Art Deco, a trend from the 1920s and ’30s has been enjoying quite a resurgence in home interiors lately with its bold graphics, vibrant colours and luxurious materials that capture all of the glamour & grandeur this era stands for.
This theme usually involves symmetry, elaborate features, metal finishes, and hues such as black and gold in addition to heavy gem tones. In bathroom design, these elements bring back old-world charm, wrapping the space in luxurious surfaces.
Read on to see how this iconic design could add a touch of class and history to your everyday routine.
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Bold Colour Palettes
Art Deco bathrooms usually include dark and rich colours like black, navy blue and emerald green which work well with metallic designs in gold, silver or chrome. In larger bathrooms, the colours are ideal as they make a deep contrast to the rest of the colours in the room while jewel tones bring in a sense of effect.
For smaller areas, these colours are best used on walls or cabinets and are complemented with brighter surfaces to prevent making the room feel cramped. This colour scheme and texture are suitable for bathrooms of any size because it evokes upscale style, design and individuality.
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Statement Lighting
As far as lighting is concerned, geometric chandeliers and wall mounted sconces stand out best when trying to achieve this particular look. Chandeliers in gold, chrome or brass are commanding and perfect in the modern bathroom when placed over a freestanding bathtub or perhaps as a bathroom focal point.
Whilst wall mounted sconces on each side of mirrors guarantee perfect lighting and contribute to the general retro feel of the space.
If you decide to choose lighting that has a frosted design with metallic trims or has a tiered design, the light creates interesting shadows on the bathroom’s embellishments and effectively transports the space into the 1920s.
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Geometric Patterns
Geometric patterns are famously recognised from the jazz age era and can be found in tiles, wallpaper and flooring. Usually patterns like chevrons, zigzags and fan shapes are integrated into this theme which adds mesmerising visuals and movement to your bathroom. You can use them subtly or as a feature, depending on what you’re going for.
For a bold look, try a tiled accent wall with a repeating geometric pattern in contrasting colours, black and white or navy and gold. Or use them on the floor with intricate tiling to make a bold statement.
For a gentler appearance, consider incorporating geometric shapes into minor elements like shower curtains or wallpaper. This approach pays homage to the style without letting it take over the entire room.
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Art Deco Fixtures and Mirrors
Choose taps, showerheads, and wall cabinets with symmetrical lines and fancy finishes like chrome, gold, brass, matt black, or nickel. Fluted vanity units known for their ribbed texture and geometric design, serve as a perfect centrepiece for this vintage-inspired look.
Mirrors also play a key part - think about round or octagonal shapes with decorative frames in gold, silver, or black, or pick frameless options with a bevelled edge to capture the spirit of the time.
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Small Bathroom Art Deco Design Tips
In a small bathroom, it’s best to select a key focal point, such as a brass framed mirror or a vanity unit, to anchor your design. This makes it easier to plan the surrounding décor while preventing the space from feeling cluttered. Consider a colour-drenched bathroom in a dark shade that complements the vanity, or a large mirror with hidden lighting to create a standout feature. Mirrors, in particular, can help reflect light and create the illusion of a larger room.
Choosing floral or geometric patterned wallpaper is a fantastic choice for this particular theme. If you opt for patterned wallpaper, use it sparingly—on a single wall or half of a wall behind your focal point. This approach ensures the wallpaper compliments the room rather than overwhelms your chosen feature.
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Expert Tips from Interior Designer
Karen Barcoo, expert Interior Designer at 34 St John, suggests that to truly achieve the artistic look of the Art Deco theme, you need to immerse yourself in the spirit of the era. "Although Art Deco originated in the 1920s and 1930s, exploring movies, art galleries, and exhibitions from the 1950s and 60s can also provide valuable inspiration. These resources offer insight into the colours and patterns that defined the time, helping you visualise the interiors of those periods."
Barcoo adds, "Art Deco remains incredibly popular and is a timeless trend that will never fade from the world of design. Choosing this style is never the wrong decision—it’s a theme you’ll never regret.”
For more guidance, you can consult our bathroom design service, where experts are ready to help bring your vision to life.
