Decor 101: The Real Difference Between Art Nouveau And Art Deco

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While art nouveau and art deco are often lumped together as "vintage-inspired design," they're actually two very different styles of art movements in completely different eras. Not only did they happen a few decades apart, but they're also based on entirely different philosophies and visual styles. Art Nouveau decor first surfaced in the late 1800s, and it's often described as the very first modern art style.

Unlike other movements before it, Art Nouveau embraced progress and change. Its goal was to blend art with everyday life, and it was heavily inspired by nature and fluidity. Some of its major characteristics are pastel hues, floral shapes, flowing lines, and soft details. Art Deco appeared in the 1920s, and it had a completely different energy than that of Art Nouveau. It was inspired by the aftermath of the Industrial Revolution. Think bold and vibrant colors, streamlined modern sleekness, and shiny materials. This movement embraced the machine age, but it also added a touch of luxury and glamour.

When it comes to interior decor, the difference truly matters. With curved furniture, floral wallpapers, pastel hues, stained glass accents, and the use of natural light, Art Nouveau brings a whimsical and romantic touch to a space. In contrast, Art Deco is all about being bold-colored and glamorous. It favors chrome and gold accents, structured silhouettes, geometric patterns, and statement lighting. So, let's discuss how to incorporate vintage decor from these different eras the right way. 

If Art Nouveau is sounding like just the interior design style you were seeking, then you're right where you need to be. We can help you incorporate the charm of the romantic movement without giving your space a full-blown vintage makeover. Art Nouveau embraces softness, neutrals, pastels, and elegant curves that will bring warmth to any room.

According to Wayfair, you can begin introducing Art Nouveau into your space with decorative accent pieces. It's a low-commitment way for you to experiment with this style. It can be anything from floral-patterned vases, throw pillows with rhythmical patterns, or even stained glasswork to get a better feel for the look. Once you find pieces that work, you can consider layering in more pieces like artworks from iconic artists like Gustav Klimt and William Morris. Even a poster would work, and this William Morris Retro Violet and Columbine Print is an economical and aesthetic option worth looking into.

Art Nouveau-style lighting is another impactful detail that can really set the tone of your space. Look for curved lines or delicate floral or vine-like motifs, like this Garwarm 4-Light Vintage Crystal Chandelier. Also, don't forget about colors. Soft neutrals and pastel tones are what you'll want to opt for when trying to achieve an Art Nouveau-feeling space. You can take a more modern approach by using a good mix of cream tones, gentle patterns, and soft blues or purples. This will help create that signature blend of warmth Art Nouveau is centered on while also being modern.

A movement known for its obsession with symmetry, shiny and rich materials, bold geometric shapes, and statement lighting, Art Deco is perfect for those who embrace modernism and structure. It's a dramatic departure from the soft romantic touches of Art Nouveau and hones in on bold-colored palettes, polished finishes, and eye-catching clean architectural lines. Jessica Lagrange of Jessica Lagrange Interiors told Architectural Digest that when it comes to Art Deco, the best way to apply it to a space is by using scattered touches of the movement here and there rather than decorating an entire room in the style. With the addition of a couple of bold accent pieces, such as a statement light fixture, a chrome side table, or a bold-colored rug with an intricate geometric pattern design, your space can have the Art Deco glam without giving the impression you've done too much.

If you feel like you want a bit more Art Deco glam than a few bold accent pieces, then make it your next mission to find a large mirror with chrome detailing. Mirrors and chrome detailing are popular traits of Art Deco interiors, so a piece that combines both is a distinctive way to add more of its signature edge into your space. Once you've accomplished that and your Art Deco craving is still unsatisfied, then it's time to start adding bold, jewel-toned furniture pieces. In this design style, the addition of bold pops of color pieces neutralizing the chrome and mirror details to bring warmth to a space that would otherwise be too cold.