Home Decor from the 1920s That Still Inspires Modern Interiors
- Stephen Patrick
- Jun 19
- 8 min read
Updated: Jun 26
Art Deco design, home decor from the 1920s, renowned for its glamour and elegance, is experiencing a significant comeback. With its bold shapes, rich colors, and luxurious feel, this classic style continues to inspire many modern homes today.
But today's Art Deco isn't just about vintage charm — it's getting a modern makeover. Think sleek lines, simpler layouts, and updated color schemes that bring a fresh 1920s interior design with a modern twist.
Whether you're a longtime fan of the Roaring Twenties or want to add a touch of sparkle and sophistication to your space, modern Art Deco has something for everyone. In this blog, we'll explore how this timeless style is evolving — and how you can bring it into your own home.
The Essence of Art Deco Interior Design
Art Deco design first gained popularity in the 1920s, during a period of significant transformation, marked by new technology, rapid growth, and shifting cultural trends. This exciting era introduced a bold new look to home interiors, characterized by personality and flair. One of the most recognizable features of the 1920s design style is its use of geometric patterns. Think zigzags, chevrons, and sunburst shapes showing up on everything from wallpaper to furniture.
Homes decorated in this style were all about luxury and drama. Designers used shiny metals, such as chrome and brass, to create a sleek, modern vibe. Rich woods, polished to a high shine, added warmth and texture. For a touch of elegance, details such as ivory or mother-of-pearl were often incorporated. When it came to color, bold was best — deep greens, vibrant reds, rich blues, and lots of gold and silver made these rooms stand out with confidence and glamour.
Incorporating 1920s decoration ideas into Modern Homes
Bringing a bit of that glamorous 1920s flair into your space is all about balance — mixing bold style with modern ease. Start by selecting a few statement pieces that evoke the Art Deco style. A curved velvet sofa in a jewel tone or a sleek mirrored coffee table can instantly give your room that iconic look.
Stick to a rich, dramatic color palette. Think emerald green, navy blue, black, gold, and touches of silver or brass. These shades bring depth and luxury, especially when paired with metallic accents for that extra sparkle. Lighting also plays a significant role — look for pieces with vintage-inspired shapes and luxurious finishes, such as a geometric chandelier or a gold-trimmed table lamp.
Don't forget texture. Soft, high-end fabrics like velvet, silk, and satin add a layer of richness that makes the whole space feel more indulgent. Finally, tie everything together with accessories that echo the classic Art Deco style — mirrors with sunburst frames, sculptural vases, and bold artwork can all help complete the look.
The goal? A space that feels timeless, elegant, and just a little bit extravagant — in the best way.
Modern Art Deco Trends
Modern Art Deco interiors preserve the glamour and charm of the home decor from the 1920s, while also incorporating fresh, modern touches to suit today's homes. The result is a stylish mix of old and new that feels both timeless and current.
One popular trend is blending the rich, bold look of classic Art Deco with a more minimalist approach. This helps tone down the drama and creates a clean, elegant vibe that doesn't feel too over-the-top. There is also a growing focus on sustainability — materials such as bamboo, recycled metals, and eco-friendly finishes are being used more frequently, demonstrating that luxury and environmental responsibility can coexist.
Another key element? Technology. Smart lighting, hidden speakers, and sleek entertainment systems are being built right into the design, giving your space modern function without losing that vintage flair. With this thoughtful balance, today's Art Deco style is not just beautiful — it's smart, sustainable, and totally livable.
Practical Tips for Glamorous Home Decor
If you want to bring the bold, stylish feel of Art Deco into your home, there are a few easy ways to get started. With the right mix of 1920 interior design ideas, you can create a space that feels both elegant and luxurious — just like the classic 1920s style.
Choosing the Right Art Deco Colors
To achieve the classic Art Deco look, opt for bold, rich colors that were popular in the 1920s. Deep emerald green, ruby red, sapphire blue, and shiny gold or silver bring drama and elegance to any room. These colors make a big statement, so it helps to balance them with soft neutrals like ivory, cream, or warm taupe. The mix of vibrant tones and calming shades creates a stylish, balanced space that feels both glamorous and timeless.
Textures and Patterns That Bring Art Deco to Life
To make your space feel rich and interesting, play with a mix of textures and patterns. Use soft, elegant fabrics like velvet, silk, satin, or leather for items such as cushions, curtains, and furniture. When it comes to patterns, go for classic Art Deco styles — bold chevrons, zigzags, and sunburst shapes are perfect. To add even more depth, combine shiny surfaces like glass or polished metal with textured fabrics or decorative details. This mix helps create that luxurious, layered look home decor from the 1920s is known for.
Mixing Old and New in Art Deco Style
To create a stylish Art Deco-inspired space that feels timeless, try mixing vintage charm with modern design. Add classic Deco pieces like a glossy sideboard, a mirrored vanity, or a bold geometric rug. Then, balance them with modern furniture that has clean lines and a simple look. This blend keeps the space elegant and full of character while also making it feel fresh and up-to-date — the perfect mix of classic and contemporary.
