In the realm of interior design, few styles evoke the opulence and sophistication of the roaring 1920s quite like Art Deco. Combining geometric patterns, luxurious materials, and bold colors that created a visual feast for the eyes.
Art Deco grew out of the broader early-20th-century shift away from the softer, more organic Art Nouveau look and toward cleaner, more structured forms. In wallpaper, that meant zigzags, chevrons, sunbursts, fan shapes, stylized florals, and repeated geometric grids.
The early 20’s was when interiors began embracing glamour, modernity and visual drama.
Wallpaper was an ideal way to express Art Deco because the style depended on drama, repetition of pattern and strong visual order. New printing methods and improved color technology helped produce sharper patterns and more saturated hues, making the designs feel crisp and luxurious. That technical progress matched Art Deco’s broader celebration of machine-age elegance and modern living.
Your home does not have to be built in the Art Deco era to be able to use this style in the interior. You can introduce some classic accents with a nod to the style like brass light fittings, mirrored panels, lacquered surfaces and of course wallpaper.
This is an elegant style that is often about making a big, dramatic statement. So dont be afraid to use a big geometric pattern or rich, dark colours.
To avoid your home looking too themed keep a refined look by pairing Deco details with clean-lined furniture and uncluttered surfaces so the ornate elements stand out.
Use your 20’s style wallpaper as a feature wall in:
Consider wallpapering all the walls in a room for a dramatic dining room or powder room.
If the room is open-plan, repeat one motif in a few spots so the style feels intentional rather than scattered without overpowering the space.
Classic Art Deco wallpaper often feels symmetrical, polished, and slightly theatrical. Common features include:
The result was a look that could make a room feel glamorous and elegant without relying on floral decoration or heavy ornaments.
The Art Deco era was all about moving away from the past and paving a new way for the future, culturally and aesthetically, which meant keeping some decorative elements but also giving them a sleeker, cosmopolitan twist. – Hadley Mendelsohn from House Beautiful
Some modern motifs to try out for a 1920’s wallpaper look are:
Use gold details for a classic Gatsby style. But look to navy or rich jewel tones to add a modern twist.
One of the most appealing aspects of Art Deco style wallpaper is its versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of interior styles and spaces.
Art Deco wallpaper continues to enchant and inspire, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of a movement that revolutionized the world of design. With its bold patterns, vibrant colors, and timeless appeal, Art Deco wallpaper can transform spaces into works of art in their own right.
So whether evoking the glamour of the Jazz Age or adding a touch of sophistication to a modern interiors, 1930’s back to 1920’s wallpaper look steadfastly remains an inspirational style of elegance and refinement.
Enter your details before you go, we will save your cart and who knows maybe even send you a discount code...
Open from 9 til 12.30 Friday 28th Nov
Drop in all morning for a great deal
