Decor Spotlight: Art Deco
The world of design has witnessed numerous movements and styles, but few have left such an indelible mark on contemporary design as the Art Deco movement of the 1920s and 1930s. Its timeless glamour, international style, and symmetrical designs continue to inspire modern aesthetics. But what makes Art Deco so captivating, even after almost a century? Let's explore its history and understand why it remains influential in today's design landscape.
Art Deco's Glorious Beginnings
Originating in France during the early 20th century, the term "Art Deco" is derived from the "Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes," a world fair held in Paris in 1925. The exhibition showcased the world's most innovative designs, and it was here that Art Deco made its grand debut. The movement's birth came as a reaction against the organic, flowing forms of its predecessor, Art Nouveau. Instead, Art Deco embraced geometry, clean lines, gold and bronze finishings, and a combination of modernist styles with fine craftsmanship and rich materials.
Characteristics that Defined an Era
A few key attributes made Art Deco stand out
Geometry and Symmetry
Art Deco was a celebration of straight lines, zigzags, chevrons, and sunburst motifs. Whether in architecture, jewelry, or graphics, these patterns became emblematic of the era.
Rich Colors and Materials
Exotic materials like ebony, Marble, sharkskin, and zebra skin were combined with chrome and glass. The color palette was bold, using deep hues like navy, black, and gold.
Global Influences
The movement borrowed from various cultures, including ancient Egyptian, Aztec, and African designs, blending them seamlessly into the aesthetic.
The Art Deco Legacy in Modern Design
Art Deco's influence gradually waned with the onset of World War II, giving way to more minimalist and functional design approaches. However, the design movement left an undeniable mark on the skylines of many influential cities such as Miami, FL, and New York, NY (where Amerelle got its start), with many skyscrapers and public buildings bedecked in Art Deco glamour to this day. These edifices, with their ornate facades and geometric detailing, serve as testaments to the era's grandeur.
Today, we witness a resurgence of Art Deco in various ways. Modern homes are increasingly embracing the opulence of Art Deco, combining its luxurious colorways and timeless intricacies. At Amerelle Wallplates, we have designed our Metro, Metro Line, and Steps collections to be the perfect accent for any Art Deco space. Moreover, as Contemporary design continues to evolve, there's a renewed appreciation for craftsmanship, detail, and uniqueness—qualities intrinsic to Art Deco.
Amerelle's Art Deco Expertise
Art Deco is not just a design movement; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of human creativity. Its ability to meld the old with the new, tradition with modernity, makes it a perennial favorite. At Amerelle, though we specialize in crafting the industry standard in wall plates and light switch covers, our craftsmanship doesn’t stop there. Our team is ready and willing to put together custom hardware for any living space. As we continue to seek beauty, innovation, and luxury in design, Amerelle will continue to put just the right finishing touches on your home.
Related Decor Styles
Learn more about these three popular retro and vintage decor styles.
Hollywood Regency / Glam
Glitz and glam take center stage in Hollywood Regency Glam décor, with bold colors, high contrast, and an eclectic, maximalist approach that adds plenty of drama and opulence.
Contemporary
Contemporary design uses clean lines and light colors for airy, sunlight-filled spaces with blond wood and oversized windows. Each line in the architecture and each item in a room adds value.
Modern
This turn-of-the-century design style is a simple, clutter-free aesthetic that steers clear of frills and bold color. It was born of a distinct historical movement that introduced the concept of the open floor plan.