Introduction

In the early 1930s, Art Deco style became increasingly popular in interior design. It was characterized by its sleek lines, geometric shapes, bright colors, and luxurious materials. From Hollywood to New York and Paris to Shanghai, Art Deco interiors could be seen in stylish homes, hotels, and public spaces. In this article, we will dive into the glamorous world of 1930’s Art Deco interior design, exploring its history, features, and influences.

History of Art Deco

Art Deco style emerged in the 1920s as a response to the mass-produced goods and decoration of the Victorian era. It was influenced by various art movements such as Cubism, Futurism, and the Bauhaus school. Art Deco was also influenced by the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922, which ignited a fascination with Egyptian art and design.

The term “Art Deco” was born at the 1925 Exposition des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris. The exhibition showcased the latest trends in art and design, including Art Deco, which was characterized by its emphasis on luxury, exoticism, and modernity. Art Deco style continued to gain popularity throughout the 1930s, particularly in the United States where it became associated with the glamour of Hollywood and the New York skyline.

Features of Art Deco Interiors

Art Deco interiors were designed to be both luxurious and functional. The style combined bold colors, geometric shapes, and luxurious materials to create a visually striking and sophisticated space. The most notable features of Art Deco interiors include:

Geometric Shapes

Art Deco interiors often featured bold geometric shapes, such as zigzags, chevrons, and sunburst motifs. These shapes were used in furniture, lighting fixtures, and decorative objects.

Luxurious Materials

Art Deco interiors were known for their opulence, and designers often used luxurious materials such as marble, brass, and exotic wood. These materials were incorporated into furniture, flooring, and decorative accents.

Bright Colors

Bright, bold colors were a hallmark of Art Deco interiors. Colors such as red, yellow, and turquoise were often used to create a dramatic effect, while black and white were used to create a sharp contrast.

Streamlined Forms

Art Deco interiors favored streamlined forms and clean lines. Furniture often had a streamlined, aerodynamic look, and decorative objects were designed to be both functional and visually pleasing.

Influences on Art Deco Interiors

Art Deco style was influenced by a variety of sources, including art movements, historical events, and popular culture. Some of the key influences on Art Deco interiors include:

Cubism

Cubism was an art movement that emphasized geometric shapes and abstract forms. Art Deco designers incorporated these elements into their work, creating furniture and decorative objects that were both functional and visually striking.

Exoticism

Art Deco interiors were often inspired by exotic cultures and destinations. Egyptian motifs, for example, were popular in Art Deco design after the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb.

The Machine Age

The Machine Age was a period of rapid technological advancement in the early 20th century. Art Deco designers incorporated elements of the Machine Age into their work, creating furniture and decorative objects with a streamlined, futuristic look.

Examples of Art Deco Interiors

There are many stunning examples of Art Deco interiors around the world. Here are just a few:

The Chrysler Building

The Chrysler Building in New York City is a prime example of Art Deco architecture. Its sleek, streamlined design and decorative details, such as the stainless steel eagle gargoyles, make it an iconic landmark.

The Edgewater Beach Hotel

The Edgewater Beach Hotel in Chicago was a popular destination for the rich and famous in the 1930s. Its Art Deco interior featured elegant furnishings and decorative accents, such as a mural by artist Louis Pierre Rigal.

The Empire State Building

The Empire State Building in New York City is another iconic Art Deco skyscraper. Its interior features include marble walls, decorative friezes, and geometric light fixtures.

Conclusion

Art Deco style revolutionized interior design in the 1930s, bringing a new sense of luxury, glamour, and modernity to homes, hotels, and public spaces around the world. Its influence can still be seen today in many contemporary interiors. We hope this article has given you an insight into the world of 1930’s Art Deco interior design, and inspired you to incorporate its bold and beautiful elements into your own space.