The beauty of design is that it allows us to draw from different eras, cultures, and movements to create unique living spaces. Art Deco, a style that emerged in the early 20th century, combines modernism with fine craftsmanship and rich materials. With its bold geometric shapes, vibrant colours, and sumptuous details, this style offers a touch of luxury and glamour that can greatly enhance any room. This article will explore how you can incorporate Art Deco elements into your contemporary UK apartment.
Unequivocal Use of Bold Geometric Patterns
Art Deco is renowned for its bold use of geometric shapes and patterns. This aesthetic principle can be introduced into a modern apartment through various means. Wallpapers, rugs, or even the arrangement of furniture can create the geometric patterns characteristic of Art Deco.
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For instance, consider adding a geometrically patterned wallpaper to a feature wall in your living room. Alternatively, you could opt for a large area rug with a geometric pattern to anchor your living space. If you prefer subtler methods, arranging your furniture in symmetrical, angular formations can evoke the geometric theme of Art Deco. Remember, Art Deco is all about being bold, so don’t be afraid to experiment with daring patterns and designs.
The Power of Vibrant Colours
Art Deco is not a style that shies away from bright, vibrant colours. These can be incorporated through your choice of wall colours, furniture, or accessories.
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Bold, saturated hues like emerald green, royal blue, or deep red can create a dramatic, luxurious feel in a room. For a more modern look, consider using these colours as accents against a neutral background. For example, a bold emerald green velvet sofa against a room with white walls and dark wood flooring can create a striking contrast.
Remember, while Art Deco embraces bold colours, it also appreciates balance and harmony. So, ensure that your chosen colours complement each other and the overall design of your room.
Luxurious Materials and Finishes
Art Deco style is synonymous with luxury and glamour. This is largely due to the opulent materials often used, including brass, gold, velvet, and glass.
In your modern UK apartment, consider incorporating a brass or gold light fitting or mirror. These materials were commonly used in Art Deco design and add a layer of sophistication and luxury to a room. Velvet upholstery, another popular material in this era, can add a touch of glamour to your living space. Consider a velvet armchair or cushions in bold, rich colours to add depth and texture.
Glass, particularly smoked or tinted, was also a popular choice in the Art Deco era. A simple way to incorporate this into your design could be through a smoked glass coffee table or lamp.
Inspired Wall Art and Furniture Style
Art Deco was more than a design movement; it was also a significant era in art history. As such, artwork and furniture from or inspired by this era can greatly enhance the Art Deco feel of a room.
Consider adding a few Art Deco inspired prints or paintings to your walls. Look for pieces that feature bold geometric designs, stylised natural forms, or the glamorous scenes of the Roaring Twenties.
In terms of furniture, look for pieces that capture the sleek lines, geometric shapes, and luxurious materials of Art Deco design. This could range from a bold geometric coffee table to a sleek and elegant sideboard.
Incorporating Modern Design Elements
While an entirely Art Deco room might not be to everyone’s taste, the beauty of this style is that it can seamlessly blend with more contemporary design elements.
For instance, modern minimalistic furniture can provide a balance to the bold patterns and colours of Art Deco. Similarly, modern light fixtures can complement the geometric shapes of Art Deco design. It’s all about finding a balance that works for your space and your personal style.
Incorporating Art Deco style into your contemporary UK apartment is not only a way to bring a sense of history and glamour into your home. It’s also an opportunity to express your creativity in designing a space that reflects your personal style. Remember to have fun with it – design should always be an enjoyable process.
Incorporating Art Nouveau Elements with Art Deco
Art Deco and Art Nouveau might have different origins, but they share some common elements that can beautifully complement each other in your contemporary UK apartment. In fact, the earlier Art Nouveau movement heavily influenced the development of Art Deco.
Art Nouveau, which translates to "new art," thrived between 1890 and 1910. It is known for its organic shapes and intricate details, directly contrasting the bold geometric shapes of Art Deco. By incorporating Art Nouveau elements into your Art Deco living space, you create a dynamic blend of historical design styles that add visual interest and depth to your interior design.
Consider introducing Art Nouveau with accessories or small pieces of furniture. Look for pieces that feature organic shapes such as curves, arcs, and floral motifs. For example, a Tiffany lamp—a classic Art Nouveau piece—can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your Art Deco living room.
In terms of colours, Art Nouveau tends towards softer, earthy tones, which can bring a soothing contrast to the bold colours of Art Deco. Intricate detailing, another characteristic of Art Nouveau, can add a unique touch to your space. This could be incorporated through an intricately patterned rug or an Art Nouveau inspired mirror.
Lastly, an important element of Art Nouveau is its focus on craftsmanship. Whenever possible, opt for handcrafted pieces instead of mass-produced items. This not only ensures quality but also adds to the authenticity and charm of your Art Deco interior.
Conclusion: Crafting Your Unique Art Deco Living Space
Incorporating Art Deco style into a contemporary UK apartment is an exciting design challenge, allowing you to create a space that combines historical elegance with modern practicality. Remember, Art Deco is all about bold geometric patterns, vibrant colours, and luxurious materials. However, it’s also about balance and harmony.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different elements, from Art Nouveau accessories to modern furniture, to create a look that’s uniquely yours. An Art Deco living room can be as minimalistic or as extravagant as you want it to be. The key is to remain true to the ethos of Art Deco—luxury, glamour, and sophistication—while adapting it to your personal style and the demands of modern living.
Whether you go for a bold geometric wallpaper, a sleek Art Deco inspired coffee table, or a decadent velvet armchair, remember that the ultimate goal is to create a living space where you feel comfortable, inspired, and at home. After all, interior design is not just about creating a beautiful space—it’s about creating a space that resonates with you and tells your unique story. Embrace the journey and have fun transforming your apartment into your own Art Deco haven.
Image credit: Please note, as per our policy, all images used in this article are sourced from reputable online platforms and attributed accurately to respect the original artists and designers who have contributed to the beauty of Art Deco interiors.
