Gatsby-Inspired Homes With Art Deco Delight

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The Roaring Twenties, an era of opulence, glamour, and unbridled creativity, continues to captivate our imagination. The iconic novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, "The Great Gatsby," has been immortalized in various adaptations, including Baz Luhrmann's 2013 film. This cinematic masterpiece not only brought the era's essence to life but also reignited a passion for Art Deco design. In this article, we will delve into the world of Gatsby-inspired homes, exploring how Art Deco principles can be seamlessly integrated into modern living spaces.

The Art Deco Movement: A Brief History

Art Deco, which emerged in the 1920s and flourished until the 1940s, was a revolutionary design movement that sought to combine modernity with luxury. The term "Art Deco" is derived from the French phrase "les arts décoratifs," which translates to "the decorative arts." This style was characterized by its use of geometric shapes, metallic materials, and bold colors. It was a synthesis of various disciplines, including architecture, interior design, and visual arts, aimed at creating a sense of extravagance and glamour.

Key Elements of Art Deco

1. Geometric Shapes and Linear Patterns: Art Deco is renowned for its use of geometric shapes such as chevrons, hexagons, and zigzags. These patterns were often used in wallpapers, textiles, and architectural elements to create a sense of dynamism and modernity.

2. Vivid Colors: The palette of Art Deco is rich and vibrant, featuring bold colors like golds, greens, and blues. These hues were often used in conjunction with metallic accents to add an extra layer of luxury.

3. Lavish Materials and Craftsmanship: Art Deco celebrated high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. Furniture was often upholstered in plush velvets or silks, while decorative items featured intricate inlays and marquetry.

4. Ornamentation: Unlike modern minimalist designs, Art Deco embraced ornamentation. Radiant sunburst designs and intricate motifs were common in this style, adding a touch of grandeur to any space.

5. Metals and Chrome: Metallic accents were a hallmark of Art Deco. From polished metals to chrome finishes, these elements added a sleek, sophisticated look to any room.

Transforming Your Home into a Gatsby-Inspired Oasis

To create a Gatsby-inspired home, you need to incorporate elements that evoke the opulence and glamour of the Roaring Twenties. Here are six simple steps to help you transform your living space:

1. Introduce Art Deco Artwork

Art Deco artwork is a defining feature of this era. Look for pieces that feature geometric shapes, straight lines, and sharp edges. These prints can be used as wall art or even as decorative accents on furniture.

Example: A metallic and teal wallpaper pattern from Graham & Brown is perfect for adding an Art Deco touch to a powder room or accent wall. This pattern features geometric shapes that are quintessential to the Art Deco style.

2. Incorporate Mirrored Furniture

Mirrored furniture was a staple in high-society homes during the 1920s. It added an element of elegance and sophistication to any room. Consider adding a mirrored chest or table to your living space.

Example: A mirrored chest from Ethan Allen can create an elegant and stylish boudoir with Hollywood flair.

3. Use Silky Fabrics

The early Hollywood influence on the 1920s is evident in the popularity of shiny, luxe fabrics like silks and satins. These fabrics add a luxurious feel to any room.

Example: A metallic throw pillow from Crate and Barrel is an excellent way to introduce silky fabrics into your home decor. The pillow's metallic finish adds a touch of glamour and sophistication.

4. Embrace Geometric Shapes

One of the most definitive styles of the era was the use of geometric shapes in everything from fashion to architecture to interior design. Incorporate these shapes into your decor through wallpapers, textiles, or even furniture.

Example: A metallic and teal wallpaper pattern from Graham & Brown features geometric shapes that are perfect for adding an Art Deco touch to a powder room or accent wall.

5. Add Polished Metals

Falling in line with the shiny fabrics, glossy paints, and reflective surfaces of the period is the popularity of polished metals. Add polished metal accents like standing binoculars or decorative vases to create a masculine chic decor.

Example: A set of 1920s standing binoculars from Restoration Hardware is a unique way to pay homage to the Gatsby era and create masculine chic decor.

6. Incorporate Glamorous Lighting Options

Glamorous lighting options were a hallmark of Art Deco design. Look for chandeliers or sconces that feature intricate designs and metallic finishes.

Example: The Celestial Chandelier from Corbett Lighting is an excellent choice for creating an Art Deco-inspired dining room. This chandelier features a sleek design with metallic accents that add a touch of glamour.

Designing Your Gatsby House: Practical Tips

While transforming your home into a Gatsby-inspired oasis sounds exciting, it requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here are some practical tips to help you achieve this look:

Pattern and Colour

When it comes to Art Deco design, pattern and color are first on the list. Think bold, vibrant hues like rich greens and opulent golds. These colors infuse energy and luxury into spaces.

