When I consider the Art Deco period, I often ask myself, How has the shift in Art Deco moved to a modern, useful space? A kitchen is the heart of every home, and a shift to a kitchen influenced by the romance of the 1920s and 1930s can truly change the character of the space. In this article, I’m going to tell you the steps you can take to bring Art Deco elements into a kitchen and still have it function in a contemporary way.
Each section of the essay focuses on the different ways you can accomplish an ideal middle ground ranging from sumptuous geometric forms to intelligent kitchen design and finishes. I will also explain how it’s possible to design practical and timeless kitchens, incorporate Deco style modern appliances, achieve the look on a budget, and modern appliances and deco style can be a harmonious|a unified] design. Let’s get to the glamour and elegance of Art Deco kitchens.
The Glamorous Appeal Of An Art Deco Kitchen
An Art Deco kitchen is distinctively striking due to its uniqueness and splash of glamour. This design ‘s in my view a marriage of rustic and modern convenience. It is a linear array of soft shapes using luxurious materials in striking contrasts for a beautiful and functional appeal. It’s poles apart from the minimalist kitchen which is devoid of monotony and oozes personality and sophistication.
In the design of the kitchen, the glossy cabinets, bold geometric tiles and splash of metallics stand out. The polished black floor with soft subtle gold inlays and marble counter tops captures the essence of this Art Deco kitchen. The appliances which stand out because of their glossy stainless steel finish give a modern touch but in a retro electric style.
I personally find the implementation of this style extremely rewarding, because it balances aesthetic and functional fine Art. Many renowned interior design leaders, including those in Architectural Digest, have suggested Art Deco to homeowners to embark on a design journey promising comfort along with elegance.
This section could easily be elevated with the addition of fragmented mirrors to the cabinet, or the addition of crystal handles. These small details truly have a profound effect on the overall design.
With Their Walls And Floors, Bold Geometric Patterns
We all know at least a little about Art Deco, and to describe its design style in a word, I would say, sharp. And sharp, in this sense, would be a distortion of originality, because it is at once vibrant and uniquely distinguishable in all areas. And, style wise, I am a huge advocate of using zigzags, chevrons, or diamonds with tiles on either floors or backsplashes as Art Deco design would undoubtedly ignite the inner space. Also, it is most certain that this kind of design serves a whole lot more than just decorating the place. It truly possesses a great sense of mood.
For the walls, I especially recommend simple geometric modern ceramic or porcelain tiles. I recommend herringbone polished wood as well as large polished tiles with contrasting inlays for the floor. It is no coincidence that the combination of all of these tiles imposes precision, original, and symmetric in the core and outer calm in the boundaries, for it defines Art decor well.
In my experience, it has been the case that most clients, who at first did not like the bold patterns, found themselves revitalized at the difference in the energy balance of the room. And, according to Elle Decor, geometric patterns in modern kitchens no doubt carry a distinct Art Deco touch.
Yet, if the mood is on the receiver, I would ask for soft lighting. Gentle patterns like this surely bring warm as well as depth including comfort devoid of overwhelming strobe patterns.
Stylish Marble Countertops With Art Deco Inspired Design
Marble has always been regarded as an elegant stone, and in an Art Deco kitchen, it truly shines. I particularly love using black and white marbles as they come alive with their dramatic veining design. This puts the marble at the forefront and as the centerpiece of the room. This surface also helps in amplifying the natural and artificial lighting within the space.
I love using marble countertoips and then adding metallic edging in the chrome, brass, or gold finishes. This compliments the broader Art Deco style. A backlit integrated mosaic glass or marble tile adds some sophistication and subtle elegance.
I truly believe that using high quality marble is an investment, and it is not merely for the aesthetic purposes, but for long lasting value as well. As House Beautiful, one of the top and most renowned design and lifestyle magazines has noted, marble beautiful is still one of the most used materials with regards to high end kitchens due to its beautiful appearance and strength.
I would also like to mention the custom edge detailing, or the beveled and waterfall edges that give an even more customized touch to the Art Deco theme of the Countertops.
