If you’ve scrolled through home design feeds lately, you’ve likely seen the glamorous comeback of Art Deco. This design style features curves, lacquered finishes, geometric patterns, and moody metallics reminiscent of the 1920s. And if you love drama, luxury, and craftsmanship, this decorating style is for you.
However, leaning too much into the Art Deco style can quickly make your space start to feel like something out of The Great Gatsby. The secret is mixing new and vintage Art Deco pieces in a way that feels intentional, layered, and timeless. Not sure where to start on your Art Deco journey?
Here are some tips for mixing new and vintage Art Deco elements into your home design.
Start with a modern base
Every decorating style requires balance, but that’s especially true when you’re going vintage. An interior designer in Plainfield, IL, says to start with a clean, modern foundation of soft, neutral walls, contemporary lighting, and streamlined furniture. From there, you can add Art Deco accents like bold mirrors, brass details, or a standout side table with curved lines and inlay work.
Mix metals and materials
The Art Deco style favors rich, high-gloss materials such as chrome, glass, lacquer, and marble. Pair warm brass with matte black hardware, or combine a glossy burlwood sideboard with a velvet-upholstered chair to embrace the look without going overboard. If you’re working with vintage finds, don’t worry if they show a little patina because that’s what gives them character.
Bridge art between eras
One way you can combine the old with the new is by hanging a contemporary abstract painting above a vintage Art Deco console. Or pair a framed black-and-white photograph with a new mirror that features Deco-inspired etching. Don’t be afraid to reframe vintage prints, either. A modern frame with clean lines can instantly update older artwork. If you have a variety of pieces from each era, you can also create a blended gallery wall.
Play with pattern and symmetry
Art Deco loves the order and repetition of patterns, like chevrons and zigzags. To make those patterns feel current, use them sparingly and in creative ways. For example, create a single wallpapered statement wall in a small powder room, or place an area rug that adds a Deco-inspired rhythm to your living room.
Invest in quality over quantity
In the early days of Art Deco, everyone celebrated craftsmanship. Pieces weren’t just made to be admired but to last. Now, you can invest in one or two high-quality pieces that speak to you, like a walnut coffee table with Deco-inspired inlay or a mirror that features stepped edges and smoked glass. You can mix those heirloom-quality pieces with new items that have a similar attention to detail for a home that feels layered, curated, and full of personality.
Use lighting to set the mood
Look for fixtures that blend sculptural shapes with soft, diffused light. A chandelier with frosted glass globes or a sleek, tiered floor lamp will add that signature Deco drama without overpowering a space. Modern LED options make it easy to maintain a warm and inviting glow rather than a stark one.
Art Deco is one of those design eras that always circles back because it’s simply timeless. Whether you’re drawn to its metallic glamour or its bold geometry, think of Art Deco as the jewelry of your space. A little goes a long way, and when done right, your home will feel both nostalgic and utterly of the moment.
