There’s a certain magic that happens when you step into a room filled with gleaming surfaces, bold geometric patterns, and a sense of timeless elegance. It’s a feeling that harkens back to a bygone era of glitz and glamour, a time when luxury and optimism reigned supreme. That time is the Art Deco period, and it’s making a dazzling comeback.
You see, trends are cyclical, and like fashion, interior design often revisits the past. Just as we saw a surge in mid-century modern a few years ago, Art Deco is now enjoying its moment in the spotlight. The Washington Post even heralded this return in their article, “A Century After Art Deco’s Birth, Designers Say We’re Due For A Revival,” underscoring the enduring appeal of this iconic style.
What Exactly is Art Deco?
Art Deco, short for Arts Décoratifs, is a design style that first emerged in France in the 1920s. It’s a captivating blend of modernity and opulence, characterized by bold geometric shapes, rich materials, and a celebration of craftsmanship. Think of the iconic Chrysler Building in New York City, with its sunburst crown and sleek lines—a perfect embodiment of the Art Deco spirit.
I remember visiting the Eastern Columbia Building in Los Angeles a few years back, a stunning Art Deco landmark. Its turquoise terracotta facade, ornate clock tower, and gleaming gold accents simply took my breath away. It was like stepping back in time, into a world of sophistication and grandeur.
The Allure of Art Deco Revival
So, why is Art Deco experiencing a revival now? For one, it’s a style that exudes confidence and optimism, something we could all use a bit more of in today’s world. It’s also a style that celebrates individuality and self-expression, allowing you to create spaces that are as unique as you are.
And let’s not forget the sheer beauty of it all. Art Deco interiors are visually stunning, with their dramatic lighting, luxurious textures, and bold color palettes. It’s a style that adds a touch of glamour and sophistication to any space.
Adding Art Deco Flair to Your Home
The great thing about Art Deco revival is that it’s not about recreating a museum piece. It’s about taking inspiration from the past and reinterpreting it for the modern world. It’s what Homes & Gardens magazine calls “Updated Deco,” a trend that embraces the Art Deco aesthetic in a fresh and contemporary way.
So, how can you incorporate Art Deco into your own home? It could be as simple as adding a few geometric patterned throw pillows to your sofa, or as elaborate as investing in a statement piece of Art Deco furniture, like a sleek bar cart or a mirrored vanity.
Key Elements of Art Deco Revival
To truly capture the essence of Art Deco revival, focus on these key elements:
- Geometric Shapes: From zigzags and chevrons to sunbursts and fan patterns, geometric shapes are a hallmark of Art Deco design.
- Metallic Accents: Think gleaming gold, shimmering silver, and polished chrome.
- Luxurious Materials: Velvet, leather, marble, and lacquered finishes all add a touch of opulence.
- Bold Colors: Jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red, along with contrasting black and white, create a dramatic effect.
- Statement Lighting: Chandeliers, sconces, and table lamps with geometric designs and metallic accents add a touch of sparkle.
A Personal Touch
Steve Knight, president of the Art Deco Society of Washington, points out that Art Deco was the first design period to “do it particularly well,” referring to its ability to blend beauty and functionality (Source). So, as you embark on your Art Deco revival journey, remember to infuse your spaces with your own personality and style.
I recently added a vintage Art Deco mirror to my hallway, a piece I found at a local antique shop. It’s become a conversation starter, a unique piece that reflects my love for this iconic style.
Whether you’re a seasoned design enthusiast or simply looking to add a touch of glamour to your home, Art Deco revival offers a wealth of inspiration. It’s a chance to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also tell a story, a story of a time when design was a celebration of life, optimism, and the pursuit of beauty.
