The Art Deco movement, born in the roaring twenties, epitomises glamour, luxury, and a celebration of modern life. Characterised by geometric shapes, rich materials, and a distinct sense of opulence, an art deco interior continues to captivate and inspire today. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to create the perfect art deco interior in your own home, evoking the spirit of a bygone era while embracing contemporary living.
Laying the Foundation: Walls, Floors, and Ceilings
The backdrop of your art deco interior is crucial. Walls can be adorned with geometric wallpaper patterns, featuring stylised floral motifs or bold, contrasting colours. Consider using luxurious textured wallpaper, perhaps in shades of gold, silver, or deep teal. Plain walls can be accentuated with contrasting paint colours in blocks or stripes, echoing the geometric principles of the style.
For flooring, polished wood, parquet, or terrazzo are ideal choices. These materials contribute to the sleek and sophisticated ambience of an art deco interior. Consider incorporating geometric patterns within the flooring itself, such as a striking inlaid border or a central motif. Rugs can also enhance the look, opting for those with geometric designs or abstract patterns in rich, deep colours.
Ceilings offer another opportunity to inject Art Deco flair. Consider using decorative plasterwork featuring geometric designs or stepped patterns. A simple, plain ceiling can be elevated with a statement pendant light fixture, echoing the geometric shapes prominent in the art deco interior.
Furniture: The Essence of Art Deco Style
Furniture is a defining feature of an art deco interior. Look for pieces with clean lines, geometric shapes, and luxurious materials. Inlaid wood, lacquer, chrome, and glass are all characteristic elements. Invest in key pieces such as a sleek, low-slung sofa with curved arms, a mirrored cocktail cabinet, and a dining table with a polished wood or lacquered top. Armchairs with contrasting upholstery and geometric patterns add visual interest and contribute to the overall glamour of the art deco interior.
Lighting: Illuminating the Deco Spirit
Lighting plays a vital role in creating the perfect art deco interior. Geometric shapes are key here. Choose pendant lights, wall sconces, and table lamps featuring stepped designs, sunburst motifs, or sleek, chrome finishes. Glass shades with etched geometric patterns or frosted finishes add a touch of elegance. Layering lighting is essential in an art deco interior, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere while highlighting the decorative elements.
Accessorising: The Finishing Touches
Accessories are the final flourish that truly brings an art deco interior to life. Mirrors are a must-have, adding to the sense of glamour and reflecting light around the room. Choose mirrors with geometric frames or etched designs. Decorative objects such as vases, sculptures, and clocks should also embrace the geometric aesthetic. Materials like chrome, glass, and ceramic are ideal, and look for pieces with stylised floral or animal motifs.
Art Deco artwork, featuring bold colours and geometric abstractions, can further enhance the theme. Consider prints or posters depicting iconic Art Deco architecture or scenes from the era. Don’t overlook the power of textiles. Cushions and throws in rich velvets, silks, or geometrically patterned fabrics add texture and warmth to your art deco interior.
Colour Palette: Creating a Harmonious Ambience
The colour palette of an art deco interior often features rich, bold colours contrasted with metallic accents. Think deep teal, emerald green, ruby red, sapphire blue, and mustard yellow. These colours can be used on walls, furniture upholstery, and accessories. Metallic accents, such as gold, silver, and chrome, are essential in creating the luxurious feel of an art deco interior. They can be incorporated through lighting fixtures, furniture details, and decorative objects. Black and white are also prominent in Art Deco design, offering a striking contrast and adding to the geometric aesthetic.
Creating a Cohesive Art Deco Interior
The key to a successful art deco interior lies in creating a cohesive look. While incorporating all the elements mentioned above can be tempting, it’s crucial to maintain a sense of balance and avoid overwhelming the space. Choose a few key elements that resonate with you and build your design around them. For instance, you might focus on geometric patterns in the wallpaper and rugs, complemented by furniture with clean lines and metallic accents.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different Art Deco styles. The movement encompasses various influences, from Egyptian and Aztec motifs to Cubism and Futurism. By blending these influences, you can create a truly unique and personal art deco interior.
By carefully considering each element, from the walls and floors to the furniture and accessories, you can create an art deco interior that captures the spirit of the era while reflecting your personal style. Embrace the glamour, the geometric beauty, and the luxurious materials, and transport yourself back to the roaring twenties with a truly stunning art deco interior.