10 Decades of Vintage Color and Design: The 1920s

The third installment of our 10 Decades of Vintage Color and Design series: The 1920s, known as the Roaring Twenties, the decade following WWI was all about celebration. The war was over, things were looking up. Wall colors were toned down to showcase the sleek lines of the Art Deco era. Bright metallics and opulent details were front and center.  Modernization was all the rage and new ideas flowed like water.

A fabulous geometric fireplace surround done in multiple layered metals was a chic focal point. Layers of textiles such as piano scarves, fringed pillows on overstuffed sofas, and canopy beds added to the glamorous look. Kitchens painted in soft buttery yellows with floral curtains. Peach velvet upholstery with sage green accents were popular. Curved archways in Spanish-style homes with hardwood floors and filled with bright-colored pottery.

At the other end of the spectrum in the 1920s was the Arts and Crafts Movement. The heart of the movement was craftsmen-styled bungalows as well as a dedication to quality craftsmanship as opposed to manufacturing efficiency. The sinuous curves and minimalist lines of the Art Deco look inspired the American Arts and Crafts Movement long after it had taken hold in Europe and Great Britain. Simpler lines took center stage with an emphasis on the artistic individuality of each piece. Less was more. Natural local stone and wood elements were essential.

Recreating the look of the 1920s for your modern home can go in either direction.

To get a Deco theme use soft shades and sumptuous fabrics. Layering patterned scarves across a table, piling on pillows or adding luxe textures like velvet emulates the sultry style of Art Deco. Don’t forget to include a few brass or gilt items to bring some sparkle to any room. The 1980s took some cues from the era with curves and pastel colors. Think about ceramic lamps and vases with flowing shapes in peach or mauve. Or brass bookends in shell or rainbow shapes. Add some round velvet tufted pillows in subtle shades.

Get the Look of the 1920s: Deco Style

For a Craftsman look, adding a pop of a primary color in a bold shape, simple minimalist designed items, and handmade pottery pieces in dark rich colors (similar to Rookwood) pieces works. Craftsman-style homes tend to have lots of exposed wood. Walls, cupboards, staircases all show off the natural grain of the wood. Large throw rugs in solid colors and natural shades rather than carpeting show off the original hardwood floors. Furniture in pared-down shapes with a minimal amount of flourish work. Furnishing your home with designs that mimic the  Stickley Morris chair and Mission-style tables will help to recreate the look of the Craftsman style 1920s home.

Get the Look of the 1920s: Craftsman Style

Notes: Apartment Therapy has a great article on recreating the look of the 1920s for a modern home. Click Americana has a series of fabulous ads by Armstrong’s Linoleum from 1920, 21, & 22 showcasing not only flooring but whole rooms from the 1920s.

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