Philadelphia’s Art Deco heritage is a wellspring of inspiration for contemporary interior design. Each structure and detail within Philly’s landscape is a nod to a bygone, yet timeless aesthetic. Philadelphia Art Deco is characterized by symmetrical lines and bold geometric forms that bridge past and present styles. Learn to incorporate these lush elements to define luxury and elevate your living space.
A Brief History of Philadelphia Art Deco
Art Deco drew inspiration from the French moderne style and an increased interest in urban architecture. It’s known for its juxtaposed blend of classic and contemporary decoratives, rich hues, bold palettes, grandeur details, and antique accessories. This is also evidence of the influence of avant-garde styles and European sophistication.
During the Roaring Twenties, American cities adopted this style for its distinctiveness, resulting in the birth of Philadelphia Art Deco. However, Art Deco was a short-lived design trend that wasn’t revisited until the Great Depression and World War II ended. Due to its short decline, many Philadelphia Art Deco buildings were demolished. However, its timeless spirit remains in structures such as the 30th Street Station, the WCAU Building, and the William Penn Annex Post Office.
The 30th Street Station’s new chromatic 50-foot windows transformed the public hub into a Philadelphia Art Deco classic. Likewise, the WCAU is known for its geometric windows and sleek accents. Formerly a U.S. Postal Service building, the William Penn Annex features dynamic trimmings with dignified beauty. While many structures have been renovated for maintenance and art preservation, they embody the timeless Art Deco style while inspiring homeowners to design their own spaces.
Down to the Last Detail
Art Deco is a distinctive style where every detail serves a purpose in elevating your space. Therefore, when designing your interior, focus on individually crafted pieces and grandiose elements. Drawing inspiration from Philadelphia’s historical infrastructure will help you incorporate the city’s rich history into your home.
Geometric Shapes
Philadelphia Art Deco values geometric shapes and patterns for a unified aesthetic. Shapes like circles, triangles, zigzags, clean lines, and squares create sleek and modern designs. Before incorporating shapes, think of every part of your interior as a canvas. These shapes can be integrated into wall designs, murals, ceiling finishes, furniture, designer rugs, and accents for an artistic approach.
The William Penn Annex showcases sleek contrasting lines in its tile work, making it a perfect inspiration for tiled bathrooms, kitchens, and glossy accent walls. You can imitate 30th Street Station’s translucent motif with eccentric hues and complex lines. This can be done with patterned wallpapers and metallic textures for a progressive, urban look. Installing decorative columns also helps make a space feel taller while introducing a harmonious flow to your space.
You can achieve fluidity by incorporating repetitive patterns in furniture accessories and statement pieces for visual interest. However, refrain from adding too many geometric shapes as they can create an unwanted sense of chaos or disorder. You can offset visual loudness with minimalist designs for a contemporary balance. Philadelphia Art Deco is all about creating a grandeur effect, so limit yourself to a few patterns to complement other interior elements.
Bold and Luxurious Colors
Embracing inspiration from Philadelphia Art Deco will lead you to incorporate rich colors and bold palettes. You can also integrate exotic finishes that blend classical elements with modern interiors.
You can achieve this look by contrasting deep reds, navy blues, and emerald greens with neutral whites and grays in furniture, floors, and walls for a harmonious glow. Complementing royal purples and sapphires with gold accents can further create a regal aesthetic. These color schemes will allow you to mimic classic Art Deco marble and watery finishes on wall treatments and murals. The WCAU building showcases Art Deco’s cozy elegance with its navy blue and silver metallic finishes.
Furniture and Light Fixtures
Furniture and fixtures offer unique ways to incorporate vintage decorations, antique furniture, and lavish lighting. You’ll find Art Deco-inspired furniture will feature detailed woodwork and intricate metal accents for a touch of elegance. You can complement marble and watery finishes with velvet upholstery for a cozy living space. Alternatively, you can embrace the gentleness of curvilinear furniture and create a seamless flow throughout your home.
Light fixtures help integrate geometric shapes on walls and ceilings into your interior. For example, the sleek-lined chandeliers in the 30th Street Station provide a grandiose aesthetic that can be mimicked in your Philadelphia-inspired home. Elaborate chandeliers, sconces, pendant lights, and geometric sculptural fixtures are extravagant focal points for any interior.
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