Glamour, extravagance, sophistication. Splendid combinations of exotic and simple decor elements, contrast colour combinations. Art Deco has been the style of bohemian homes all over the world since its rise in the 1920s, through the brilliance and extravagance of the Golden Age of Hollywood, to the luxury properties of some celebrities today.
The interior in this eclectic style by definition is an elegant synthesis of modernism and neoclassicism. An expensive pleasure that reflects the hedonistic life and social consciousness of rich society in the 1930s and 1940s. Art Deco originated in France but has gained great popularity in America. Hollywood designers give new meaning to the words “splendour” and “glamour” by creating the interiors of luxury transatlantic cruise ships, elegant night clubs and hotels at the hottest points of America’s social life map.
Art Deco is a perfect combination of a modern colour palette, constructivism geometry and the chic of archaic African, Egyptian and Ancient Eastern cultures.
The most expensive hard woods, elephant’s ivory, snake and crocodile skin, wild animals fur, nickel, forged and welded iron, copper, gold, mirrors, abstract sculptures – all of it or anything that could be called exotic and expensive was present in an art decor interior.
There are usually more than three colours used in art deco interiors The main accent is the natural materials, their beauty and genuineness, which stand out on a light beige background. The deep tones of brown, blue, purple, dark red and black are used as contrast colours. The furniture and accessories are in bright gold, silver and bronze shades.
The decoration in the Art Deco interior is just as important as the colours used. Oriental motifs and ornaments have an important role in this context. The major element in these kind of interiors is the furniture – sofas, armchairs, loungers, love seats. Straight simple expressive lines, refinement forms, absence of pretentious decorating elements and an expensive upholstery. Textile is important for achieving the glamour and splendour that we associate with the interiors of the “Great Gatsby” and the homes of the social elite of this age. Think of rich, elegant curtains, lavish decorations, textile wallpapers, luxurious upholstery and pillows, all made of silk, velvet, satin and other natural fabrics with a smooth texture.
Like any other element of the decoration in this style, the interior walls and ceilings must be finished with the finest and most expensive materials. Here are the typical Art deco lines, ornaments and decorations. Floors are usually made of exquisite hardwood with a glossy finish or elegant ceramic tiles. The walls are painted or upholstered with textile wallpaper, most often in dark colours. Artistic plaster or velvet paint can be used as an option.
The lighting fixtures are the glamorous final touch in the elegant and lavish Art Deco interior. Charming chandeliers and desk lamps made of brass, crystal and silver are the jewels in these bohemian homes.
The atmosphere of joy and glamour is enhanced by the accessories used. Here, all made of silver, gold or copper in order to reflect the light.
The eclectic nature of Art Deco interiors suggests a combination of objects from different periods and styles. Their character should be bright, brave, eccentric and original. Full size mirrors locked in massive copper or golden frames, forged cornices, crystal, porcelain with golden finishing, hand painted oriental vases and many others. Art work depicting paradise birds, elegant women, abstract objects is a wonderful element of decoration in an Art Deco interior. All images and stories which remind us that life should be celebrated.
If you want to break the traditional conservative approach in interior design and have a piece of that glamorous atmosphere from the Hollywood Golden Age, you already know how to add the elegance and luxury of Art Deco into your home.