Small Space Decorating: Art Deco Design Ideas

Small space decorating using Art Deco influences can transform a room from bland to fabulous. Born primarily from French art design, the Art Deco movement of the 1920’s and 30’s focused on sleek geometric lines, bold colors and highly stylized figures such as animals and plants. Archeology and new strides in aviation sparked new ideas in the art world which in turn, spilled over into domestic life. Decoration of the period invoked a sense of sophistication, elegance and glamour. With a few well chosen changes, your small space can be revamped to reflect the energy of the time.

Get Inspired

Use your resources to develop a feel for the era. Visit your local library for Cubist art and design books featuring period styles. Another surprising but wonderful reference is Vogue magazine from the 1930’s. Or rent a few vintage movies and immerse yourself in the culture of the time period. Additionally, a quick Internet search can provide a wealth of imagery with just a few clicks of a mouse.

Focus Attention to Certain Places

Start with one period or reproduction piece that you love and build upon it. The Art Deco period relied heavily on stepped and curved shapes. So, if you have a great couch with rounded corners, try adding a small palm tree to the side or a geometric styled mirror above it to pull the look together without overpowering the room.

Color Sensation

While the Art Deco period utilized bold colors such as purples, oranges and greens, use them sparingly in your small space since darker colors make a room feel smaller. Instead, opt for a neutral wall color and dress it up with light lines close to the ceiling and geometric corner stencils. Or use a bold rug with geometric shapes instead to get your color fix.

Art Deco Light Fixtures

Light fixtures made of chrome, Bakelite and colored glass were popular choices of the time. Consider replacing your existing fixtures with streamlined chevrons or tiered wall sconces to add decorative interest without using valuable space. Additionally, less is more when it comes to window treatments. Venetian blinds were a staple during this period but simple, flat curtains will certainly do the trick while cutting down visual clutter. Stained glass panels placed directly in your existing window sills are also an excellent alternative.

Detail Oriented

The Art Deco period prized inlays, wood veneers and lacquered items, many of which can easily be found in resale shops today. Decorative inlaid screens can be used as room dividers or to hide clutter. Reuse period prints from vintage magazines in simple black frames or use a lacquered trunk to organize belongings while bringing your Art Deco design project together.

In conclusion, decorating a small space with Art Deco flair leaves a lot of room for personal creativity. The primary rule to remember when decorating small spaces and when using elements from the Art Deco movement is to keep it very simple. And, in no time, your small space will be transformed into a cozy retreat.