Art Deco History

I have always been fascinated by Art Deco. It’s bold, glamorous, and full of life. Art Deco isn’t just an artistic movement. It’s a whole aesthetic that changed the way the world looked in the 1920s and 1930s. From architecture to fashion and jewellery to cars. Art Deco history influenced nearly every aspect of design. It was a response to the chaos of World War I, a celebration of progress, and a testament to human creativity. Let’s take a deep dive into this dazzling era!

The Origins of Art Deco

Art Deco, short for “Arts Décoratifs,” originated in France in the early 20th century. The term comes from the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris. A world fair that showcased this innovative new style.

  • Influenced by the Art Nouveau movement but embraced modernism.
  • Incorporated elements from Cubism, Bauhaus, and Futurism.
  • Inspired by ancient cultures such as Egypt, Greece, and the Aztecs.

This movement was all about luxury, elegance, and geometric precision. Unlike the flowing lines of Art Nouveau, Art Deco emphasized sharp edges, symmetry, and streamlined forms.

Hotel Montana Switzerland-Art-Deco-Style. copywrite: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

hotel-montana-switzerland-art-deco-history-lavish-restaurant.

Key Features of Art Deco Design

One of the reasons I adore Art Deco is its distinct features. You can spot an Art Deco piece from a mile away! Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Geometric Shapes – Zigzags, sunbursts, and chevrons were common motifs.
  • Bold Colours – Deep blues, rich greens, and vibrant oranges dominated.
  • Luxurious Materials – Chrome, glass, lacquer, ivory, and exotic woods were frequently used.
  • Symmetry and Balance – Everything had a perfect, structured design.
  • Stylized Imagery – Figures and patterns were simplified into sleek, modern forms.

Whether in architecture, furniture, or fashion, Art Deco was always striking and glamorous.

Art Deco in Architecture

Perhaps the most iconic representation of Art Deco is its architecture. In cities like New York or Miami, you’ll see Art Deco buildings standing proudly, showcasing their intricate details and bold designs.

Chrysler Building entrance. Art Deco style. copywrite: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

405-lexington-avenue-chrysler-building-entrance-steel-art-deco-doors

Notable Art Deco Buildings:

  • Chrysler Building (New York, USA) – A masterpiece of metallic brilliance with a stunning crown.
  • Empire State Building (New York, USA) – Tall, majestic, and perfectly symmetrical.
  • Palacio de Bellas Artes (Mexico City, Mexico) – A fusion of Art Nouveau and Art Deco with a stunning golden dome.
  • Napier, New Zealand – A city rebuilt entirely in the Art Deco style after an earthquake in 1931.

These buildings exude grandeur and optimism, reflecting the era’s belief in progress and the power of technology. Art deco history is still standing tall today.

Empire State Building, New York. copywrite: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

empire-state-building-close-up.

Art Deco in Interior Design

Stepping into an Art Deco interior feels like stepping into a time machine. Everything is sleek, polished, and luxurious. I love how every detail in an Art Deco space feels deliberate and refined.

  • Furniture – Streamlined, with curved edges, metallic finishes, and exotic woods.
  • Lighting – Crystal chandeliers, frosted glass sconces, and geometric lamps.
  • Textiles – Velvet, satin, and bold-patterned fabrics in rich colours.
  • Wall Decor – Mirrored panels, lacquered surfaces, and metallic accents.

It’s no wonder Art Deco interiors are still so admired today – they radiate sophistication!

Take a look at this stunning video: Art Deco meets Modern Interior Design

Art Deco in Fashion and Jewellery

The world of fashion in the 1920s and 1930s was deeply influenced by Art Deco. The geometric, sleek, and bold aesthetic translated beautifully into clothing and accessories.

  • Flapper Dresses – Short, fringed, and beaded, they were perfect for dancing the Charleston.
  • Sharp Tailoring – Suits became more structured, with strong shoulders and sleek silhouettes.
  • Bold Jewellery – Chunky bracelets, layered necklaces, and geometric rings adorned stylish individuals.
  • Exotic Influences – Egyptian motifs, Asian embroidery, and African-inspired prints added flair.

I personally adore Art Deco jewellery. The clean lines and use of platinum, diamonds, and onyx create timeless pieces that still feel modern today.

Pictorial Review 1923 magazine cover. copywrite: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

pictorial-review-1923-01-magazine-cover-two-women-flapper-dresses-jewellery.
Check out these great Art Deco prints at Nordic Design House UK

Art Deco History continued…

Art Deco in Automobiles

The influence of Art Deco even extended to automobiles. Cars from this era looked like moving pieces of art!

  • Streamlined Shapes – Sleek curves and smooth lines made cars look futuristic.
  • Chrome Detailing – Shiny accents added a luxurious touch.
  • Elegant Grilles and Headlights – Geometric patterns were incorporated into vehicle design.

Some famous Art Deco cars include the 1935 Auburn Boattail Speedster and the 1937 Cord 812. They embody the glamour and excitement of the era.

1935 Auburn Boattail Speedster. copywrite: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

1935-auburn-851-s-c-boattail-speedster_-red.

The Decline and Revival of Art Deco

Sadly, Art Deco’s dominance began to wane after World War II. The rise of Modernism, with its focus on simplicity and function, led to the decline of this decorative style. By the 1950s, Art Deco was seen as outdated and overly ornate.

However, Art Deco never truly disappeared! It has experienced several revivals, particularly in the 1960s and again in the 1980s. Today, Art Deco is still cherished in design, fashion, and architecture. Many cities have restored their historic Art Deco buildings, ensuring their legacy lives on.

Art Deco Interior with furniture by Emile Jacques Ruhlman 1920

art-deco-interior-with-furniture-by-emile-jacques-ruhlmann

copywrite: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

Conclusion: The Positives of Art Deco

Art Deco remains one of the most beloved and influential design movements in history, and it’s easy to see why. It embodies optimism, elegance, and progress. The movement celebrated luxury without apology. It embraced modernity without losing artistic value, and brought beauty into everyday life.

One of the best aspects of Art Deco is its timeless appeal. Whether in fashion, architecture, or interior design, Art Deco elements still feel fresh and stylish. The movement also represents a fascinating era of innovation. A time where new technologies, cultural influences, and artistic exploration came together. This in turn created something that was truly spectacular.

For me, Art Deco is more than just a style – it’s an attitude. It’s about confidence, sophistication, and embracing the future with enthusiasm. The world may have moved on from the Jazz Age, but the spirit of Art Deco lives on, continuing to inspire designers and dreamers alike!

As you read earlier, Art Deco was influenced by Cubism. Check out this great article: Cubism Meaning

Bye for now and keep on creating !

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