Art Deco

What is the first thing you think of when you think of Art Deco design? I bet it wasn't this!

It certainly wasn't what I thought of... But the "Christ the Redeemer" statue that overlooks Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is considered to be the largest Art Deco statue in the world.

So if this is an example of Art Deco, what exactly is Art Deco?

Art deco style graphic posters are becoming popular art for interiors spaces.

Art Deco is a design style that began in France in the 1920's, but took off internationally in the 1930's and 40's. Typical Art Deco style contains bright colours, bold geometric shapes and ornamentation. Art Deco embraced modern technology by using materials that had not been used previously.

The Chrysler Building in New York city is an incredible example of art deco architecture.
When it was built, the Chrysler Building was the tallest skyscraper in the world until it was surpassed by
the Empire State Building a mere 11 months later!

Art Deco furniture is typically laid out in symmetrical patterns and often uses inlays and lacquers.

Components of Art Deco style have been popping up in design magazines over the past few years. The Chevron pattern, also called zigzag or herringbone, can be found on fabrics, rugs, tile patterns and paint treatments.

Chevron pattern.

Modern take on the classic Sunburst mirror, an iconic Art Deco design element. 

A few years ago, my mom and I took a trip to Florida and spent a day in South Beach, Miami. Having seen the iconic buildings on movies and TV over the years, I had a fairly good idea of what to expect. It did not disappoint! Miami is the Art Deco capital of the world followed by Mumbai, India.

Sunny South Beach

The Marriott in South Beach

New India Assurance Building in Mumbai, India

Beautifully lit Hotel Dasaprakash in Mumbai, India

Art Deco was forward thinking for the time and embraced modernity. The clean lines and geometric shapes used in Art deco design make it easy to blend with mid-century modern design... a personal favourite of mine. :)

The art deco inspired chevron patterned rug blends seamlessly with this mid-century modern chair. 

I've often associated Art Deco design with Old Hollywood Glam. Old Hollywood glam design is very plush (think velvets in deep, moody colours), mixed with fur throws and lots of bling (mirrored tables, sparkly chandeliers, silver or gold leafed furniture). Art Deco blends seamlessly with Old Hollywood Glam since Art Deco itself is definitely meant to show off.

If you would like to incorporate some Art Deco elements in your own home, SF Girl by Bay blog has some great ideas! The overall pink, gold and black colour scheme is decidedly art deco. I love how she seamlessly incorporates mid-century furniture (dresser in bedroom) with some Moroccan flair (those lovely poufs that are popping up everywhere). Here's a peak at her girly space with some great Art Deco pieces!

The mid-century modern dresser blends seamlessly in the space.

To me, Art Deco is fun, playful and sometimes a bit wild. It's a style that doesn't seem to take itself too seriously. Today's interpretation of Art Deco tends to incorporate a few key pieces to a space without being overwhelming. It ups the glam factor without being gaudy and has great energy... a space I would be right at home in!



Links:

http://homeklondike.com/2011/03/01/wonderful-art-deco-inspired-penthouse-by-phyllis-harbinger/8-wonderful-art-deco-inspired-penthouse-by-phyllis-harbinger-buffet-cabinet/

http://wonderfulworldreview.blogspot.ca/2011/05/statue-of-christ-redeemer-is-located-at.html

http://www.flickriver.com/photos/tags/scraper/interesting/

http://www.furniture.ie/community/discussion/617/wanted-art-deco-furniture/

http://www.getintravel.com/adventure-travel-to-miami-south-beach-in-florida-united-states/beautiful-houses-in-art-deco-style-in-south-miami/

http://pinterest.com/pin/101894010291233611/

http://pinterest.com/pin/258534834828880805/

http://www.globaleventforum.com/hotels/south-beach-marriott

http://www.veniceclayartists.com/demolition-and-buffalo-karma-in-chennai/