Art Deco Style

Originating in Paris at the Exposition Internationale des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels Modernes in 1925, it remained popular until the late 1930's. It focused on aesthetic and decoration rather than historical foundations.

The creative expression of some of the most memorable designers of the Art Deco era, from iconic fashion illustrators to glass and jewellery designers, to masters of Art Deco home and office interiors were: George Barbier, Paul Poiret, Erté, Georges Lepape, Emile-Jacques Ruhlmann, Sonia Delaunay, Jean Despres, René Lalique and Jean Dunand.

The Art Deco style is glamorous and eye-catching, it included various geometric designs, such as chevrons and bold stripes. It also favoured the use of animal prints, high-sheen fabrics in bold jewel-tone colours with gold accents and in this era of luxe, velvet reigned supreme.

Monotones were also popular, as shown in the photo below.

Photo Credit: Veranda

Other elements of this design style include bold artwork, marble, wall sconces, geometric mirrors, curved furniture and beautiful wood with gold metal inlays.

Many of these design elements are being revived and seen in homes today.

It was this style which inspired me to build two different 1:6 scale dioramas. The first being "The White Panther Jazz Club" which I made for my Integrity Toy dolls quite some time back, the one which is already being revived in the room box.

The other, is my recent "Erté Living Room" which I have only just begun working on. This diorama will feature the colours purple and gold with black and white neutrals.

Project: Mid Century Diorama - Space Age 50's-70's (Part 2)

Mid century modern is a term first used by Cara Greenberg in the 1950's to describe a style of architectural, interior, industrial and graphic design that emerged after World War II.

Today mid century modern is often used to refer to the period from the early 1930's through the mid 70's. It has become a standard way of referring to design of the period that featured clean lines, a fusion of organic and manmade materials and retro style.

Teak timber and plastics, graphic shapes and vibrant colours were often used and the style remained popular until the 1980's, when design philosophies like the Memphis design school came into fashion.

My "Space Age" diorama is showcasing the wonderful plastic furniture produced in the late 1950's through to the late 60's.

In these last two shots you can see the recent additions to this diorama. The occupants have remained the same . . . still munching on cake!

Later, I will share a second mid century version which overlapped this period of design.