Art deco began when modernists started to incorporate art into design. This design technique is known for its geometric shapes, fun colorways, even lines, streamline forms, and just some bright, bold pops of color. I love to see art deco being used in extraordinarily luxurious and high-end places with a past motif. 

I think Art deco symbolizes a modern and contemporary space while keeping things fun and playful. You should incorporate art deco into your home if you are a wallpaper lover or reminiscent of early disco kind of facades. A lighting fixture that goes mid-century can also be considered art deco, so if you are fans of these kinds of styles and old mid-century looks, you should use art deco.

Looking to give your home an art deco look visit the Lindye Galloway shop now

Why should you add art deco design to your home?

Art deco can be anything from a coffee table or a mirrored vanity console, etc. So I would pay attention to the rich and luxurious items that have tiny details in their architecture or characterizes art deco to get that vibe across. Also, with art deco, things tend to have a sheen or kind of high lacquer finish, so I love to pair that with something kind of more matte or that has a little bit texture, like linen or velvet. 

Art deco can elevate your space with its French influence. You can use geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and beautiful wood tones from the exterior to your home’s interior. You will be pleasantly surprised by how retro and elevated it can feel. I would also consider wallpaper or doing fun architectural details that involve linear shapes for a modern appeal.

What are the characteristics of art deco interior design?

Art Deco characteristics are easily distinguishable. We usually recognize Art Deco designs and objects intuitively, once we see them, but things tend to be a little more complicated when defining this visual arts style.

Themes

There are several regularly occurring themes in Art Deco design. which are as followed:

• Sunbursts
• Chevrons and zigzags
• Leaves, branches, and feathers
• Jagged, pointed edges inspired by skyscrapers

Colors

• Colors in Art Deco are bold and striking with plenty of contrasts. Bright and deep yellows, greens, blues, reds, and pinks mix well with silver, black, and chrome.
• If you’re looking for something softer, try beiges and creams often used in dining rooms, bedrooms, and living rooms. These colors contrast magnificently with the polished wood and lacquered furniture common to the period.

Materials

• Art Deco pieces use a range of materials; however, each element of Deco design is typically given a luxurious, glossy, or reflective finish. Wood is highly polished, or it is given a lacquer finish that has an unparalleled glamour. 
• Lacquered furniture was a crucial element in luxurious Art Deco design – available in black and white for a classic Deco look, or a range of colors, including pastel or deep shades, for more personalized Art Deco interior design elements.

Related: Luxury Interior Design: How To Decorate Your Home

How can you add art deco to elevate your space?

A fun way to elevate your space with art deco is to use fun prints or exotic finishes, so looking sometimes for an animal print or a finish that has a unique texture is extremely important. Artwork, such as sculptures and thoughtful pieces of art, definitely helps to elevate your space in an art deco way. Many oil paintings or sculptural accents like ornate art and furniture can bring your room an instant art deco appeal.

Emphasize on streamlined shapes 

Streamline shapes can definitely help. Just have a clean slate and bring in some more charming accents.

Add a bold rug 

A bold rug is something that could be fun and has a nice contrast of interest. You can use the rug to bring in some color. I would look for a wool rug to use as your base and then layer furniture or other fun patterns around it. 

Related: Rug Size Guide

Don’t forget about the accents 

The accents are what to me is profound about art deco, the accents are kind of what makes the space and allow for that interior design decor aesthetic to shine through if everything else is more streamlined and contemporary.  

Pay attention to lighting 

Whether it’s a floor lamp, table lamp or a pendant or chandler, an art deco-inspired light fixture can really influence the room’s overall look and feel. 

Make a statement with a mirror 

Make a statement with a mirror. A mirror can have fun details with its trim and depending on if you want to go thin or thick with brass or a different material to make a real impact.

Related: Adding A Touch Of Luxury With An Oversized Chandelier

Luxury and over the top is ok 

When it comes to art deco, this is a characteristic of the times and is something that is just reminiscent of art deco, so go big or go home when it comes to luxury and elevated items.  

Add contemporary art 

Contemporary art is going to be the key ingredient to have your walls talk, so if you want to be oversized and go for something really modern or contemporary with just bright colors, or something monochromatic in a beautiful frame. I believe that this choice can make or break the space.

Check out the selection of art we have available in the Lindye Galloway shop 

Choose fine wood products 

Have fun with your wood tones. Mix and match when it comes to art deco in wood forms, and if you want to have a fun accent chair in the corner that has a wood legs/base or if you want a wood coffee table that’s high lacquer and kind of has a sheen to it. There are ways to bring out art deco within wood without going coastal. 

Accessorize

Accessories, I would look for some vintage coffee table, books, and a fun set of coasters. I’d look for texture and things with elements that resemble the times from their materials and medium, so whether that’s a green hide coaster set or a matte black bull with handles, something resembles modernism and the French era.

If you are looking for help achieving the look and feel you envision for your home contact Lindye Galloway