Hello there! We're Sue and Abi from Interior Design and Property Solutions (IDPS), and today we're diving into the world of Art Deco—a design style that epitomises glamour, sophistication, and modernity. Whether you're renovating a period property or refreshing your contemporary home, Art Deco offers timeless elegance with a touch of bold flair.

What Is Art Deco?

Originating in France before World War I and reaching its peak in the 1920s and '30s, Art Deco emerged as a celebration of modernity, luxury, and technological advancement. It was a departure from the ornate and organic forms of previous styles, embracing instead streamlined shapes, geometric patterns, and opulent materials. This movement influenced architecture, fashion, and, of course, interior design, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire today.

Key Characteristics of Art Deco Interior Design…

Geometric Patterns and Bold Motifs

Art Deco interiors are renowned for their use of geometric shapes and symmetrical designs. Zigzags, chevrons, and sunburst motifs are staples of the style, providing a sense of elegance and modernity. These patterns can be incorporated into various elements, from wallpapers and rugs to furniture and lighting fixtures.

Luxurious Materials

The use of high-end materials such as chrome, stainless steel, glass, lacquer, and exotic woods like ebony and mahogany underscores the opulence that defines Art Deco interior design. Rich fabrics including silk and velvet add texture and depth, enhancing the luxurious feel of the space.

Bold Colour Palettes

Art Deco colour schemes are characterised by deep, rich hues. Jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red, and amethyst purple are often paired with metallic accents in gold, silver, or chrome to create a dramatic and glamorous atmosphere.

Streamlined Furniture and Sculptural Forms

Furniture pieces in the Art Deco style feature sleek, streamlined forms with clean lines and minimal ornamentation. Sculptural elements, such as fluted details and angular shapes, add visual interest and a sense of artistry to functional pieces.

Statement Lighting

Lighting fixtures in Art Deco interiors are not merely functional but serve as focal points within a room. Chandeliers, sconces, and pendant lights often feature bold geometric designs, luxurious materials, and intricate detailing, contributing to the overall glamour of the space.

Incorporating Art Deco into Modern Homes

Bringing Art Deco elements into your home doesn't mean creating a period-perfect replica. Instead, it's about infusing your space with the style's essence—glamour, sophistication, and modernity—while maintaining a contemporary sensibility.

Start with Statement Pieces

Introduce Art Deco through key items that serve as focal points. A geometric mirror, a sculptural lamp, or a lacquered sideboard can set the tone for the room and inspire the rest of your design choices.

Embrace Geometric Patterns

Incorporate bold geometric patterns into your interiors through wallpaper, rugs, or textiles. A sunburst mirror or a chevron-patterned throw can add dynamic visual interest and a touch of Art Deco flair.

Choose Luxurious Materials

Opt for materials that exude luxury and sophistication. Marble countertops, brass fixtures, and velvet upholstery can elevate your space and give it an Art Deco-inspired opulence.

Play with Colour

While bold jewel tones are a hallmark of Art Deco, modern interpretations often favour a more subdued palette. Consider deep navy, charcoal, or emerald green as base colours, accented with metallic gold or silver for a contemporary twist.

Focus on Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in Art Deco interiors. Choose fixtures with bold geometric designs and luxurious finishes. A tiered chandelier or a pair of angular sconces can serve as both functional and decorative elements in your space.

Real-Life Inspirations

To see Art Deco in action, consider visiting the following locations:

Art Deco House on Station Road, Okehampton - An Art Deco house located on Station Road in Okehampton stands out from the surrounding architecture with its unique design. Captured in a photograph by Stephen Craven, the house exemplifies the streamlined forms and decorative elements characteristic of the Art Deco style.
Sunpark, Brixham: Sunpark is a 1930s Art Deco house in Brixham that showcases the distinctive architectural style of the era. The property features a white exterior, curved lines, balconies, and Crittall glazing, reflecting the elegance and design principles of the Art Deco movement.
Penhill House, Brixham: Penhill House, located in Brixham, is a 1930s Art Deco property that has been lovingly restored by its current owners. Believed to have once been owned by Agatha Christie's accountant, the house retains many original features from the 1930s, offering a glimpse into the past while providing modern comforts.

Final Thoughts

Art Deco offers a timeless aesthetic that combines glamour, sophistication, and modernity. By thoughtfully incorporating its elements into your home, you can create a space that feels both luxurious and contemporary. Remember, the key is to balance bold statement pieces with subtle accents, ensuring that your design feels cohesive and true to your personal style.

Thinking about weaving some Art Deco magic into your home? We’d love to be part of that journey. Here at IDPS, we (Sue and Abi!) offer bespoke design advice tailored to your space, lifestyle, and the timeless glamour you're looking to achieve. Whether you’re starting from scratch or adding a few statement touches, we’re on hand to help make your vision a reality—stylishly and stress-free.

Drop us a line to chat through your ideas or arrange a design consultation. Let’s bring the elegance, boldness, and beauty of Art Deco into your Devon home—with your personality at the heart of it.

Art Deco: Glamour and Modernity in Interior Design