You know the saying, what’s old is new again? That refers, of course, to the trends that get recycled and become fashionable again. This happens usually every 20 years or so in fashion, interior design, and other cultural trends. But there are some styles that stay cool forever. Art deco is one of those.
If you are wondering what art deco is and how you can incorporate the style into living room furniture ideas, you’re in the right place. We’re going to discuss the history and characteristics of art deco, and highlight some living room furniture that will add a lot of character and beauty to your home décor.
What is art deco?
The art deco period started in the early 1900s. Specifically, it can be traced to the 1925 International Exposition of Modern Industrial and Decorative Arts in Paris, France, (or the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes”. “Expos” were once a popular convention, because they were a place to showcase all of the exciting new designs, inventions, discoveries, and trends from around the world, all in one place. From expos, ideas were able to spread globally.
One of the main influential philosophical factors of the art deco movement was the optimism that took hold of the world after the “great war” or, as we now know it, the First World War. Furniture designers, artists, and other influential people wanted to reflect this shift in the world into their work. Making life and material goods a mirror of the progressive thinking, vibrant colours, and spirited design that most people were feeling after the horrors of war.
What are the characteristics of art deco?
People often think of the iconic look of the Roaring 20s when they conjure up images of art deco design. Fashion statements like women with short, sleek haircuts. Perhaps wearing fitted dresses with beading and fringe, lounging in parlours with sharp designs and mirrored finishes. Other characteristics include geometric shapes, rare and exotic woods like zebra and mahogany, jewel-tone colours like emerald green, metal accents and mirrored finishes. Art deco designers created one-of-a-kind pieces. Oftentimes made of rare and expensive materials like rich woods and polished metals. As a result, these rarities quickly became popular among more affluent society members.
In interior designs that add art deco finishes into living room couches and living room sofas, you might find things like:
- Trapezoidal shapes
- Zigzag or chevron patterns
- Sweeping curves
- Sunburst shapes
- Triangular shapes
- Stylized wildlife patterns – zebra print is a very popular art deco pattern
What does art deco living room furniture look like?
Perhaps you are thinking about incorporating art deco into your home and need some living room furniture ideas. Some of the best Canadian sofa manufacturers create living room sofas and couches that incorporate elements of art deco design.
Look for sofa that incorporate clean, interesting lines. Or, if you’re not ready to buy a jewel-green couch, you can add accent pieces like zebra print throw pillows, an accent wall with cool, geometric wallpaper, or a statement piece like art deco lighting fixtures or side tables. You might be surprised at how quickly an accent piece can change the look and feel of your room.
Where can you find art deco design?
In fact, one of the most iconic buildings in Vancouver is designed in the art deco style. Vancouver City Hall was designed and built in the mid 1930s; this stand out building is a favourite among residents and tourists alike.
For living room furniture like couches and sofas, some of the best sofa manufacturers in Canada offer designs that incorporate art deco design elements. Updating your living room furniture is a great way to freshen the look of your home. It’s also a simple way to give your space some new life without breaking the bank.
If you are looking for living room couches or sofas that are made by manufacturers in Canada, we would love to help you find what you are looking for. We love seeing people have fun with their interior design by adding creative, fun, bold elements to their home.