Classy Cabinetry Features With Glossy Finishing Touches
Another area where you can showcase the Art Deco style in the kitchen is the cabinetry. For the Deco era style of the cabinetry in the kitchen, the enticing finishes for me would be the glossy lacquered wood and high polish laminates. Glossy lacquered wood and high polish laminates have the broad ample light lacquered wood and high polish laminates.
Streamlined handles in chrome and brass combinned color handles seamlessly marry the touch contemporary, yet also have the charming touch of retro era. And swank color combinations do the touch too. Deep blacks, emerald greens, misty cream or nunsha shades can also be used in the decor. Along with the navy blue, the artic blue adds a calm touch, especially paired with misty cream.
Within the projects, the clients have fallen in love with the dual purpose feel of the cabinetry, with a touch of warmth and elegance. Art decor chefata expert, Nate Berkus, usually talks about the endless amount of possibilities one can explore with cabinetry.
This is especially true in Art Deco designs. To make this portion more complete, I would suggest adding simple cabinetry for useful modern decor that also flows with the planned aesthetics.
Gold Foil and Black, Perfect For A Chic Look
The black and gold combination is, without a doubt, a noteworthy feature of Art Deco kitchen designs. I love pairing black cabinetry with gold trim. Black faucets with gold sinks. And even gold light fixtures on dark walls. All of them instantly improve the ambiance of the kitchen.
I love mixing gold hardware with matte black finishes, so the design is not overly shiny. The gold accents in the flooring or the more discreet elements, such as drawer handles or cabinet frames, or even gold inlaid in the flooring, can bring balance without dominating the design.
In my view, black and gold can be both elegant and charming, and the flexibility of them is a clear advantage. They do, as Veranda Magazine has said more than once, stand far beyond the trends, and thus are very wise choices for homeowners who desire timeless work as their kitchen designs.
I would suggest mirrors and decor with gold frames, for instance, so the design is more refined and the ideas are better integrated.
Art Deco Lighting Fixtures You Can’t Miss
The lights in an Art Deco kitchen are never only for use as a light source. I prefer pendant lights that have frosted glass shades, geometric chandeliers, or wall lights decorated in chrome or brass. These lights emphasize the elegance of the room.
The arrangement of the lights makes a difference as well. Positioning lights above a kitchen island or using graduated lights along the ceiling changes the feel of the room. Together, these lights create a bright, sparkling effect when combined with smooth surfaces.
In my experience, many of my clients have a keen interest in dramatic light fixtures due to the character that they add to the space. Architectural Digest often showcases Art Deco inspired spaces and I have noticed that they love to feature dramatic light fixtures. I completely agree with this.
In this case, I would also include under cabinet lighting with Art Deco styled metallic finishes, to add a little practicality and beauty to the space.
Appliances That Have A Vintage Feel Yet Modern Efficiency
Vintage style is paired with modern efficiency in the appliances for the kitchen, which is something I really appreciate. These appliances include stainless steel appliances that have rounded edges, as well as chrome accents which reflect the style of the 1920s and contain the technology that every home needs today.
Appliances like the rounded cornered refrigerator, the polished steel stove, or even the toasters made of them can easily be a part of the design. Sleek cabinet darko featur marbles, its flooring, and its construction, and the limbs of the kitchen glow.
To me, the appliances made of steel serve a practical use and also act as a basic piece of decor. Design specialists suggest retro appliances as one of the most effective means to introduce Art Deco charm to the kitchen without making too many changes.
To make the look more harmonious, I would polish chrome trim or handles to these appliances, matching the rest of the metallic details around the kitchen.
1920s Inspired Detailed Backsplash Concepts
Although there are many distinctive elements to the Art Deco style, the backsplash is certainly among the most impactful. Reflective surfaces, intricate mosaics, glass tiles, and even metallics are wonderful decorative statements that draw upon the style of the 1920s. These elements undoubtedly add practical and visual glamour to the kitchen.
