ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE
Article Published on: 11 MAY 2023 | www.demodemagazine.com
Art Deco architecture emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, a time of great change and innovation in design. It was an eclectic style that drew inspiration from various sources, including ancient Egyptian and Aztec art, as well as modern technology and industrial design. With its bold and beautiful forms, Art Deco architecture became a symbol of the optimism and glamour of the Jazz Age.
One of the defining features of Art Deco architecture is its use of geometric shapes and patterns. This can be seen in the use of stepped forms, zigzag patterns, and geometric motifs. These elements were often used to create dynamic and dramatic effects, with buildings appearing to soar upward and outward.
Another characteristic of Art Deco architecture is its use of materials. Architects often used new materials that were emerging at the time, such as concrete, steel, and glass. This allowed them to create buildings with large, open spaces and lots of natural light. It also enabled them to experiment with new forms and shapes, resulting in some of the most iconic buildings of the era.
One of the most famous examples of Art Deco architecture is the Empire State Building in New York City. Completed in 1931, it was the tallest building in the world at the time and remains an iconic symbol of the city. Its use of stepped forms and geometric patterns, as well as its impressive height, make it a stunning example of Art Deco design.
Another famous Art Deco building is the Chrysler Building, also in New York City. Completed in 1930, it was briefly the tallest building in the world before being surpassed by the Empire State Building. Its distinctive crown and use of stainless steel give it a unique and memorable appearance that has made it a beloved landmark of the city.
In addition to these iconic buildings, Art Deco architecture can be found around the world. In Miami, Florida, the Art Deco District is home to hundreds of buildings that were built in the 1920s and 1930s. These buildings feature pastel colors, streamlined forms, and geometric patterns that reflect the glamour and optimism of the era.
In Shanghai, China, the Bund is home to a number of Art Deco buildings that were built in the 1920s and 1930s. These buildings feature a mix of Art Deco and Chinese design elements, creating a unique and striking aesthetic.
In Mumbai, India, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is an impressive example of Art Deco architecture. Completed in 1887, it was designed by British architect Frederick William Stevens in a Victorian Gothic Revival style. However, it was later renovated in the 1930s and features a number of Art Deco elements, including the use of bold geometric patterns and streamlined forms.
Art Deco architecture also had a significant impact on interior design. The style was characterized by its use of bold colors and patterns, as well as its incorporation of new materials and technologies. Furniture, lighting, and decorative objects often featured sleek and streamlined designs, with an emphasis on form and function.
One of the most famous Art Deco interiors is the interior of the SS Normandie, a French ocean liner that was launched in 1935. The ship's interiors were designed by a team of French artists and designers, including Jean Dunand, Pierre Patout, and Eugene Printz. The interiors featured a mix of luxurious materials, such as marble, bronze, and lacquered wood, as well as sleek and streamlined designs that reflected the spirit of the Art Deco era.