AGE of OPULENCE

Article by Tara de la Motte

AGE of OPULENCE

For me one of the most stylish and fascinating period of the 20th century has to be the 'Art Deco' age (1910-39).It is amazing how this style sits so well within our homes and lives today in the 21st century.

The term 'Art Deco' came from the 1925 "Exposition Internationale des Art decoratifs et industrials Moderns" in Paris.This exhibition attracted all of the prominent artists, architects, craftsmen and designers of the period and showed their works.The exhibition promoted a bright new future for everyone, after the misery of World War I and the great depression that followed.

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

Art Deco style is easily recognised due to it's bold lines.This was a style that was considered radical compared to previous styles. The designs were grand, colourful, geometric and very streamlined.

The use of unexpected materials to make furniture such as mirrored glass and lacquer gave  furniture the '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 transportation.The movement was truly international.

Get the Look

Art Deco style is elegant without being too fuzzy. Achieving this look in our homes today is not a difficult task, all it takes is a little imagination.Take a little time to look around your local second -hand shops as there is a wealth of art deco furniture to be found.

Look out for furniture with straight edges and simple construction which are typical of this period.

Lloyd Loom furniture is very stylish and look good in the art deco home, anything from chairs, laundry baskets, ottomans to bedsides can be found locally in charity shops or even on e-bay. Lloyd Loom furniture bought second-hand can be refreshed with a light coat of paint and will add a touch of art deco glamour to your home.

MIRRORED ACCESSORIES

Mirrors were frequently used in art deco design, from mirrored cabinets to lamp bases. Today mirrored furniture and accessories have become popular again and have been reproduced to look like the originals of the art deco era.

ANIMAL PRINT

Splashes of animal print is a must in the deco home, in the form of throws, cushions or rugs. Zebra or cheetah print being the most popular.

LIGHTING

Add a sparkling chandelier or two, and your art deco home is nearly complete!

To keep in with this period choose wall lights in a fan or bowl shape. If you are looking for side lamps choose bases with figurines.

COCKTAILS

Finally let the 30's Hollywood glamour filter into your home with a cocktail party. No art deco home was ever complete without a cocktail cabinet and the cocktail hour meant people could dress up and feel like the stars of the silver screen in their homes.

Warm regards

Tara X