Furniture in the Art Deco style is characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and strong symmetry. Common materials include chrome and glass, as well as exotic woods such as macassar ebony and bird's eye maple.
Architectural Style: Understanding the characteristics and elements of Art Deco architecture, such as the use of geometric shape, bold colors, and stylized motifs.
Historical Context: Knowing the historical and social background of the Art Deco movement, which emerged during the interwar period of the early 20th century as a response to the devastation of World War I.
Materials: Identifying the materials commonly used in Art Deco furniture, such as exotic woods, metals, and glass.
Furniture Design: Learning the characteristic features of Art Deco furniture design, such as streamlined shape, symmetrical forms, and the use of luxurious materials.
Interior Design: Knowing how Art Deco furniture fits into the larger context of interior design, including wallpaper, lighting, and other decorative elements.
Famous Designers: Becoming familiar with the major Art Deco furniture designers and their contributions to the movement. Examples include Emile-Jacques Ruhlmann, Paul Frankl, and Jacques-Emile Rulhmann.
Collecting Art Deco Furniture: Understanding the various methods of collecting Art Deco furniture, including attending auctions, visiting galleries and museums, and purchasing online.
Restoration and Maintenance: Knowing the methods and techniques involved in restoring and maintaining Art Deco furniture, including refinishing, reupholstering, and cleaning.
Regional Variations: Identifying regional variations of Art Deco furniture design, such as the influence of Hollywood glamour or European Modernism.
Contemporary Art Deco: Keeping up to date with contemporary Art Deco furniture design and its influence on contemporary interior design.
Armchair: An upholstered comfortable chair with armrests.
Buffet: A furniture piece with a cabinet and a surface for serving.
Cabinet: A freestanding cupboard or storage unit.
Chaise lounge: A long, low chair with a backrest that slopes at one end.
Chest of drawers: A piece of furniture with multiple drawers for storage.
Coffee table: A low table typically used in living rooms, often with a glass top.
Console table: A narrow table usually placed against a wall, with short legs or no legs.
Desk: A flat table with drawers or compartments that serves as a workspace.
Dressing table: A table with a mirror and drawers used for personal grooming.
Sideboard: A long, low storage unit used for serving and storing objects.
Sofa: A comfortable upholstered two or three-seater seat.
Lamp: A light fixture designed with Art Deco elements.
Mirror: A flat or convex reflective surface, often with geometric shapes.
Cabinet doors: Often made of glass, with geometric shapes and patterns.
Windows: Many Art Deco buildings have windows with geometric shapes, such as zigzag or octagonal.
Stairs: Art Deco buildings often feature ornate spiral or curved staircases.
Elevator doors: Often made of ornate metals or decorated glass.
Building Facades: Buildings designed in Art Deco style typically feature sleek lines with stepped forms and repetition of geometric shapes.
Mantel clocks: Often made of ornate metals and featuring geometric designs.
Wall hangings: These Art Deco pieces often feature bold geometric patterns and bright colors.