For materials I suggest glass tiles, polished ceramics of bold patterned glazed tiles, and even geometrically patterned marbles. These tile backsplashes certainly add texture and shine to the Art Deco style.
I personally think that backsplashes should be custom designed. This gives the opportunity for the owners to add their personal touch. House & Garden makes the argument that a backsplash is one of the most critical components to a kitchen design and in many cases, Art Deco interiors are defined by the style of the backsplash.
Brass or chrome skirting is a wonderful way to give this section its very own polished frame.
Glam Touches on Art Deco Kitchen Islands
In Art Deco kitchens, the kitchen island remains the focus in the modern layout and its finishes tell a story about the unending glamour the owners appreciate. Art Deco kitchen islands often feature bold veined marble, polished chrome, and metallic finishes.
Fluted and ribbed cabinet styles are the most popular choices for the island base as they draw the eye and add visual interest. To add extra interest, the island can be accessorized with bar handles, eye-catching pendants, and bold finishes around the counter edges.
In my practice, homeowners adore the practicality of a kitchen island and the needless addition of decor. According to Elle Decor, the centerpiece of modern kitchens is the island, and with the Art Deco aesthetic, the style is unbeatable.
Another great addition to further advance this idea would be a raised glass or brass bar extension. It combines ornament and function seamlessly, improving the style and utility of the space.
Mirrored Surfaces To Reflect Light And Luxury
Mirrored surfaces are a common feature in many kitchens from the Art Deco period, as they help with the amplification of light within the room and creates the illusion of spaciousness. I personally enjoy the use of mirror panes as cabinet doors, mirror backsplashes, and mirrored borders on the kitchen island.
In practical terms, mirrors look great with shiny smooth cabinets, metal decor, and heavily patterned surfaces. They suit giant light decor as the mirrors reflect and create a more busy, interesting view.
To me, I feel as though mirrored surfaces are the most useful in small kitchen spaces, as they add light and an illusion of width. Architectural Digest states that cleverly placed mirrors are some of the best ways to add sophisticated style to small spaces.
For fog, I personally recommend antique mirrors and mirrors that are tinted in a light golden or smoke a touch to go along with the Art Deco style design.
Color Schemes Featuring Variety In Lighter And Deeper Tones
The kitchen is based on bold colour palettes, usually contrasting deep, rich tones against lighter or metallic shades. I usually suggest black and cream, emerald green with gold, or navy blue and silver. The visual tension against the rich elegance is quite pleasing.
An emerald, sapphire, or ruby jewel tone is paired perfectly with metallic trims and lighter marble countertops. These colors, along with the neutral color floors, prevents the shades from being overwhelming.
There is no arguing that color defines the mood. In Art Deco, it’s quite simply…declaration. Bold colors, as mentioned in Veranda Magazine, add primary characteristic to kitchens, especially if paired with geometric patterns.
If I were to add one more thing, it would be bar stools or light fixtures in bold colors that would either compliment or contrast the cabinetry to pull the palette together.
Chevron and Herringbone Flooring Designs
Flooring defines a central aspect of the Art Deco style and works well with statement patterns such as chevron and herringbone. I commonly use polished wood, marble tiles, or even terrazzo for these classic designs. They instantly convey the decade’s opulence while being practical for contemporary use.
Dark wood chevron floors with gold or brass inlays are stunning within larger kitchens. Herringbone, on the other hand, exudes refinement when paired with lighter marble counter as well as glossy cabinetry.
I’ve seen how such statement flooring becomes the focal point of a discussion within my works. Flooring, as per House Beautiful, are often viewed as the most permanent design choices and Art Deco patterns give a kitchen’s design a bold and timeless foundation.
For increased warmth and texture, I would also recommend adding area rugs with geometric designs to emphasize certain areas of the kitchen, such as the space under the dining nook or bar stools.
Fashionable Bar Stools Inspired by Art Deco:
Art Deco continues to shine in the seating spaces of the kitchen. For the bar stools, I suggest ones with chrome or brass rounded arms, deep buttoned upholstery in substantial shades of leather or velvet such as emerald green, sapphire blue, or black. These bar stools provide functional decoration and improve the aesthetics.
