Art Deco Architecture Characteristics
The Art Deco Movement was a short-lived movement, from (1920s to 1930s). The term “art deco” was coined from an exposition in Paris during the year 1925, “Exposition Internationale des Arts Decoratifs”. Even though art deco movement lasted for only a short period of time, it was still able to influence all areas of design even up to the present time. One area of design that was highly influenced by art deco is architecture. Architectures with art deco design were highly overstated with bold edges, geometric shapes, ziggurats, and sunrise patterns.
Art Deco Representation
Art Deco Architecture
One of the reasons why art deco design was immediately and totally loved by a lot of people way back up to the present time is that it represents modernity, luxury, elegance, beauty, and glamour. During the period of art deco movement (1920s to 1930s), it was a time of high hopes, great societal advancements, women independence, and joy.
Art Deco Architecture Characteristics
Once you see an architectural structure with rectangular blocky forms that are arranged in geometric patterns that can sometimes be broken up by ornamental elements, then you can surely say that kind of architecture is made with an art deco design. To properly identify art deco architectural structures, I will provide more detailed characteristics of art deco architectures.
Art Deco Architecture Materials
Materials often used in making art deco architectures include:
- Stucco
- Concrete
- Smooth Face Stone
- Terracotta
- Glass Blocks
- Decorative Opaque Plate Glass or Vitrolite
- Steel
- Aluminum
Art Deco Architecture Roof Designs
There are certain roof designs that are commonly used in art deco architectures.
- Flat Roof Design
- Spires
- Tower-Like Roof Design
- Roofs with Chimneys to enhance art design
Art Deco Architecture Windows Designs
Window designs in art deco architecture have certain design characteristics. These design characteristics include:
- Windows with punctured square or round openings
Windows in art deco architectures are usually arranged horizontally and continuously. Decorative glass and glass blocks are also usually used to cover wall openings, which can also permit sunlight to enter the architecture.
Art Deco Architecture Door Designs
Door designs play a very big part in any structure. That is why, in art deco architecture, doors are embellished with decorations and patterns to make it stand out. However, the quality and extent on a door’s embellishments and other patterns will greatly depend on the architectural designer.