What Are the Characteristics of Art Deco Design

Are you captivated by the luxury and elegance of early twentieth-century design? Embrace the essence of Art Deco interior design, a timeless style renowned for its bold, glamorous and undeniably captivating features. From striking geometric patterns to lavish materials, Art Deco design characteristics combined with artistic flair and luxurious details create spaces that feel both timeless and contemporary.

Get ready to explore the key characteristics of this iconic design movement and discover how you can infuse your own living space with its unmistakable charm.

Historical Background of Art Deco

Art Deco, also known as “Le Style Moderne,” originated from the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, held in Paris. This global exhibition showcased the new modern style of decorative arts and marked the beginning of this design’s widespread influence.

During its era, this art design was known by several other names, such as style moderne, Moderne, modernistic, or style contemporain, and wasn’t identified as a single, cohesive style.

Key figures and decorative artists in the movement from the late 19th and early 20th centuries include Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, Jean Puiforcat and Maurice Dufrène, who set the tone for a new era of design. It is also important to mention that Art Deco was influenced by the earlier movement of Art Nouveau, known for its flowing and organic forms, although the approach was more streamlined and geometric.

What Does Art Deco Look Like?

Art Deco, known for its distinct and streamlined aesthetic, embodies several core characteristics that set it apart from other design styles. Here are the distinctive features of style moderne:

Geometric Forms

This design heavily focuses on geometric designs/geometric shapes, which provide a clean, modern and symmetrical appearance.

• Triangular Shapes. These are often used to create dynamic patterns and sharp angles, contributing to the bold and futuristic look of style moderne. Triangles can be seen in building facades, furniture designs, and even accessories like mirrors and light fixtures.
• Rectangular and Zigzag Moderne. Rectangular forms and zigzag motifs are iconic in Art Deco design. They emphasize order and symmetry while adding a sense of movement and rhythm. These patterns can be found in wallpaper, textiles and architectural designs and elements.

Clean Lines

The use of clean lines in this design provides a streamlined and polished appearance, eliminating unnecessary frills and emphasizing form and function.

• Horizontal Lines. These straight lines create a sense of stability and groundedness. Horizontal lines are prevalent in furniture design, building facades and decorative elements, giving you a balanced look.
• Vertical Lines. Emphasizing height and grandeur, vertical lines are typical in skyscraper designs and tall furniture pieces, contributing to the majestic quality of this design.
• Parallel Lines. Parallel lines enhance the modernity of Art Deco designs, creating a sleek and sophisticated effect. These smooth lines can be seen across various mediums, from metalwork to graphical designs.

Bold, Rich Colors

Art Deco is characterized by its use of bold and rich colors that make a strong visual impact.

• Use of Bright and Vivid Colors. Bright colors such as gold, silver and red are commonly used to create a luxurious and vibrant atmosphere. These colors are applied in interior decor, advertising posters and fashion.
• Contrast and Visual Impact. High-contrast colors are used to draw attention and create dramatic effects. The contrast of solid colors like black and gold or white and blue is one of the notable features of art moderne, often seen in artworks, home interiors and graphic design.

Luxurious and Exotic Materials

The use of luxurious materials heightens this art design style, making it synonymous with glamor and opulence.

• Use of Exotic Woods and Materials. Exotic woods like ebony, zebrawood and mahogany are frequently used, offering rich textures and colors. These materials are prominent in furniture design and interior decor.
• Modern and Expensive Materials. Modern materials such as stainless steel, aluminum and inlaid ivory further cement the futuristic and luxurious aspect of Art Deco. These materials are used in modern architecture, decorative objects and lighting fixtures.

Stylized Forms and Decorations

This great contemporary design incorporates stylized and often symmetrical forms with intricate decorations, taking inspiration from various cultural and natural sources.

• Exotic Motifs. The motifs and patterns used in Art Deco reflect influences from ancient Egypt, Africa and the Far East. These exotic motifs, seen in textiles, wallpapers and artwork, bring a touch of the mystical and the exotic.
• Repetition of Elements. Repetition in design elements creates a rhythm and harmony, which is pleasing to the eye. This can be seen in architectural style details, graphic design and interior decorations.
• Decorative Elements and Patterns. Decorative elements such as sunbursts, chevrons and stylized floral patterns are typical features of Art Deco. These patterns are used extensively in everything from building facades to jewelry design that contributes to the style’s ornate and decorative quality.

Transform Your Home With Stunning Art Deco Design: Schedule an Appointment With Coburn’s Kitchen & Bath Showroom Today!

Art Deco design, with its timeless elegance and modern sophistication, can transform any space into a luxurious haven. By incorporating Art Deco characteristics such as geometric shapes, bold colors, luxurious materials and streamlined forms, Coburn’s Kitchen & Bath Showroom can help you achieve a stunning contemporary aesthetic in your home, seamlessly blending the style with contemporary life.

Ready to bring the glamor of this great art design era into your living space? Contact Coburn’s Kitchen & Bath Showroom today, and let our expert designers assist you in creating a unique and exquisite environment that reflects your style.

Don’t wait—your dream Art Deco-inspired kitchen or bathroom is just a step away!