I personally gravitate towards geometric or fan shaped back designs shaped like the Art Deco designs of the 1920s. These have a definite luxurious feeling when spaced with a marble island and all bar stools have a practical side.
In my opinion, bar stools are the greatest and easiest option to refresh a space that doesn’t need a complete redesign. As Elle Decor never fails to mention, the right form and decor of the seating makes a kitchen layout. And Art Deco interiors achieve a certain degree of elegance with detailed seating that is hair-raising and bold.
I would also recommend adding stools with metallic footrests to the mix, along with adding comfort, will complete the visual relation with the rest of the metallic elements in the space.
Decorative Ceiling Designs For a Dramatic Effect
When finishing up a full Art Deco inspired kitchen, it is common to include a gingerbread ceiling, as it fulfills both functionality and aesthetic purposes by making the room seamless, and is also dramatic. I love to incorporate coffered ceilings, geometric moldings, and even the metallic ceiling tiles that change the ordinary to the exceptional by adding textures light and sheen.
Light in particular is also significant in this. The lights and chandeliers hidden in the recesses of the ceilings at the inner seams, aid in deconstructing the depth and the ‘biting’ of the intricacies, while the shiny surfaces aid in bouncing the light in the interiors and add to the ‘wow’.
In my experience, I have come to the insight that the ceiling design in the kitchen is neglected, while in reality it is a goldmine of a canvas to express one’s creativity. The bold ceiling trend in luxury interiors, as explained by Architectural Digest, is gaining popularity and is also uniquely suitable for Art Deco styles.
In this regard, I believe an improvement would come from adding LED lights hidden on the edges of the ceiling to amplify the geometry while leaving room for the main features to shine.
Open Shelving Design Inspirations From the Art Deco Period
Open shelving can sometimes feel too modern, but when I approach it from an Art Deco perspective, it takes on a unique charm. Unlike basic floating shelves, I favor the use of dark wood or glossy-laquered finishes accented with geometric metallic brackets. This strikes a balance between modern convenience and the timeless elegance of design.
Each shelf features individual design elements chosen to complement the whole. Cut and etched glassware, decorative jars and ceramic vases, together with symmetrically arranged forms, create a bold shelf design. Purposeful spacing not only makes shelving uncluttered, but provides an opportunity to feature bold Art Deco styled kitchen decor accessories.
From my experience, this works especially well in smaller kitchens, where closed cabinets might feel too heavy. Architectural Digest professionals also state that closed cabinets combined with shaped and luxurious open shelving provide an illusion of expansive space while maintaining a fancy atmosphere.
My suggestion would be to add some integrated LED lighting along the shelf undersides. This serves to accent the displayed items while also adding an ambient glow that feels true to the Art Deco atmosphere.
Cabinet Gold Hardware And Finishes
I tend to reach for gold hardware when wanting to instantly elevate the luxury feel of a kitchen. Gold toned warm metallic handles, knobs, and hinges instantly elevate cabinetry, even when the cabinetry itself may be plain. My favorites include the Deco Polished Brass faucets and the gold trimmed lighting fixtures. They tend to tie the kitchen together and reinforce the gold accents.
I share my personal kitchen design preference of layering the gold detailing with neutral marble or quartz countertops for a paradox visual. The gold metallic adds a warm depth and sophistication that Elle Decor Designers argue is a timeless touch.
I also enjoy how practical this approach is, while still maintaining the glam. The touch points with gold become a driving unifying factor and the design feels cohesive, instead of a unplanned assortment.
Based on this design, I would also vary the polish textures on the gold finish. The smooth and matte surfaces of gold blend beautifully and provide visual interest and composure in the kitchen.
‘Wow’ Chandeliers Over the Dining Area
Lighting can quickly and easily embrace the Art Deco fenomenon in the kitchen with large, over-sized chandeliers. I recommend a statement sculptural chandelier above the dining table or the kitchen island, as it would serve as a light source and the centerpiece of the room as well.
