1930s Art Deco Interior Decorating
Art deco style is a look that first gained popularity between the 1920s and 1940s. The style is frequently confused with Art Nouveau, though the two have several subtle differences, including a cleaner, sharper overall look with art deco. The key to the design was to create a more eclectic look than in generations past. The overall look was lavish and modern and took cues from jewelry design, fashion and incorporated hints of exotic cultures. Bold colors, cut glass and plastic accents are all part of the overall style. Does this Spark an idea?
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Color
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In the years leading up to the 1920s, neutral tones including cream and beige were the most widely used in the home. Art deco designs occasionally used these hues as a backdrop for living spaces but used accents in bolder colors. This combination kept the overall feel of the space calming -- but with a touch of modern style. For those looking to really embrace the movement, bright shades of red, yellow and turquoise were ideal, as were combinations of black and white mixed with bold accents.
Flooring
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Linoleum was all the rage during the 1930s art deco look. It was a fairly inexpensive material with a variety of colors and patterns to choose from and was easy to care for. The use of geometric patterns was common, particularly a black and white checker design. Combining a plain color with a contrasting border was another option. Rugs laid over the floor were a combination of bold color and geometric pattern, including squares, circles, the iris flower and boomerangs.
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Furnishings
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As with other aspects of art deco decor, the furnishings featured heavily geometric shapes and patterns and were multi-colored. Native American motifs, florals and similar patterns were used on furniture, and ornate wood carvings or glass work completed the piece. Framed artwork accented walls, often in bold colors or featuring cars of the era or patriotic themes. Tables and chairs were usually compact and designed with ornately carved wood or, more ideally, modern metals with a vinyl top.
Lights
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Lighting was an important aspect of art deco design. Though not all homes of the era had electricity, lighting fixtures were both aesthetic and functional. Glass and chrome were the leading materials for these pieces, which were kept simple and streamlined to complement the rest of the space. Wall- and ceiling-mounted lights were common, as were desk lamps with drum style shades in bold colors and patterns.
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References
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