Art Deco style was first introduced to the world in Paris, at the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes of 1925, which is how the name was derived.
Though it took about a decade to penetrate the rest of the western world, Art Deco’s sleek, modern lines marry modernism with fashion. A highly recognizable design approach, it has long been synonymous with sophistication and elegance and is well-represented in interior design, architecture, furniture, fashion, jewelry, and decorative art.
Black And White Art Deco Style
The high contrast of black and white underscores the opulence of Art Deco. In the kitchen, this color scheme can be applied easily, by merely accenting or framing one against the other, with white accents against a black cabinet, or by framing white cabinets with black trim.
Geometric Patterns And Round Edges
Patterns and shapes are the definitive signatures of Art Deco style. Geometric patterns can be repeated in floor tiles or the backsplash, using a checkerboard pattern, herringbone, or chevrons.
Round edges often feature prominently in Art Deco style and serve as a contrast to hard geometric angles. Curved fixtures, curved cabinetry, countertops, and arched doorways and windows are all ways to get the look.
If your budget doesn’t allow for curved custom cabinetry, you can shift your focus to the countertops or the kitchen island to get the same effect.
You can opt for modern materials like Corian, laminate, quartz, or natural stone in custom shapes to get that perfect Art Deco curve.
Put Some Shine On It
Art Deco was long on glamour and glitz. Many notable examples leveraged animal prints or beautiful decorative patterns coated with a high-gloss lacquer.
Some of the details you will find in classic Art Deco are decorative mirrors, fan motifs, sunbursts, and mirrored tile. Often, exotic woods were used and then finished to a high sheen, punctuated with black trim and hardware or darker-colored accents.
Bold Colors That Really Pop
Art Deco interiors are not always black and white. They often feature bold, vibrant colors in exotic shades that include peacock blue, emerald, orange, deep garnet reds, and bright yellows that, in the kitchen, are either part of the backsplash or the floor. On the backsplash, flora and fauna patterns figure prominently, and everything is glossy and reflective.
If you are unsure about permanently adding bold colors, think about accenting with accessories. These could include chair cushions, lampshades, or window treatments – anything that you can easily swap out if you change your mind.
The Stepped Profile
Perhaps one of the most recognizable aspects of Art Deco design is the stepped profile. We see it in everything from building facades to interior tile patterns and light fixtures, and in furniture design as well.
Conjuring The Silver Screen
Art Deco interiors recall the halcyon days of Hollywood, adding a sense of opulence and grandeur that was often seen in films during the 1920s through the 1940s. Chrome, brass, stainless steel, and gold-tone finishes are typical, and you’ll see mirror finishes on everything from furniture to fixtures.
In the kitchen, this is reflected in pulls, faucets, and handles that feature softly curving or angular geometric shapes and beveled glass cut to look like crystal.
To achieve this look in your kitchen, keep the cabinetry detailing simple and let the handles do the talking. A mirrored panel on your island adds to the glamour.
Symmetry Of Design
We achieve symmetry of design when patterns are mirrored along a central axis. You can get this look with pendant lights above your island and echo the look with your island stools.
If the shape of your kitchen isn’t conducive to symmetry, try to arrange the design asymmetrically. This allows your eyes to balance the objects which, though they may not be identical, have a similar visual quality that can be placed along a dimensional plane.
Uplighting
Cinema of the 1930s and 40s feature soft light and shadow, and you can replicate this with soft uplighting at the top of your cabinets or in crown molding.
Floor-To-Ceiling Style
Whether your style is understated or over-the-top, adding some Art Deco features to your kitchen will take it to the next level. With some carefully placed accessories, ornaments, accents, and bold features, you can quickly transform your kitchen into a hub of glamour that you’ll be proud to show off.
Are you considering an Art Deco makeover for your St. Louis kitchen? We’d love to help! Reach out today, and let’s start the conversation.
