Styles
September 19, 2024
3 min
Art Deco Decadence
Distinctive and opulent, Art Deco is an influential style that emerged in the early 20th century. Characterized by a combination of various artistic influences, geometric shapes, bold colors, and luxurious materials, Art Deco influences can be found in everything from architecture to fashion to art.
Art Deco Origins
The Art Deco style draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including ancient Egyptian, Aztec, and other non-Western artistic traditions. Motifs like stylized animals, sunbursts, and geometric patterns borrowed from these influences were commonly incorporated.
Alight with Art Deco Brilliance
One of the brightest spots of the Art Deco style is lighting. Fixtures dripping with glamour and sophistication set the stage for a look that shines. Creating ambiance and serving as a focal point for the style, the right light fixtures are essential to any Art Deco room. Here’s what to look for as you choose your Art Deco fixture.
Geometric Patterns and Shapes - Look for the use of sharp angles, large shapes and repeating patterns in your light fixture. Shades full of shape or glass panels in bold form can bring the Art Deco look home.
Luxurious Materials - Art Deco is luxurious to the eye and to the touch. Materials including metals like chrome, brass and stainless steel are hallmarks of the high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail that are inherent in this style. Look for lights that have the details for a flawless, fashionable, turn-of-the-century look.
Sleek, Streamlined Design - Linear forms are a common feature in Art Deco design. Buildings, furniture, and other Art Deco objects seem to have a sense of movement and flow, drawing your eye from one point to the next.
Art Deco Lights
To recreate the glamour and sophistication of Art Deco, the right type of light can make all the difference.
Chandeliers and Pendants - Art Deco chandeliers are elaborate and feature geometric designs, like the soft leaf curves of the Petal Chandelier. Materials like chrome, glass, and crystal are popular choices, contributing to a luxurious and opulent feel.
Wall Sconces - The round, ribbed glass shade of Ciona was inspired by ancient Egyptian columns, just like initial Art Deco designs. The Serene Wall Sconce combines Art Deco shapes with Mid-Century style.
Ceiling Fans - Yes, even fans can get in on this stunning style. The Brahm™ Ceiling Fan has a metal cylinder for its base, and with multiple finishes, it is the epitome of Art Deco comfort.
Indirect Lights - Using lighting to accent Art Deco décor is a beautiful way to let your style shine. Using tape lights, picture lights, sconces like Odensa and task-focused lights allow you to elevate the look of your space while highlighting specific pieces of signature Art Deco style.
Art Deco for Any Room
Whether you’re going all in on Art Deco or simply incorporating its accents, maintaining a cohesive aesthetic across your home is crucial, striking a balance between unity and avoiding an overly uniform appearance.
Living Room - A focal point chandelier or pendant light in the Art Deco style can be placed above the seating area to act as both a light source and a piece of décor. Additionally, wall sconces create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Dining Room - A statement chandelier often serves as the primary piece of decoration in a dining room. Combined with a buffet lamp and downlights on a dimmer, your dining room can set the table for everything from a decadent party to a romantic dinner.
Bedroom - Sometimes overlooked in terms of style, the bedroom where your family spends a lot of time, so it only makes sense to decorate it just as much as the rest of your home. Place elegant wall sconces or table lamps on each side of the bed to blend an Art Deco look with the function of a soft, calming light.
If Art Deco is a look you love, remember that light fixtures are more than just a way to illuminate your space, they’re a decoration, accent and spotlight on your style.