gold and silver tend to be the colours most associated with the Art Deco movement. These shades reflected the rapid industrialisation as well as the advances in technology of the time. Bold and deep jewel tones in shades such as emerald, sapphire and amethyst also have a place in Art Deco interior design and reflect the prosperity of the era. Our Marylebone Apartment features a stunning gold leaf ceiling and a statement tiered chandelier, which makes a glamorous nod to the decadent design of this style.

Art Deco is one of the most exciting decorative styles to emerge from 20^th century and continues to prove popular in interior design due to its luxurious and timeless appeal. With such strong and recognisable themes, Art Deco can be adapted to suit many interior schemes and tastes, ensuring it is a style we continue to love and reference in our luxury residences.

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