If you’re a fan of the old movies, circa 1930s Hollywood, then you’ve seen some of the best America had to offer in the Art Deco era. The trend toward Art Deco actually started in the 1920s and the term came from the 1925 Paris Exposition international des arts décoratifs et industrial. Basically, this interior decorating movement (which expanded to include other areas including architecture and fashion) was based upon the desire to let go of traditional design aesthetics and to move into a more modern approach to furnishings and decorating.
Initially Art Deco focused on using non-traditional materials such as glass, mirrors, chrome, bakelite, terrazzo and other human-made materials. The style was based in geometry, whether using steps, rounded corners, or repeated lines there was always a basic geometrical foundation. The colors were usually pretty lavish and much attention was paid to black and metallics.
The period in history when Art Deco made its biggest impression was a unique one, nestled between two world wars, while the appeal of the glitz and glam of America’s Hollywood was at its heyday, which greatly affected this artistic movement. The most effective modern art deco interior decorating results are achieved when 1930’s Hollywood is used heavily as a reference point.
Luckily, if you’re thinking about going with a little Art Deco in your home, it’s pretty easy to do as the trends are once again leaning in that direction.
Metallic Finishes in Decorating
The first thing you’ll notice if you visit any of the major decorating stores like Pottery Barn or Pier One is the metallic influences. Not only can you pick up vases and other accessories with metallic finishes, you can even find entire tables made of metal or mirrors and you’ll see a lot of fabrics with metallic thread in them.
Other Finishes for Home Surfaces
If the metallic finish is a bit too much for you then go with a pearlized or brushed metal finish. These finishes don’t make as much of a statement but still are quite glamorous on home interiors. And don’t forget about lacquer finishes, black lacquer especially was all the rage in this era.
Geometric Shapes for Interiors
The geometry of Art Deco is integral: think Sears Tower. So look for repeating patterns and shapes that hold visual interest, often the repeating pattern will have an emphasis on three elements. Curved edges on furniture are also important, as are sleek lines.
Art Deco Colors
The downtown area of Miami was based on Art Deco architecture and the homes are completely saturated in these colors. Use Miami as an inspiration and look for cool shades that are bold with color and use a lot of metallic inspiration. And don’t forget about black, which can be used very liberally.
Getting the right balance of today’s sensibilities and taste levels with Art Deco and 1930s Hollywood takes a bit of work. The mentality of people today is much different than it was back in the Art Deco era when mass producing and synthetic textiles made once lavish items affordable for everyone. So to make your design more successful in these modern times, resort more to the elements of shape, texture, and finish rather than getting too opulent and risk being gaudy.
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