How to decorate with Art Deco accent furniture is a question many design enthusiasts ask when they want to add a touch of glamour and sophistication to their spaces. Art Deco, with its bold geometric patterns, luxurious materials, and timeless elegance, can transform any room into a statement of style. Whether you’re a seasoned decorator or just starting out, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to incorporate Art Deco accent furniture into your home seamlessly.
1. Understand the Art Deco Aesthetic
Before you start decorating with Art Deco accent furniture, it’s essential to understand the core elements of the Art Deco style. This design movement, which originated in the 1920s and 1930s, is all about luxury, symmetry, and boldness. Think geometric shapes, rich materials like velvet and chrome, and a mix of modern and traditional influences.
When choosing Art Deco accent furniture, look for pieces that embody these characteristics. A sleek, geometric side table or a velvet-upholstered armchair can instantly elevate your space. The key is to balance the boldness of Art Deco with the rest of your decor to create a cohesive look.
2. Start with a Statement Piece
One of the easiest ways to decorate with Art Deco accent furniture is to start with a statement piece. This could be a bold, geometric coffee table, a mirrored console, or a luxurious velvet sofa. A statement piece not only anchors the room but also sets the tone for the rest of your decor.
For example, if you choose a mirrored console as your statement piece, you can build around it with complementary Art Deco accents like metallic lamps, geometric rugs, and bold artwork. The idea is to let the statement piece shine while the other elements support and enhance it.
3. Mix Materials for a Luxurious Feel
Art Deco is all about luxury, and one way to achieve this is by mixing materials. Think chrome, glass, velvet, and exotic woods. When decorating with Art Deco accent furniture, don’t be afraid to combine different textures and finishes to create a rich, layered look.
For instance, pair a chrome-framed coffee table with a velvet-upholstered sofa and a glass-top side table. The contrast between the materials will add depth and interest to your space, making it feel more luxurious and inviting.
4. Incorporate Geometric Patterns
Geometric patterns are a hallmark of Art Deco design. When decorating with Art Deco accent furniture, look for pieces that feature bold, geometric shapes. This could be a rug with a chevron pattern, a side table with a hexagonal base, or a lamp with a triangular shade.
You can also incorporate geometric patterns through accessories like throw pillows, artwork, and even wallpaper. The key is to keep the patterns consistent with the Art Deco aesthetic, avoiding anything too busy or chaotic.
5. Use Mirrors to Add Glamour
Mirrors are a staple of Art Deco design, and they can be a powerful tool when decorating with Art Deco accent furniture. A large, ornate mirror can serve as a focal point in a room, reflecting light and making the space feel larger and more open.
Consider placing a mirror above a console table or behind a sofa to create a sense of depth and glamour. You can also opt for mirrored furniture, like a side table or cabinet, to add a touch of Art Deco elegance to your space.
6. Choose Bold, Luxurious Colours
Art Deco is known for its bold, luxurious colour palette. Think rich jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red, as well as metallics like gold, silver, and bronze. When decorating with Art Deco accent furniture, don’t shy away from these vibrant hues.
You can incorporate bold colours through your furniture, like a deep blue velvet armchair or a gold-framed mirror, or through accessories like throw pillows, curtains, and artwork. The key is to balance the bold colours with neutral tones to avoid overwhelming the space.
7. Layer Lighting for Drama
Lighting plays a crucial role in Art Deco design, and it can make or break your decor. When decorating with Art Deco accent furniture, consider layering different types of lighting to create a dramatic effect. This could include a statement chandelier, table lamps with geometric bases, and wall sconces with metallic finishes.
The goal is to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that highlights your Art Deco pieces. Use dimmers to control the intensity of the light and create different moods throughout the day.
8. Add Art Deco Accessories
Accessories are the finishing touch when decorating with Art Deco accent furniture. Look for pieces that complement your furniture and enhance the overall aesthetic. This could include sculptural vases, metallic figurines, and bold artwork.
You can also incorporate Art Deco-inspired textiles, like a geometric-patterned throw or a velvet cushion. The key is to choose accessories that add to the luxurious, glamorous feel of the Art Deco style without overwhelming the space.
9. Balance Boldness with Simplicity
While Art Deco is known for its boldness, it’s important to balance this with simplicity. When decorating with Art Deco accent furniture, avoid overcrowding the space with too many statement pieces. Instead, focus on a few key pieces and let them shine.
For example, if you have a bold, geometric coffee table, keep the rest of the furniture simple and understated. This will create a balanced, harmonious look that allows the Art Deco pieces to stand out.
10. Personalise Your Space
Finally, don’t forget to personalise your space when decorating with Art Deco accent furniture. While it’s important to stay true to the Art Deco aesthetic, your home should also reflect your personality and style. Incorporate pieces that have meaning to you, whether it’s a family heirloom or a piece of art you love.
By adding personal touches, you’ll create a space that feels uniquely yours while still embracing the glamour and sophistication of Art Deco design.
Conclusion
Decorating with Art Deco accent furniture is all about embracing boldness, luxury, and timeless elegance. By understanding the core elements of the Art Deco style and following these tips, you can create a space that feels both glamorous and inviting. Whether you’re starting with a statement piece or adding the finishing touches with accessories, the key is to balance boldness with simplicity and let your personality shine through. So go ahead, embrace the Art Deco aesthetic, and transform your home into a masterpiece of design.