Example: A metallic and teal wallpaper pattern from Graham & Brown features geometric shapes that are quintessential to the Art Deco style. This pattern adds a sophisticated vibe to any room.

Finishes

In terms of finishes, think glamour: gold leaf, high-gloss lacquer, and geometric marquetry are all characteristic of this revolutionary style. Combine furniture with sympathetic carpeting and matching wall coverings to create a cohesive look.

Example: A lacquered piece like a chest from Ethan Allen can give your space an opulent touch. The high-gloss finish evokes a sense of decor glamour and drama.

Layering Luxurious Products

Art Deco design is all about layering different types of luxurious products. Handcrafted rugs and carpets or silk or velvet curtains can add depth and elegance to any room.

Example: A Wendy Morrison Designs Phoenix rug paired with faux sheepskin throws on ghost chairs creates a perfect complement for an Art Deco-inspired dining room.

Elegant Light Fixtures

Elegant light fixtures are crucial in creating an Art Deco ambiance. Choose fixtures that match the ambience of the living room.

Example: The Celestial Chandelier from Corbett Lighting features a sleek design with metallic accents that add a touch of glamour to any room.

Modern Interpretations of Art Deco

While traditional Art Deco design can be quite bold and opulent, it can also be adapted to modern tastes. Here are some ways to incorporate Art Deco elements into contemporary interiors:

Geometric Forms and Linear Patterns

Modern interiors often incorporate geometric shapes and symmetrical patterns subtly paying homage to Art Deco's love for geometry. Chevrons in wallpapers or hexagonal tiles in bathrooms are contemporary interpretations of Art Deco's geometric motifs.

Example: A chevron patterned wallpaper can add an Art Deco touch to any room without being too overwhelming.

Vivid Colours

Art Deco's use of bold, vibrant hues continues to influence modern design. Rich greens and opulent golds can infuse energy and luxury into spaces.

Example: A metallic and teal wallpaper pattern from Graham & Brown features geometric shapes that are quintessential to the Art Deco style. This pattern adds a sophisticated vibe to any room.

Lavish Materials and Craftsmanship

Modern design has a penchant for luxury, which can be attributed in part to Art Deco's love for high-quality materials and detailed craftsmanship. Plush velvets of furniture or intricate inlays of wooden flooring can add an extra layer of opulence.

Example: A plush velvet chair with chrome legs can instantly elevate a space. The combination of luxurious materials and sleek metallic accents creates a chic and sophisticated look.

Creating a Gatsby-Inspired Dining Room

A dining room is an essential part of any home, and transforming it into a Gatsby-inspired space can be both fun and rewarding. Here’s how you can achieve this look:

Inspiration

The inspiration for your Gatsby-inspired dining room should be heavy on Art Deco influences with opulent finishes and ornate elements balanced with modern touches.

Example: A dining room featuring an Italian Verde Luana marble dining table as the centerpiece can set the tone for an opulent space. Pair this with a bold print wallpaper like the Belarte Studios Gemoetric Shades design in Tea*l for a sophisticated vibe.

Painting Trim

Painting all the trim black can tie into other black trim elements in your home, creating a cohesive look. This choice also adds a touch of sophistication to the room.

Example: Painting all the trim black in the dining room can create a dramatic effect when paired with bold wallpaper and luxurious furniture.

Adding Decorative Elements

Decorative elements like faux sheepskin throws on ghost chairs and vintage decanters can add texture and elegance to the space. These items can be thrifted or sourced from unique places like Facebook Marketplace.

Example: Faux sheepskin throws on ghost chairs paired with vintage decanters create a perfect complement for an Art Deco-inspired dining room.

Lighting Fixtures

Lighting fixtures play a crucial role in creating an Art Deco ambiance. Choose fixtures that feature intricate designs and metallic finishes.

Example: The Celestial Chandelier from Corbett Lighting is an excellent choice for creating an Art Deco-inspired dining room. This chandelier features a sleek design with metallic accents that add a touch of glamour.

Conclusion

Creating a Gatsby-inspired home with Art Deco elements is not just about nostalgia; it's about embracing luxury, glamour, and creativity. By incorporating geometric shapes, metallic accents, and luxurious materials into your decor, you can transform any space into an opulent oasis reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties. Whether you're looking to create a statement piece or simply add some chic glamour to your home, Art Deco design offers endless possibilities for modern interiors.

In conclusion, Gatsby-inspired homes with Art Deco delights are more than just a design trend; they represent a lifestyle that values elegance, sophistication, and the pursuit of beauty. So why not open your doors to the 1920s and feel the groove of this timeless era? With these practical tips and inspiration from modern interpretations of Art Deco design, you'll be well on your way to creating a home that exudes supreme confidence and timeless charm.