A design style that emerged in the early 20th century, Art Deco remains a symbol of sophistication, glamour and luxury. Known for their bold geometric shapes, opulent materials and clean lines, Art Deco interiors exude an atmosphere of timeless elegance that still feels modern and relevant today. If you want to infuse your home with this iconic style, there are plenty of ways to incorporate Art Deco elements while creating a space that feels both chic and functional. From furniture and colour palettes to lighting and accessories, here’s how to incorporate Art Deco design into your interiors.
Art Deco is all about balance – combining luxurious materials with streamlined designs and geometric patterns with rich textures. When you begin decorating in the Art Deco style, it’s important to understand its key elements and how they work together to create a cohesive and striking aesthetic.
Start by incorporating Art Deco’s iconic color schemes. The style includes rich, vibrant tones like gold, black, silver, and deep jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red. You can use these colors in accent walls, upholstery, or even flooring to evoke the luxury and drama of the era. For a more modern twist, you can incorporate metallic finishes like gold, chrome, or brass on light fixtures, mirrors, and furniture, which were an integral part of Art Deco interior design.
Furniture plays a central role in an Art Deco-inspired space. Think bold, clean lines and geometric shapes in pieces large and small. Furniture from this era often combined rich wood with metal details and glass elements, conveying a sense of glamour and modernity. A typical Art Deco element is the use of lacquered or glossy finishes that enhance the elegance of the room.
For example, a sleek and luxurious velvet sofa in a deep jewel tone can instantly transform a living room. Pair it with geometric patterned pillows and a glass coffee table with metallic accents for a look that oozes sophistication. When choosing armchairs or side tables, look for angular shapes such as sharp, clean lines and bold curves that highlight the style’s distinct geometric appeal.
Lighting in an Art Deco home is not only functional, but also serves as a major statement piece. Pendant lights, wall sconces and chandeliers from this period often feature bold, symmetrical designs and materials such as glass, chrome and crystal. Consider a large chandelier with geometric glass shades or an elegant Art Deco style floor lamp to add both lighting and a focal point to your space. The use of mirrored and reflective surfaces in light fixtures is a hallmark of Art Deco, creating an atmosphere that shines and shimmers, much like the glamorous style of the era.
Mirrors and reflective surfaces are also essential in Art Deco interiors. Mirrors were not only practical, but also a way to enhance the space, reflect light and add depth. Opt for oversized, eye-catching mirrors with bold geometric shapes, such as sunray patterns or angular frames. These mirrors add visual interest while also adding to the opulence of the space.
One of the most striking features of Art Deco design is the emphasis on luxurious materials. Materials such as marble, lacquered wood, chrome, glass and exotic woods such as ebony or rosewood were commonly used. Marble can be used in countertops, flooring or even in decorative elements such as sculptures or tables. Combine marble with gold or silver accents for a true Art Deco effect. Exotic woods add warmth and richness to the space and can be incorporated into cabinets or small furniture pieces.
When choosing flooring, consider luxurious materials like polished wood, glossy tiles, or even carpets with geometric patterns. Art Deco often embraced intricate patterns and symmetry, so a floor design with angles, herringbone, or bold geometric shapes can fit well with this aesthetic. Marble and terrazzo are also excellent options and offer both beauty and durability.
Textiles are another key feature of Art Deco interiors. Luxurious fabrics such as velvet, silk and satin should be chosen for their ability to convey wealth. When choosing upholstery, consider furniture with velvet cushions or leather seats in deep, vibrant hues. Window treatments also play an important role in this style: heavy drapes made from rich fabrics such as velvet or silk, often combined with metallic tassels or embellishments, evoke the drama of the Art Deco period.
Wall decorations are another great way to enhance the Art Deco look. Use textured wallpaper with geometric patterns or metallic finishes for a striking visual effect. Walls can be adorned with bold, symmetrical patterns such as zigzag, chevron or fan motifs. In addition to wallpaper, consider decorative wall panels made from lacquer or metal to add an extra layer of luxury and sophistication.
Accessories are the finishing touches that bring the Art Deco design to life. Accents such as sculptural vases, glass or metal sculptures, and artwork with bold, geometric shapes are key to creating the right atmosphere. When choosing artwork, focus on abstract or stylized depictions of nature, the human form, or animals. Frames should be sleek and modern, often in black, gold, or chrome to enhance the overall aesthetic.
An Art Deco-inspired home is also characterized by its simple, angular lines. This style was a reaction to the ornate and overly decorative designs of previous eras. Clean, streamlined designs and angular shapes replaced the flowing curves of previous eras, and this is evident in the furniture, lighting, and even decorative accents used throughout the space.
Another key feature of Art Deco is the idea of creating a sense of glamour and luxury without overwhelming the space. Art Deco interiors are never overly cluttered. Instead, each piece of furniture and decoration is carefully chosen to make a statement and ensure that the space appears both lavish and thoughtfully designed. This balance of excess and restraint is what defines Art Deco as a sophisticated and modern style.
Finally, an Art Deco-inspired space is not just about style, but also about atmosphere. The key to designing an Art Deco space is to focus on opulence, symmetry and geometric shapes. Don’t be afraid to make bold choices. The mix of luxurious materials, reflective surfaces and striking geometries will create a space that feels glamorous, timeless and incredibly chic.
Conclusion
Art Deco interiors are about much more than just decorative elements – they’re about creating an atmosphere of luxury, sophistication and timeless glamour. By incorporating key design features such as geometric patterns, opulent materials, bold colors, and reflective surfaces, you can bring the elegance of the Art Deco era into your home while ensuring the space feels both modern and relevant. Whether you’re furnishing a living room, bedroom, or dining area, incorporating Art Deco elements will ensure your interior design makes a lasting impression, making it just as chic and luxurious today as it was nearly a century ago. Take a trip back in time and immerse yourself in the diverse world of Art Deco – your home will thank you.
