Evoking the opulence of the Roaring Twenties and the glamour of Old Hollywood, the Art Deco style is a celebration of luxury, symmetry, and bold geometric forms. An Art Deco inspired bedroom is the ultimate personal sanctuary—a dramatic, sophisticated, and unapologetically glamorous retreat from the outside world. It’s a design style that makes a confident statement.
Creating a modern take on this classic look is about capturing its spirit without creating a museum piece. It’s a careful balance of rich materials, striking patterns, and sleek lines. If you’re ready to bring the drama and elegance of the Jazz Age into your home, here are the seven essential elements of a modern Art Deco inspired bedroom.
The Art of Deco: Key Principles for a Modern Take
To achieve an updated Art Deco look, focus on these core principles:
- Symmetry is Key: Art Deco design loves balance. Arrange furniture, especially nightstands and lamps, in symmetrical pairs to create a sense of order and formality.
- Layer Luxe Materials: This style is defined by its rich textures. Don’t be shy about mixing velvet, brass, lacquered wood, and marble. This is fundamental to a true Art Deco inspired bedroom.
7 Essential Elements of an Art Deco Inspired Bedroom
Incorporate these hallmarks to create a truly glamorous space.
1. The Statement Headboard: Velvet and Bold Shapes
The bed is the undeniable star of an Art Deco bedroom. Opt for a tall, dramatic headboard in a luxurious fabric like velvet. Look for shapes that evoke the era: a sweeping scalloped or shell-shaped headboard, or a tall, channel-tufted design that emphasizes verticality. A rich jewel tone like emerald green, sapphire blue, or deep burgundy will make a powerful statement.
2. A Rich and Moody Color Palette
The Art Deco color palette is deep, dramatic, and luxurious. Build your room around rich jewel tones—emerald, sapphire, ruby, and amethyst—or use classic black and cream as your foundation. These colors are meant to be paired with the gleaming metallic accents that are so crucial to the style. This palette is a key component of an Art Deco inspired bedroom.
3. Bold Geometric Patterns
Geometric repetition is the most recognizable element of Art Deco. Incorporate strong, repeating patterns to bring the style to life.
- Wallpaper: A feature wall behind the bed with a bold, geometric wallpaper (think fan shapes, chevrons, or sunbursts) is an instant statement.
- Rugs: An area rug with a strong, graphic Art Deco pattern can anchor the entire room.
- Bedding: A duvet cover or throw pillows with a geometric print can add a softer layer of pattern.
4. Polished Gold and Brass Accents
Gleaming, warm metallics are non-negotiable. Polished brass and gold add the necessary glamour and warmth to balance the deep, cool tones of the color palette. Use these finishes for your light fixtures, mirror frames, cabinet hardware, and the legs of your furniture. The constant glint of metal is what gives an Art Deco inspired bedroom its luxurious feel.
5. Symmetrical and Mirrored Furniture
Art Deco furniture is characterized by clean lines and luxurious finishes. Look for nightstands and dressers made of dark, highly polished or lacquered wood. Mirrored furniture is another hallmark of the era, used to bounce light and add a sense of glamour. Always aim for symmetry: a matching nightstand and lamp on each side of the bed is the classic approach.
6. The Iconic Sunburst Mirror
If there is one single accessory that screams Art Deco, it’s the sunburst mirror. This iconic motif represents the optimism and energy of the era. A large, beautifully crafted gold or brass sunburst mirror hung above the bed or a dresser is the perfect focal point and an instant signifier of the Art Deco style.
7. Luxurious, Layered Lighting
Lighting in an Art Deco room is meant to be seen and admired. It should be layered to create a warm, ambient glow. Start with a statement ceiling fixture, like a tiered chandelier or a geometric pendant. Add glamorous wall sconces on either side of the bed—look for designs in glass and brass with fan or globe shapes. Finally, place elegant table lamps on the nightstands and dresser.
Conclusion: A Timeless and Dramatic Retreat
Creating an Art Deco inspired bedroom is about fearlessly embracing bold patterns, luxurious materials, and glamorous details. By layering these essential elements, you can design a sophisticated and dramatic sanctuary that feels both rooted in the elegance of the past and perfectly suited for modern life.
