Sleek, opulent art deco returns with its modern yet classic appeal

Art deco was one of the shortest-lived design periods in history.

The roots of art deco were formed in the late 1800s, but it is now largely defined as the period between the two world wars. It was as prevalent in architecture as it was in furnishings and jewelry — Rockefeller Center, the Chrysler Building and even the Empire State Building are all deco style.

All about sensational, freewheeling modern living and daring new designs, deco was hit hard by the looming Second World War. It was time to pack up the Charleston records, put away glamorous accoutrements and face harsh reality.

But the style never seems to go quietly, or for long.

The reason art deco furniture is popular again now is easy to figure, said James Caughman, senior marketing director for Chicago-based Baker Furniture, part of the Kohler Interiors Group.

“Art deco designers synthesized simple forms, exquisite materials and luxurious finishes to create a truly modern expression. We’re comfortable with the familiar shapes and proportions,” he said.

When we think of art deco home furnishings, we envision voluptuous leather or velvet upholstered club chairs, sleek lacquered cabinetry, gleaming martini sets and mirrored boudoir vanities. Hallmarks include geometric or rounded silhouettes, inlays and veneers, ornamentation such as starbursts and zigzags, and machine age materials such as aluminum, plastic and steel.