The Chrysler Building is a prominent Art Deco structure in Midtown Manhattan, completed in 1930 by William Van Alen for the Chrysler Corporation. At 1,046 feet, it was once the tallest brick building in the world. Its spire and car-inspired details reflect the Roaring Twenties. The stainless steel crown features arches and triangular windows, enhancing the skyline. Although it lost its title shortly after completion, it remains a beloved landmark, known for its craftsmanship and gargoyle sculptures resembling Chrysler cars. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976 and designated a NYC Landmark in 1978, it embodies New York's architectural heritage and the American Dream.

The Art Deco Movement and Its Design Features

The Art Deco movement emerged in the early 20th century, finding its peak in the 1920s and 1930s. This influential style is characterised by its unique blend of modernity and tradition, reflecting the societal changes of the time, including advancements in technology, industrialisation, and a post-war desire for luxury and elegance.

Key Characteristics of Art Deco Design

Geometric Shapes

Art Deco is renowned for its bold geometric forms and patterns. These include zigzags, chevrons, and stylised floral motifs, often arranged in symmetrical designs. The use of sharp angles and lines gives the movement a sense of modernity and dynamism.

Rich Materials and Colours

The movement favoured opulent materials such as chrome, glass, and marble. Often, these materials were combined to create striking contrasts. Colour schemes were equally lavish, with deep, vibrant hues complemented by metallic accents—gold, silver, and bronze were particularly popular.

Decorative Arts

Art Deco extended beyond architecture to include various decorative arts, such as furniture, textiles, and ceramics. The focus was on craftsmanship and detail, with pieces often featuring intricate inlays, bold patterns, and innovative forms.

Architecture

Pioneers of this style played a crucial role in shaping urban landscapes and interior designs during the early 20th century.

One of the foremost pioneers of Art Deco architecture is the French architect Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann. Known for his opulent and meticulously detailed interiors, Ruhlmann's work exemplifies the extravagant use of materials and the emphasis on craftsmanship that typifies Art Deco. His designs often incorporated exotic woods, polished metals, and intricate marquetry, which set new standards for high-end commercial and residential spaces.

My favourite example of Art Deco architecture is the Chrysler Building (above) by William Van Alen. Another key figure is Raymond Hood, who was instrumental in several prominent Art Deco projects, including the Rockefeller Center. Hood’s work not only showcased the stylistic features of Art Deco but also incorporated innovative urban planning concepts, balancing aesthetics with functionality.

In the UK, the work of architects like Sir Edwin Lutyens and Oliver Hill helped to propagate the Art Deco style. Hill’s exterior and interior designs reflected the streamlined forms and decorative motifs associated with the movement, contributing to the distinctive architectural character of British cities in the interwar period.

Art Deco and Art Nouveau

Art Nouveau emerged in the late 19th century and gained popularity until the early 20th century, roughly from 1890 to 1910. This movement is recognised for its organic forms, flowing lines, and intricate natural motifs. Art Nouveau sought to integrate art with everyday life, embodying a sense of harmony between the decorative arts and nature. Key features include asymmetry, curvilinear designs, and a preference for floral and plant-inspired elements. Artists and designers sought to break away from historical styles, creating a new aesthetic that reflected the modern age while embracing craftsmanship.

Charles Rennie Mackintosh stands as a pivotal figure bridging the two movements, particularly within the realm of design. While his work is often associated with Art Nouveau due to its organic forms and decorative elements, he also prefigures some Art Deco characteristics through his use of geometry and abstraction. Mackintosh's style incorporated floral motifs but favoured a more simplistic and structural approach, which resonates with the modernist ethos of Art Deco. His iconic Glasgow School style demonstrates elements of both movements but is distinguished by its unique integration of colour, line, and form.

Cultural Inspirations

Art Deco amalgamated influences from various cultures, which is evident in its eclectic style. Elements from ancient Egypt, Aztec and Maya civilisations, as well as African art, found their way into the design lexicon, creating a rich tapestry of international aesthetics.

INGOT 47 Designs

Ingot 47 Horizon drop earrings and pendant combines design features of the Art Deco style with an Aztec influence.

The Role of Typography

Typography in the Art Deco era was distinctive and visually striking. Bold, sans-serif fonts were common, often embellished with geometric shapes and lines that complemented the overall design ethos of simplicity and elegance.

Applications of Art Deco Design

Art Deco has left a lasting legacy in various sectors, notably in architecture, where iconic structures like the Chrysler Building in New York and the Palais de Tokyo in Paris exemplify its grandeur. In interior design, the style’s emphasis on luxury has inspired countless high-end settings, featuring mirrored surfaces, plush fabrics, and ornate lighting fixtures.

Moreover, the influence of Art Deco can be seen in fashion and graphic design, where the aesthetic continues to inspire contemporary creations that echo the elegance and sophistication of the original movement.

Conclusion

The Art Deco movement stands as a symbol of modernity and elegance, encapsulating a unique period of history. Its distinctive design features convey a spirit of innovation and luxury that remains relevant today. As we explore spaces and objects from this era, we continue to appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry that define Art Deco, making it a perennial favourite in the world of design.

Images (From top left to bottom right):

Interior Glasgow School of Art by Charles Rennie Mackintosh/Charles Rennie Mackintosh desk and chair/The Midland Hotel, Morecambe by Oliver Hill/Emile Jacques Ruhlmann Furniture/Interior Rockefeller Plaza by Raymond Hood/Country Life Centre, Tavistock Street, London by Edwin Lutyens