Classic Hardwood

Art Deco was a short-lived period of furniture design, but it left its mark in a big way. In this two part blog post we will be exploring what makes art deco so special, why its original life was cut short and how modern designers have suddenly grasped its inspiration for a renascence.

Inspired by post World War 1 modern excesses the audacious designs were brought to an abrupt end with the outbreak of World War 2.

Unlike many daring periods of furniture designs, Art deco has seen a revival. Not just with collectors of the period, or antiques dealers trying to shift some of their old junk, but with highly acclaimed furniture designers.

The reason Art Deco furniture is popular again now is that there has been a general return to simple geometric forms in all areas of design. People are looking for the familiar in such turbulent economic times, and good quality reproductions of Art Deco furniture can give a room a retro, yet luxurious feel.

There is a pleasing synergy of minimalism and traditional designs when it comes to Art Deco, and when used correctly it can be slotted into rooms that have an element of either in.

Many of today’s interior and furniture designers, such as Nancy Corzine, Barbara Barry, Jeffrey Bilhuber and Richard Mishaan, use it in their work.

Geometric shapes, split with zigzag stripes, or hot coloured stars can make bold statements and provide interesting focal points. A deco piece will always drawer the eye, even when you have stunning paintings or antiques in along side it.

In part two of our look at art deco furniture we will look in more detail at the work of modern designers who have embraced the art deco world.