History Of Art Deco Interior Design

Art deco began in France in the early 1900s when designers wanted something modern and bold, very different from the soft floral styles of that time. The style officially got its name as “Art Deco” from a Paris exhibition, “Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes”, in 1925. It mixed ideas from new technology, geometric art, Egyptian and Aztec designs, and the excitement of the machine age. 

By the 1920s and 1930s, Art Deco’s luxury interior design styles spread around the world. Its curved balconies, geometric windows, pastel colours and shiny details became popular in homes, cinemas, hotels, and office buildings. 

Art Deco Interior Design’s Influence In India

Art Deco entered India mainly during the colonial period. By the 1930s, Indian architects and royal families were fascinated by this “international modern” aesthetic that felt luxurious without being overly complicated. 

Mumbai has one of the largest collections of Art Deco buildings in the world, after Miami. Areas like Marine Drive, Oval Maidan, and Churchgate still carry this look. In Kolkata, you would be able to see Art Deco features in cinema halls, residential buildings, and commercial structures. Coastal towns like Goa also used the style in bungalows and public buildings.

Over time, Indians mixed Deco shapes with our own motifs like the lotus, tropical plants, and traditional patterns. This fusion became known as Indo-Deco. Even today, you will see hints of it in terrazzo floors, brass accents, curved sofas and vintage furniture. 

Features Of Art Deco Styles

With Art Deco celebrating its one hundred years of ruling, let’s explore its features. 

Colours

Art Deco uses rich and deep colours that instantly make a space feel bold. 

• Black
• Deep Blue
• Mustard Yellow
• Emerald Green
• Navy Blue
• Burgundy
• Teal
• Charcoal

These colours are frequently paired with metallic accents like gold, brass, chrome, or bronze to add shine. 

Flooring

Art Deco prefers smooth, glossy, and patterned floors. Common choices include, 

• Marble or marble-look floors
• Terrazzo
• Black-and-white patterned tiles
• Wooden floors with geometric inlays
• Chevron and herringbone patterns
• Rugs with bold zigzag or fan designs

Furniture

Art Deco furniture pieces usually look heavy, structured and luxurious, almost like display furniture. It includes dark polished wood, chrome or metal details, soft velvet and leather upholstery, glossy finishes and curved finishes. Like, 

• Curved sofas and chairs
• Glossy wooden cabinets
• Mirrored consoles and sideboards
• Furniture with gold or chrome trims
• Strong geometric shapes

Also read: Curved sofa styling ideas for your living room!

Lighting

Lighting is one of the most eye-catching parts of this style. They brighten the room and add a glamorous mood instantly. 

• Globe lights
• Tiered chandeliers
• Brass or chrome wall lamps
• Sconces with frosted or tinted glass
• Sculptural lamps with geometric shapes

Fabrics

Art Deco fabrics are soft, smooth, and rich to touch. 

• Velvet
• Satin
• Silk blends
• Smoother leather
• Suede

Popular Art Deco Interior Design Motifs

Art Deco is known for its bold and decorative motifs. These patterns give the style its identity. They are found in wall art, furniture, lighting, flooring, and even window grills. 

• Sunburst designs
• Zigzags
• Chevrons
• Fan shapes
• Stepped forms
• Trapezoidal shapes
• Triangular shapes
• Sweeping curves
• Jagged and pointed edges
• Stylised nature & wildlife
• Sensual female figures

Common Materials Used In Art Deco Style

Art Deco interiors use materials that look rich, polished and shiny. 

• Brass, gold, chrome, and stainless steel
• Glass and mirrored surfaces
• Polished tiles
• Lacquered and high-gloss finishes
• Marble and stone
• Wood (especially dark woods like walnut and mahogany)
• Leather
• Velvet and satin
• Terrazzo

If you are looking for vintage interior design ideas for your home, adding brass, chrome and gold accents is your best bet! 

How To Implement Art Deco Interior Designs In Your Home

You don’t have to renovate your entire house to bring in Art Deco home decor. 

• Add geometric patterns: Use geometric wallpapers, cushions, rugs, or floor tiles to bring in the Art Deco vibe. 
• Go for bold colours: Pick one main colour like emerald green, navy blue, or wine red, and balance it with gold, beige, black, or chrome. 
• Upgrade lighting: Choose statement lights, such as golden or brass chandeliers, glass lamps with geometric shapes, or retro-style wall sconces. 
• Invest in statement furniture: Even one of bold furniture, like a curved velvet sofa, glossy wood coffee table or chrome trim chairs can make a difference.
• Use luxurious fabrics: Velvet cushions, satin curtains, leather chairs, pure cotton spreads, etc., give an instant posh feel. 
• Incorporate metallics: Use gold, brass, chrome or stainless steel in drawer handles, light fixtures, mirrors, and side tables. 
• Add mirror accents: Mirrors reflect light better, making your space look bigger. 

Conclusion

Art Deco interior design is perfect for those who want their home to feel stylish, expressive, and full of personality. You don’t need to full makeover, just start with one Art Deco element, like adding a velvet chair, a geometric mirror, a sunburst motif, or a brass lamp. 

Also read: Home styling ideas to steal from 6 celebrities across the world! 

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