Art Deco Home Decor

The Art Deco style of home décor grew out of the Nouveau period, which ended around the beginning of World War I. Art Deco took the Nouveau décor style to the next level creating a more modern approach to design than had ever been seen before. Ironically, some of the fundamental elements of the design were rooted in classical Greek and Roman looks with an exotic twist brought to life by influences from ancient Egyptian and far eastern regions. The Art Deco style of home decor took these inspirations and added a modern twist for a truly unique look that has withstood the test of time.

The Art Deco style of home decor began around 1910 and lasted through the depression until about 1939. However, the period referred to as the roaring 20’s was the bastion of such a unique movement. The popularity was fueled by more than just a desire to create new architecture and furniture; it was a social revolution that forever changed the way people lived. In a way, the Art Deco style of home décor even influenced the “Flapper” and new forms of music. The influence was seen in everything from ladies fashion to landmark structures, such as the Chrysler building.

Unlike the Nouveau period, which focused on natural curves and materials, the Art Deco style celebrates mankind’s ability to manipulate objects with the use of new materials and machinery. Popular pieces of the Art Deco style of home decor incorporated intricate inlaid woods, as well as stainless steel, aluminum, and lacquer. As this home decor style became entrenched in society, the Machine Age that was so embraced by the look helped to create affordable options that were embraced by individuals in the United States during the Great Depression. One example of this is the use of new plastics, such as Bakelite and Lucite to create attractive mass-produced pieces for the home that were inexpensive and within the budgets of a larger population.

Art Deco has been resurrected several times, starting in the 1960s. However, you can see its influence in the modernistic approach of the 1950s. It regained popularity in the 1980s, and today the look is a popular design alternative. Authentic well-made pieces can be very expensive, but reproductions are now available that capture the essence of this genre without breaking the budget. If you want to recreate the Art Deco style of décor within your home, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

To recreate this look choose furniture items that encompass dark wood tones. The pieces should be sleek with rounded fronts and simple elegant designs. Mirror, chrome, and glass accents are always a plus, when capturing the Art Deco style of home decor. Many original pieces incorporated shiny stainless steel knobs, rounded mirrors, and glass tops. You can select a few key vintage pieces and incorporate them with more modern new pieces for a twist on an old design. The key is to keep the elements simple and refined. This theme harkens back to the days of Hollywood glam, so opulent pieces of that era provide the crowning touch to any room. Home Décor and Gardening has everything you need to create the perfect design within any area of your abode.