Using Lighting to Create an Art Deco Feel
Lighting is key to getting that glamorous Art Deco look. It's not just about brightening a room — it's about setting the mood and showing off the style. Try layering different types of lighting, like ambient lighting for overall glow, task lighting for specific areas, and accent lighting to highlight special features.
A bold chandelier with geometric shapes or shiny metallic finishes can become a stunning centerpiece, especially in living or dining rooms. Wall sconces and table lamps made with glass, brass, or other rich materials add extra sparkle and style. And don't forget about natural light! Use light curtains or elegant window treatments that let sunlight shine through softly, helping to highlight colors and textures while keeping the space warm and welcoming. With the right lighting, your home decor from the 1920s will truly shine.
Art Deco By Room: Bringing Glamour and Function to Every Corner
The Living Room
The living room is the perfect place to show off the bold and elegant style of Art Deco. Start with a rug that features a strong geometric pattern, or opt for a large area rug to anchor the space. Select furniture with clean lines and rich fabrics, such as velvet or leather, and look for details in chrome or brass for a touch of shine. A standout piece, such as a glossy sideboard or a mirrored coffee table, can add extra flair.
Lighting is also important—try a dramatic chandelier with a tiered or sunburst design, and pair it with stylish table lamps made of frosted glass or metal. Add mirrors with bold, geometric frames to make the space feel bigger and more refined. Use deep, rich colors like emerald green, sapphire blue, or burgundy, and balance them with neutral walls so the bold pieces really stand out. For both style and function, built-in shelves with metal accents can add smart storage while keeping the sleek look.
The Bedroom
Turn your bedroom into a stylish 1920s design style inspired escape. Start with a bold headboard—think velvet, mirrored panels, or geometric shapes. Add mirrored furniture like nightstands or vanity to reflect light and make the room feel more spacious. Choose rich, calming colors like deep navy, emerald green, or charcoal, and pair them with touches of gold, silver, or cream for a soft, elegant look.
Go for luxurious fabrics to make the space feel extra cozy—high-quality sheets, satin or silk pillowcases, and plush velvet throws are great options. Use layered lighting to set a relaxing mood, such as wall lights by the bed or decorative table lamps. Finally, add subtle geometric patterns with your bedding or a stylish rug to tie the whole look together.
The Kitchen
Want to give your kitchen a touch of vintage glamour? Art Deco style can make it feel both elegant and functional. Start with sleek lines and glossy finishes. A bold backsplash—think black and white patterns or metallic accents—instantly adds character. For cabinets, opt for rich colors like navy, emerald, or jet black, finished in high-gloss for a signature shine. Chrome or brass handles give a perfect nod to the 1920s design style.
Mix retro-style appliances with modern ones, or opt for sleek, minimalist models that blend seamlessly with the decor. Lighting makes a big difference—choose statement pendant lights with frosted glass or shiny metal to tie it all together. Complete the look with a polished granite or marble countertop that has strong, eye-catching patterns. It's a great way to mix timeless elegance with today's convenience.
The Closet
Even a small closet can feel luxurious with a few Art Deco touches. Use sleek shelves or cabinets in dark wood or glossy finishes to give it a polished look. Add a large mirror or mirrored closet doors to reflect light and make the space feel bigger and brighter. Choose metal accents like chrome or brass for handles and hanging rods to add a bit of shine. Keep things neat with an organized system—matching hangers, especially velvet ones, can make a big difference.
To take your closet organization up a notch, try using Roomedys® Spacing Tape for Hangers (RST). It's a simple yet clever tool that helps you space your hangers evenly, so your clothes stay wrinkle-free and easy to browse through. Whether you prefer tight spacing or more breathing room between garments, RST lets you adjust the gap to your liking—single, double, or triple. It's a small upgrade that makes your closet feel cleaner, more stylish, and way more functional.
If you have enough space, add a small velvet stool or chair for a cozy, elegant touch. With just a few changes, your closet can feel like your own stylish dressing room.
Conclusion
The classic home decor from the 1920s is a great way to add charm and elegance to modern spaces. By using key ideas from that era—like clean lines, rich materials, smart storage, and a bit of glamour—you can turn any room into a space that feels both beautiful and functional. It's all about making your home look great and work well for your everyday life. Even practical areas like closets and kitchens can feel stylish with just a few thoughtful touches. Take inspiration from the past and bring a little Art Deco magic into your home today.
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Author: Stephen Patrick
Stephen is the Founder and CEO of the Roomedys® brand. Stephen’s inaugural, multi-patented invention, Roomedys® Spacing Tape for Hangers (RST), is poised to transform the world of closet organization. Having spent 25 years in the hospitality industry, Stephen is an expert in functional organization. His mantra, “Everything has a place; everything stays in place,” is the key to achieving a realistic & maintainable routine that provides a feeling of balance and well-being.
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