Age of Opulence

One of the most stylish and fascinating periods of the 20th century is the Art Deco age (1910–39), and it is remarkable how well the style sits within our homes and lives in the 21st century.

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The term 'Art Deco' comes from the 1925 "Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes" in Paris, which brought together and showed the works of the period's most prominent artists, architects, craftsmen and designers. The exhibition promoted a bright new future for everyone after the misery of World War I.

It was a time of optimism and wealth: the age of jazz, women’s right to vote, the arrival of the radio and the first transatlantic flight. The period also gave birth to ground-breaking artistic movements such as cubism and surrealism.

Art Deco is easily recognised by its bold lines. Compared with the styles before it, it was considered radical: grand, colourful, geometric and highly streamlined.

Unexpected materials such as mirrored glass and lacquer gave furniture its 'wow' factor. Art Deco interiors were sparkling, bright, modern, functional and extravagant.

Deco design influenced every field, from art and architecture to jewellery, fashion and transport. The movement was truly international.

Get the Look

Art Deco style is elegant without being fussy, and achieving the look at home today takes only a little imagination. Take time to explore your local second-hand shops, where there is a wealth of Art Deco furniture to be found.

Look out for furniture with straight edges and simple construction, typical of the period.

Lloyd Loom furniture is very stylish and suits the Art Deco home. Chairs, laundry baskets, ottomans and bedside tables can all be found locally in charity shops, or on eBay. A light coat of paint refreshes second-hand Lloyd Loom and adds a touch of Art Deco glamour.

MIRRORED ACCESSORIES

Mirrors were used everywhere in Art Deco design, from mirrored cabinets to lamp bases. Mirrored furniture and accessories are popular again today, and reproductions are made to look like the originals of the era.

ANIMAL PRINT

Splashes of animal print are a must in the Deco home, in throws, cushions or rugs. Zebra and cheetah prints are the most popular.

LIGHTING

Add a sparkling chandelier or two, and your Art Deco home is nearly complete.

To stay true to the period, choose wall lights in a fan or bowl shape, and for side lamps, bases with figurines.

COCKTAILS

Finally, let 1930s Hollywood glamour into your home with a cocktail party. No Art Deco home was complete without a cocktail cabinet, and the cocktail hour meant people could dress up and feel like stars of the silver screen in their own homes.