Art Deco: Design Inspiration

Art Deco: Design Inspiration

Art Deco style and design is iconic and distinctive. Derived from the refinements to aesthetics Art Nouveau provided before, 1920’s Art Deco incorporated new forms and phenomena from the era. These included the visual qualities of the machine and the positive effect they had on the landscape. This coincided with the ever-present admiration for quality natural materials, such as timber, gold and marble. The contrast between these two themes is fascinating and ultimately underpins the feel and look of Art Deco design.

Art Deco furniture generally struck bold silhouettes and shapes. Square angular parts were balanced with slender bends and geometric curves and arches. A bias towards panelled sides and full shapes often resulted in a heavy aesthetic. This ran in parallel with the visual look of mass produced synthetic objects and machines that were changing industry. Importantly, the design principles applied to furniture was born from an admiration of man-made materials, systems and processes.

A further fundamental element of Art Deco was symbolic. Art Deco sought to symbolise high status and affluence in society. It did this by combining the newest developments in aesthetics but also incorporating luxurious materials. The 1920’s was prosperous for many cities and countries post World War 1. Increased disposable incomes allowed many to buy new technological wonders like cars and electronics. Art deco furniture didn’t just simulate the look of this prosperous time, but the feeling and grandeur everybody was aspiring to become. Its glamour and refined sophistication. Its not-so historical look and edgy demeanour was hip and trendy. Art Deco was a true reflection of a successful time commercially. The expression of this new surrounding for designers was built into Art Deco including furniture. Every shape and line literally stands up and out begging for attention and appreciation. Contrasts of colour and the gleam of glossy materials mimicked the buzz of a city centre or the allure of a glossy new car showroom.

A characteristic many people love about Art Deco is its ability to stand up as fine art sculpture before being a functional piece. Motifs shapes and lines were so bold and compact that they often they could be mistaken for sculptures. Design principles and form often trumped function. But we love art deco for it. Art deco Products can add tons of fun and luxurious glamour to a space. It can set the tone for entertaining room feeling particularly at home in spaces for occasions such as bars and living areas or similar.

Our staple Art Deco tables possess the flavour of the era incorporating many of the influences described; Strong geometric shape with clean lines and square edge profiles. Thick heavy legs and top resembling the heavy machinery and mass-produced objects of the day. Full panels allowing maximum surface area for the beauty of polished wood to be on show. Geometric inlays contrasting with natural hues of timber, such as brass inlay on dark oak or wenge inlay into cherry wood.

Despite opulence and splendour being significant factors of art deco design, a recent trend has been to strip it right back within the hole interior context. Isolate a large art deco unit with a natural backdrop and let the expanse of panel and shapely profile un-complicate the space. Simple living and organised living is an important influencer and an art deco cabinet often has plenty of storage and clean aesthetic. Perfect pairing. Keep an eye out for it on Instagram. #simpleliving