I tend to choose chandeliers with geometric tiers, frosted glass globes and crystal drops. The trick is to find the right balance between excessive and insufficient, very chandelier-sy, and void. Combining it with simple furnishings is key to letting the chandelier dominate and create the wow element.
I have personally observed how guests gravitate to a bold chandelier. It acts as a mood lifter and a talking piece all at the same time. Recently House Beautiful pointed out how metallic and crystal chandeliers have returned to the forefront of modern homes, especially around the center of open-plan kitchens.
For this chandelier, I would suggest using dimmable lighting so that you can ensure the light can be functional for cooking, and also enjoy it during entertaining.
High-Gloss Lacquer Finishes on Furniture
In relation to a kitchen, adding a high gloss lacquer finish to a set of cabinetry or on a dining table or even on a set of bar stools can be quite useful. It reflects light and creates a sense of luxury and openness that is a trademark for the Art Deco kitchen.
For lacquered cabinets, deep shades like black or emerald green or even burgundy look extremely beautiful and striking. Add in metallic handles, marble countertops, and you’ve got a modern timeless masterpiece. A bold lacquered dining table and or other furniture can also anchor a space and give it that beautiful understated deco glamour.
Lacquer gloss is also highly practical as it is quite easy to clean, easy to keep in a high use area because it is retains scratches and other damages and is very durable. Veranda Magazine also points out that lacquered reflective surfaces like these makes the kitchen feel bigger and brighter.
I think adding high-gloss accents on furniture such as sideboards or shelving will help carry the theme beyond the cooking space. This makes the whole kitchen and dining area cohesive.
Kitchen Decor Accessories Inspired by Art Deco
Accessories are fundamental to the success or failure of an Art Deco kitchen. I usually introduce bold vases, geometric trays, serving pieces composed of mirrors, and patterned ceramic jars. These elements create an ambiance quickly, with no need for reconstruction.
Every item I choose serves an instrumental role and goes beyond mere embellishment. The mirrored trays are for serving, etched glass vases create height and drama, and patterned jars are for storage and style. Accessories also offer the best opportunity to change the look of a room at a very low price.
In my own projects, I’ve come to realize the impact of well-placed accessories and how they can transform a simple kitchen into something special. Better Homes & Gardens suggests including oversized decorative accents tastefully, and focusing on a few to avoid clutter. I support that “less is more” approach for Deco- inspired accessories.
If I were to take this idea further, I would propose the addition of a mirrored backsplash to the accessories. It creates a light reflective surface that magnifies the decorative impact beautifully.
Incorporating Shine Using Glass And Crystal
The essence of sparkle and shine is very important in the Art Deco style. Glass and crystal elegantly compliments the luxury as well as assists in lighting the room. I like to use these in the crystal pendant lights, the glass cabinet doors, or the glass fronted wine storage cabinets.
Each crystal element has its purpose. The glass doors on the cabinets hold exquisite tableware, the lights in the pendants drape light onto the island, and the cabinets are subtly adorned with crystal knob handles. These details all add to the light and space of the room, and enhance each other.
Crystal and glass are materials that will never age. Architectural Digest reflects that these materials in a kitchen add a light, airy, and spacious feel, which is very much in line with the Art Deco period.
As a suggestion, for a bit of a more mysterious touch, smoked or frosted glass in a Deco room would be very appropriate.
And the Rest of the Architecture is All in the Details
Details are the foundation of the kitchen. The gentle arches and curved bits take one back to the 1920s, and with the addition of Art Deco shapes and touches from that time, everything is complete! I love to add in arched doors, cabinet frames, or open up entire wall sections with arched glass to incorporate the luxe.
The custom furniture alongside barstools and arched shelving units echoes the same theme. Complemented with metallic trims or lacquered finishes, these shapes become part of a unified design language.
In my opinion, the difference between an ordinary kitchen and an extraordinary one lies in the integration of architectural details. As House & Garden frequently suggests, the addition of classic Deco elements, in this case arches, helps counterbalance rigid geometry with gentle fluidity so that the design never feels too severe.
