Art Deco Allure: How to Get the Look in Your Home

Step into the glamorous world of the 1920s and '30s with Art Deco home decor. This iconic style, born from a desire for luxury, modernity, and bold design, is characterized by its geometric precision, rich materials, and striking symmetry. If you're captivated by the elegance of the Jazz Age and want to infuse your home with its sophisticated charm, follow our guide on how to get the Art Deco look.

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Elements of Art Deco Style:

1. Geometric Patterns & Symmetry

Art Deco is defined by its bold, precise geometric patterns and an unwavering commitment to symmetry. Think zigzags, chevrons, sunbursts, and stepped motifs that create a sense of order and grandeur.

• Example: Living Room

• Geometric Rug: A prominent rug with a bold, contrasting geometric pattern anchors the space.
• Symmetrical Layout: Furniture often arranged symmetrically around a focal point.
• Patterned Pillows: Throw pillows feature distinct geometric prints.

 

• Example: Balcony

• Patterned Tile Floor: The outdoor space features a striking geometric tile pattern underfoot.
• Railings: Wrought iron railings often incorporate subtle geometric designs.

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2. Luxurious Materials

Opulence is key in Art Deco. The style embraces high-end materials that reflect wealth and modernity.

• Polished Metals: Chrome, brass, polished silver, and stainless steel for furniture frames, lighting, and accents.
• Mirrored Surfaces: Used on furniture, walls, and decorative items to expand space and add glamour.
• Exotic Woods: Dark, polished woods like ebony, zebrawood, and mahogany for furniture and panelling.
• Lacquered Finishes: High-gloss finishes that create a sleek, modern look.
• Rich Textiles: Velvet, satin, silk, and sometimes even exotic animal prints for upholstery and drapes.
• Marble & Glass: Used for countertops, tabletops, and decorative elements.

 

• Example: Washroom

• Marble Tiling: Dark marble walls and floors exude luxury.
• Chrome Fixtures: Polished chrome on faucets and mirror frame.
• Mirrored Accents: The mirror itself, often with bevelled edges, is a key material.

 

• Example: Dining Room

• Polished Wood Table: A high-gloss, polished wood dining table.
• Velvet Upholstery: Chairs upholstered in rich, jewel-toned velvet.
• Mirrored Sideboard/Wall: Large, framed mirror with geometric detailing reflecting light and adding depth.

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3. Bold Colours & Metallics

Art Deco palettes often feature a neutral base but are punctuated by vibrant jewel tones and strong metallic accents.

• Jewel Tones: Emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red, and deep purples.
• Contrasting Colours: Often paired with black, white, gold, and silver for dramatic effect.

 

• Example: Bedroom 1

• Deep Navy & Gold: A striking combination of dark navy velvet and gold accents.
• Emerald Green/Teal: Used in throw pillows and an accent chair.
• Vibrant Rug: Features bold blue, gold, and cream geometric patterns.

 

• Example: Bedroom 2

• Contrasting Jewel Tones: Emerald green and sapphire blue velvet headboards.
• Bold Art: Features strong geometric shapes in primary and metallic colours.

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4. Streamlined Silhouettes

Furniture and architectural elements are often large in scale but boast clean, aerodynamic lines, reflecting the "Machine Age" and the sleekness of modern transportation.

• Clean Lines: Furniture designs avoid excessive ornamentation, focusing on smooth curves or sharp angles.
• Aerodynamic Forms: Evokes a sense of speed and modernity.

 

• Example: Kitchen

• Sleek Cabinetry: Minimalist, handleless white cabinets.
• Integrated Appliances: Stainless steel appliances blend seamlessly.
• Geometric Pendants: Light fixtures with strong, simple geometric forms.

 

• Example: Study Room

• Streamlined Desk: A dark wood desk with clean lines and minimal fuss.
• Bookcase Design: Simple, geometric structure of the bookcase.

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By layering these distinct Art Deco elements – from geometric patterns and luxurious materials to bold colours and streamlined forms – you can create spaces that are both sophisticated and undeniably glamorous.