20 Art Deco Revival Mistakes That Scream Tacky, Not Classy

The Art Deco Revival: A Delicate Balance Between Classy and Tacky

Imagine walking into a room that feels like a time capsule from the Roaring Twenties, complete with geometric patterns, luxurious materials, and a dash of old-world glamour. That’s what the Art Deco revival promises – a return to the opulence and sophistication of a bygone era. However, like a fine cocktail, the Art Deco revival requires a delicate balance of ingredients. Too much of a good thing, and what’s meant to be classy can quickly turn tacky.

The resurgence of Art Deco in interior design is no surprise. Designers and homeowners alike are drawn to its bold patterns, strong colors, and nostalgic appeal. But, as with any design trend, there’s a thin line between elegance and excess. Let’s explore the common mistakes that can turn an Art Deco-inspired space from classy to tacky.

Recent surveys indicate that Art Deco is making a comeback, with its popularity expected to rise in 2024. According to designers, the style’s bold patterns and strong colors are key factors in its resurgence. However, incorporating Art Deco elements into modern spaces requires thoughtfulness to avoid overdoing it. As Jill Steinberg, co-founder and COO of Fine & Dandy Co., notes, “Art Deco never really went away,” and its versatility makes it a perfect match for transitional styles.

20 Art Deco Revival Mistakes to Avoid

#	Mistake	Explanation	How to Fix
1	Overusing geometric patterns	Too many patterns can overwhelm the space.	Balance patterns with neutral elements.
2	Ignoring symmetry	Art Deco is all about symmetry.	Use mirrored elements or balanced compositions.
3	Misusing luxurious materials	Overuse of materials like gold and velvet can feel tacky.	Use these materials sparingly for accent pieces.
4	Forgetting about restraint	Art Deco is about elegance and restraint.	Balance opulent elements with simpler ones.
5	Not considering the era’s context	Art Deco was a product of its time.	Incorporate vintage pieces or historical references.
6	Overdoing it with accessories	Too many accessories can clutter the space.	Choose a few statement pieces.
7	Mixing too many styles	Art Deco doesn’t mix well with all styles.	Stick to compatible styles like minimalism or mid-century modern.
8	Ignoring the power of lighting	Lighting can make or break an Art Deco space.	Use geometric-shaped lighting fixtures or crystal chandeliers.
9	Not balancing bold colors	Bold colors need neutral backgrounds.	Use a neutral palette with pops of bold color.
10	Forgetting about texture	Texture adds depth to Art Deco spaces.	Incorporate different textures like velvet, glass, and wood.
11	Overlooking the importance of scale	Large pieces can overwhelm the space.	Choose pieces that are proportional to the room.
12	Not considering the room’s purpose	Different rooms require different approaches.	Tailor your Art Deco elements to the room’s function.
13	Ignoring the impact of patterns on walls	Wall patterns can be overwhelming.	Use patterns on walls sparingly or in small areas.
14	Not balancing old and new elements	Mixing old and new can be jarring.	Balance vintage pieces with modern elements.
15	Overusing metallic finishes	Too much metal can feel cold.	Balance metallic finishes with warmer materials.
16	Forgetting about greenery	Greenery can add warmth to Art Deco spaces.	Incorporate plants or green walls.
17	Not considering the color palette	Art Deco is known for its bold colors.	Choose a palette that includes deep jewel tones.
18	Ignoring the role of furniture shapes	Furniture shapes can define the space.	Choose pieces with geometric or rounded shapes.
19	Overlooking the importance of rugs	Rugs can tie the space together.	Choose rugs with geometric patterns or luxurious materials.
20	Not having fun with it	Art Deco is about glamour and fun.	Experiment with different elements and enjoy the process.

The Art Deco revival is all about embracing the glamour and sophistication of a bygone era. By avoiding common mistakes and incorporating thoughtful design elements, you can create a space that feels classy, not tacky. Remember, the key to a successful Art Deco revival is balance – between opulence and restraint, between old and new, and between bold patterns and neutral elements.

So, go ahead and indulge in the luxurious world of Art Deco. With a little thoughtfulness and a lot of flair, you can create a space that’s truly timeless.