To expand on this idea, I would recommend using arches in combination with mosaic tile insets. This detail adds further texture and interest, reinforcing the Deco character.
Metallic Tiles For A Luxurious Kitchen Look
Adding the metallic tiles to the strong Art Deco kitchens that I design is one of the strongest looks available, and it’s one of my favorite techniques as well. These tiles have the ability to create an instant luxurious look since they reflect artificial and natural light. Tiles come in gold, bronze and silver tones helping the entire space’s mood. These tiles look wonderful with bold cabinetry and gloss lacquer finishes.
I prefer using metallic tiles as my kitchen backsplashes since it is a great way to make a focal point without overwhelming the area. For the flooring, it is best to have the metallic tiles as insets or borders instead of fully covering the space so that visual clutter is avoided. These tiles with a geometric pattern also improve the Deco style and make them easy to clean as well.
In my opinion, metallic tiles offer a combination of durability and glamour. A lot of designers, including some in Elle Decor, focus on the idea that a kitchen design in which reflective materials are used has depth and a touch of drama. Personally, I have witnessed the using of this technique has a dramatic transfiguration on any kitchen which turns it into the focus of the home.
Again, the shifts in subtle shine can become even cooler with the addition of matte metallics. These removes the gaudy shine of polished metals while striking the right note of subtle shine and sophistication.
Balance and Symmetry in Kitchen Design
The balance of symmetry is a key aspect of the Art Deco style, and one that I strive for in all of my work, since it enhances a kitchen no matter whether it’s the cabinet layout, the lighting, or even just the finishing touches. It’s balance and cohesion that Deco-style demands.
I do it by matching cabinets to either side of the stove, and placing the same light fixtures over the island. Additional furniture also enhances the overall balance, either bar stools or die sets. Accessories can also be arranged in mirrored pairs to reinforce symmetry.
Most people do not find symmetry generally fascinating, but I do find it very satisfying. It’s also very much easier to navigate and much more effortless to use for day-to-day tasks. Symmetry is a great tool to use as it is both timeless and elegant, a perfect addition and staple to any kitchen.
If I wanted to take things to the next level, I would try to incorporate some type of symmetry along with extreme contrasting colors such as black and white, which increases drama and balance at the same time.
Graphic Bold Rugs To Add To The Kitchen Area
A graphic bold rug can transform the atmosphere of a kitchen. Rugs with geometric designs and strong colors in an Art Deco space work well to anchor a room. I frequently place them under dining tables or in front of the islands to provide warmth and harmonize with the decor.
In a rug, I look for black and white designs, geometric shapes with gold accents, or patterns of interlocking shapes. They work well with the cabinetry and tiles, and even more in the case of open-plan kitchens, they define various zones. A rug underfoot can provide textural relief and comfort without the interference of the clean Deco lines.
From my work, I have noticed and heard from clients how rugs soften an otherwise glossy and sleek room. According to some publications such as House Beautiful, rugs in kitchens, especially the ones used to accentuate design focus points, have made a comeback.
I would suggest using rugs with washable or more durable materials to make this concept even better. This way, they remain practical for a high-traffic area while still enhancing the Art Deco kitchen decor.
Art Deco Dining Nooks With Glam Appeal
One of the most elegant ways to bring glam into the kitchen is creating an Art Deco dining nook. These lovely little corners can become the focal point of the home and still highlight daring design details. My go-to are nooks with banquettes, glossed tables, and mirror or metal touches.
Each piece has a purpose. The banquette adds cozy sophistication, the glossed table captivates light, and metal edged or mirror panels create an atmosphere. Often, a geometric or bold pattern upholstery pulls the whole piece together.
From my own designs, I have found that the intimacy of dining nooks is a client favorite. Better Homes & Gardens says that nicely crafted nooks can turn wasted corners into elegant, practical areas and I agree. Nooks let homeowners play with strong, bold elements of Deco design.
To complete the look, I would add a centerpiece chandelier or a pendant lamp. It provides a focal point to the room while adding to the stack of glamour which is a signature of the Art Deco period.
