The pros and cons of art deco homewares

The art deco style found popularity which extended into different design fields such as architecture, interior design, industrial design and the visual arts. Art deco homeware makes for great furnishing items as well as gift ideas. However, there are both pros and cons to using these highly styled items. Weigh the pros and cons of art deco homewares before you decide on buying them.

Art deco style and homeware

The Art Deco style is characterised by stylised art using geometric curves, stepped forms, nature motifs like the everlasting sunburst graphic and images of planes, cars and skyscrapers. This period style made design breakthrough by using materials like bakelite, chrome, stainless steel, lacquer, inlaid wood and mirrors which were non-traditional choices. Art deco homeware can be purely decorative but are often applied to items with functional value. These include bookends, candle-stands, telephones, cocktail sets, clocks, photo-frames and even lighting and sanitary fixtures.

Pros

Decorative value The art deco style itself was intended to be a purely decorative style free of political or philosophical ideologies. Its very intention was to create a refreshing change from the austerity and lack of design ornamentation associated with the World War. Art Deco homeware makes a very strong style statement due to the high emphasis on the artistic and aesthetic attributes. Forms, profiles, graphics and motifs are all intended as art decoration. Deco wallpaper serves as home art. Stylistic compatibility Though this style is best suited for art deco homes, it can be compatible with both traditional and contemporary interiors. Use of machine-age materials makes them suitable ornamental accents for contemporary interiors. Art deco homeware often carries Oriental and African influences and can bring an exotic flavour to interiors. Different budgets Art deco products may be procured from stores specialising in these styles and period products, many of which may be found and ordered online. There is sufficient range to suit different budgets. Reproductions may also be considered for those on a tight budget.

Cons

Visual balance Since Art deco art has strong decorative value, too many of such items can compete with each other and create visual clutter. They should be chosen carefully with due contextual considerations. Stylistic limitations Art deco design has a defined look and may not suit people who prefer a more understated aesthetic. Choice of items is very personalised and can clash with styles aiming to be subtle and muted. Authentic items With reproductions available in the market, it is difficult to identify authentic items which are high-priced. Authentic items may have compromised condition due to long use and should be chosen carefully.
A final word Art deco homeware has excellent stylistic value and should be chosen with the setting in mind.