Today, Art Deco embodies the spirit of the Jazz Age while still feeling classic and sophisticated.

Thats not to say Art Deco was entirely without historical influence.

Art Deco really flourished in the 1920s, which is the era most people associate it with.

art deco living room with green couch and gold furniture

Credit:James Nathan Schroder

The Chrysler Buildings spire and stylized bird gargoyles made of steel are an iconic example.

Parapets, spires, towers, and geometric cornices create multi-dimensional rooflines.

Emphasizing the vertical appearance is also part of Art Decos dimensionality.

green chairs and hexagon wallpaper with chandelier

Credit:Michael Garland

Symmetry

A significant trait at the heart of Art Deco architecture is balance.

The result of careful symmetry is a building that looks pleasingly balanced.

The Art Deco interior was lavish, striking, and elegant but not fussy.

art deco kitchen

Credit:Nathan Schroder

It was not monochromatic but often two, three, or more colors.

Black, white, gold, chrome, and brass were also common accents.

Stones likemarble and terrazzocovered floors and walls, creating drama either through inlaid designs or through their natural patterns.

dressing table between two wall sconces

Credit: John Bessler

Sumptuous textiles like velvet or shagreen covered furniture and draped windows.

Eye-Catching Lighting

From sconces tochandeliersto accent lamps, lighting aided in the lavishness of Art Deco interiors.

Pronounced uplighting and shadows from the sculptural designs also helps create contrast and drama in the room.

Wall Murals

Like the facade decoration, murals created stunning moments in Art Deco interiors.

Sweeping Curves

The plethora of hard angles makescurvy accent piecesa dramatic must-have for Art Deco interiors.