1920s Decor: Classical Is Making A Comeback

The period between 1920 and 1930 is the pinnacle of the classic look that personified glamor and grace. It resounded from the clothes and looks of the time, to the architecture all around it. It was a time of self-assurance and prosperity.

The Great Depression occurred in 1929 and would haunt the U.S. until we entered World War II. Up until that time, it was a party scene of flappers and elegance. After the depression, the United States was still in shock and was led to a decade of ultra conservatism and austerity that would not be resolved until the 1960s.

That 1920s classical look is making a comeback in modern days through the burlesque clubs of California and the pin-up looks accompanied by a multitude of tattoos. It’s a melding of the old with the new, as the shapely and curvature decor that dominated the era is seen in more and more homes.

That era symbolized strength and independence, and that is echoed in the decor. It doesn’t matter if it’s an authentic period piece, which can be very expensive, or a modern rendition. The look is a mix of the Colonial and Georgian styles, which create the Art Moderne.

It was a time of change as we were becoming a more industrialized nation, but still held on to the styles of the 19th Century. The style looks elegant, but it is also very simple. It symbolizes the “less is more” concept perfectly.

A highlight of this style was utilization of space using built-in furniture such as bookcases, window seats and breakfast nooks. Bathrooms in particular became focal points where before they were more austere. Instead of standard white, they were festooned with pastels to bring a feeling of coziness while doing your business.

The carefree days of the 1920s are gone, but their feeling and intent can remain. If you have a connection to those elegant times, then you can make your home mimic that sentiment through space utilization and decor.

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