Sleek Built-In Storage With Deco Details
No room, especially the kitchen, is complete without storage. In an Art Deco-inspired kitchen, I design it with the idea of style. Inset cabinetry with clean silhouettes, smooth curves, and understated Deco ornamentation succeeds in form and function. Picture lacquered surfaces, streamlined handles with metallic trim, and orderly designs.
I like to incorporate concealed storage into the kitchen islands or along the walls since it provides uncluttered spaces with an intelligent organization system. Plain cabinetry is adorned with Deco-inspired paneling or inlaid metallic highlights to add more character.
In my opinion, the built-in storage is designed in a manner that achieves a balance between form and function. As smart storage options make luxe kitchens more livable, Veranda Magazine has also covered how the juxtaposition enhances the visual and functional value.
To build on this idea, I would add panes of glass to the upper sections of the built-ins. It breaks up the solid mass and provides space for display without compromising storage.
Black And White Kitchens With A Bit Of Spice
A black-and-white kitchen embodies the Art Deco period, which the dramatic contrast and outline in every design relies upon. I love to apply this contrast palette to the cabinetry, counertops, and flooring. On the other hand, checkered flooring or black-and-white tiled backsplashes retains balance while adding interest.
Black gloss cabinetry along with white marble countertops is very simplistic but powerful. Once again, this color scheme never goes out of style and is the easiest way to acquire a Deco style. I’d say this color scheme is one of the easiest ways to achieve a Deco look without having to do extensive renovations. Elle Decor often mentions versatility and boldness of able to work in modern kitchens or even retro inspired.
Once again, to finish this section I recommend adding in metallic accents, like the black and chrome lights, just to balance and warm up the kitchen.
Pieces of Art and Functional Sculptures
My favorite parts of deco inspiration for kitchens is the ability to add pieces of art and sculptural elements at the same time. The artistic elements and the decorative pieces of my house are usually the ones that spark the most joy and most of the time are the lightings or even art pieces.
There are sculptural pendant lighting fixtures, barstools with sculptural bases and even modern faucets that are sculptural in form. All of these pieces add interest and are also fully functional.
One of the reasons I enjoy this element a lot is that is offers more for the space than just a work space, it helps turn the room and the house into a work of art. House & Garden writes about how sculptural elements in kitchens meld function and form, and that’s what makes Dior always in fashion.
I would suggest for the best outcome, include one sculptural piece in each room so it looks more intentional than clashing.
Mixing Modern Appliances With Deco Style
In my case, an Art Deco kitchen design requires modern appliances to be incorporated without losing the overall design. These modern appliances should, however, be kept from dominating the Deco-style finishing. Integrating appliances within the cabinetry, appliances can be made to disappear from the design without disruption to the seamless geometry of the room. The modern appliances will certainly modernize the room without disruption.
Within my projects, appliances that come with brushed gold or chrome finishes blend beautifully with the Art Deco design. The balance of harmony that vertical lacquers, tiles of monochrome geometric patterns, or even gold decorative lights, can be very Art deco. Mirror and glass also doubles the magic reflective and the defiant deco modern.
Without doubt, proportion is most important. Often, modern appliances are restrained to more, and for that reason, more modern or slimline versions can easily fit. As the experts from Architectural Digest put it, practicality is the first order of business, however with the right appliances, the kitchen can be stylish.
For details, I would suggest using brass handles for the cupboards or backsplash tiles with Deco touches. These details create a link between the shiny appliances and the decorative elements, allowing the entire kitchen to still tie together in a cohesive manner.
Budgeting For Creating An Art Deco Inspired Kitchen
People often think that Art Deco designs are expensive, but that’s not the case for me. With careful planning, I have created Deco-inspired kitchens that are within budget. The trick is to balance bold, statement items with more cost friendly options. For example, the backsplash can be covered in peel-and-stick tiles with geometric designs. These bold tiles would transform a kitchen’s look without the custom tiling price.
