23 Apr Art Deco Interiors

Posted at 15:35h in Uncategorised by

As promised last week, we’ll be taking you on a tour of globally renowned Interior Design styles that we are loving this year. First on the list is ‘Art Deco’, emerging in the late 19th century, as a refreshing contrast from the over elaborate styles of Art Nouveau. Designers were looking towards the future, hence the bold, no fuss style of the Art Deco movement. What classifies an interior as ‘Art Deco’? Here are a few design elements that were prominent in the era:

  • Geometric shapes
  • Exaggerated curves
  • Sharp vertical and horizontal lines
  • Bold colours
  • Stepped forms
  • Symmetry

Below is an example of a restored Art Deco Building in Sydney’s North Shore that embraces these design elements.

From street view, the exaggerated curved wall, stepped forms and sharp vertical / horizontal lines distinguish the building’s Art Deco style. A contrasting colour scheme of black and white is carried from outside in. Inside, Architect and Interior Designer, Brooke Aitken has carefully considered colour, arrangement, shape, pattern, and material to capture the decorative and modern aesthetics of the era.

You will notice the designer has played with contrast over and over again.

Colour

Draw attention to the eye by using a contrasting colour scheme. Here the stark white fireplace and ceiling are contrasted by black details and  a deep olive green carpet.

Symmetry and Arrangement

Find a focal point in the space, for example the fireplace and ceiling rose and position your furniture symmetrically around it. This will evoke a formal and sophisticated feel, typically admired throughout Art Deco style.

Shape

Select furniture, lighting and decor pieces that are curved or straight in their form and allow for a good balance. Remember, contrast is key.

Pattern

Introduce geometric patterns through wallpaper and fabric, to play tribute to the decorative, geometric patterns of the era. This ‘Metropolis Limelight’ wallpaper designed by Catherine Martin and Mokum adds a layer of old world glamour.

Material

When selecting hard finishes, everything should look polished and smooth. Embrace materials typical to the era, for example, reflective surfaces and antique etched glass.

Stay tuned for our next article on Mid-century Modern Design.

 

Image 1 and 2 courtesy of https://www.homestolove.com.au/restoration-of-an-old-art-deco-home-6554