There are also furniture selections to consider. Rather than plain counters, I have quartz counters that are more budget-friendly, and have a more modern chic look. Art Deco designs are also characterized by the metallic finishes. These can be added by light fixtures, and even some DIY painted hardware. Glamorous looks can also be inexpensive by using open shelving with mirrored backing, which adds a playful touch without overwhelming the design.
From talking with others, i have noticed that it doesn’t take much to make the focal points of the room pop, this could be throgh the use of a subtle brighly colored patterned floor, the use of a chandelier, and, of course, keeping the rest of the kitchen relatively cheap. Other designers in the USA heavily advise to strike a balance when mixing materials of contrasting values. They suggest this because i have also noticed the same balance works well for spaces inspired by Deco.
In this situation, I would suggest use of vintage finds. Thrift shops, or other selling sites have a large collection of furniture like chairs, cabinets and, most of the time, vintage lamps that can be turned, polished and painted to fit the theme. They add a sense of class, are very cheap, and, most importantly, save the buyer from the cheap looking decoration that other lamps offer.
Modern Homes with Antique Art Deco Kitchens
What I love and appreciate the most about Art Deco is the charming way in which is remains relevant to quite a few decades. Even with modern homes the juxtaposition of defined bold edges, complex shapes, and high-end materials, feels quite inviting. I usually begin my pattern with a neutral base of white and cream my Deco on top with a subtle layer of black trim, some royal patterned tiles, and sprinkling of metallics to add a soft Deco touch.
For this environment, main furniture elements could be streamlined cabinetry, barstools with velvet upholstery, and minimalist pendant lights. Black and white checkered flooring is, with no doubt, one of the most recognizable ideas of Art Deco kitchens. Coupled with marble or quartz countertops, it is timeless. Mirrors, glass, and other materials make the surface enhaced with a glossy lacquer fit to this style with the reflective glamour that is a mark of this style.
In the professional world, balance is everything. A kitchen should not feel like a set to a period movie. It should work as a contemporary workstation. This is the reason I fuse contemporary lighting with smart storage solutions. As noted by Elle Decor, kitchens are becoming more versatile so the Deco elements should be adjusted to modern life.
What I would add to these kitchens is more plants and greenery. I understand that the original Deco design did not have plants, but I feel that adding them in modern day interpretations is a great contrast to the bold geometry and smooth, polished Deco finishes.
Final Inspiration: Designing A Kitchen With Glamour And Functionality
The kitchen of my dreams reflects Art Deco Form without losing Art Deco Function. Room should look a like a centerpiece, but should allow cooking, socializing, and everyday living without any fuss. Before anything else, I develop a layout and figure out the workflow zones. Great services kitchen design should reveil work, but still leave space for statement pieces.
Centerpieces include a large cocktail counters island with rounded edges, upholstered acrylic-and-gas bar stools with curved backs, and lacquer finish cabinets. Luminaries like “tiered glow” chandeliers and globe sconces are constellation chic and look great paired with polished brass or chrome finish on Art Deco service pieces.
I believe the ideal kitchen design combines both statement and function glam. I recently did a space with soft, dramatic black cabinets and a constellation of golden hardware counters. We paired the black with Lux White Worktop Cosentino for effortless usability and brightness. “The kitchen’s function should always come first,” the professionals at House Beautiful said.
What I would like to integrate here is technology. Without compromising Deco charm, concealed enjoying stations, hidden storage for appliances, and contemporary smart home technology can all be added. Thus, the kitchen is aesthetically pleasing as well as future ready.
Achieving an Art Deco kitchen is the combination of infinite beauty with contemporary style. Each of bold geometric designs with marble countertops, mirrored accents and low ceilings is aimed to capture the glamour of the 1920s while to accommodate the modern day lifestyle. Thick acrylics, statement fixtures, and bold monochrome colors will create the chicest and most functional kitchen.
If these concepts have sparked any inspiration let us discuss which elements you would sis together in your own home. Do you find yourself preferring the accents of black and gold, or would you like the luxurious mirrored surfaces that bathe the room in light? Do let me know your opinions and experience in the comments. I’m eager to know your thoughts.
