Bridge For Design Spring 2014 Bridge For Design Spring 2014 Issue | Page 44

DESIGN TRENDS | view point

ART DECO LUXURY CHIC
Christopher Guy Harrison celebrates the romance of the decadent jazz age

E

vocative of the jazz-­
a ge, with clean lines and
architectural detailing, the designs of the 1920’s and
1930’s remain a key trend within luxury furniture
design.
The use of solid hardwoods, with high-­ loss
g
and polished surfaces, creates a dramatic
statement as well as adding a touch of
timeless elegance to your interior
design scheme.
Taking inspiration from
celebrated
Parisian
chic,
furniture and accessories that
embody this style make subtle
references
to
neo-­
classical
and Georgian design, while
remaining true to the principals
of Art Moderne.
The attention to detail in each
design ensures this
surpasses
seasonal trends to remain ever
popular and current. Furniture, for
example, is often characterised by its
perfect proportions, with tapered legs, hand
carving, oval back chairs and the use of mirror and
glass with an antique finish.
What makes this an enduring trend is the simplicity of the
design. It works in harmony with other styles, allowing you to
either make it the main theme for your interior design scheme,
or alternatively, use one or two key items as accent pieces to
co-­ rdinate with existing furniture.
o
It’s complementary, making it effortlessly stylish, whether
for a London townhouse, New York loft apartment or Hong
Kong high-­ ise.
r
Upholstered furniture suits a sophisticated colour palette.

44

Bridge for Design Spring 2014

Rich monochrome fabrics fit the trend perfectly, but it’s
important not to overuse. Instead, pick one or two statement
pieces to cover.
Soft, delicate pastels in pink, cream, blue and
yellow hues will create a classic, timeless look.
Alternatively, for a more dramatic effect,
opt for a combination of deep reds,
bottle greens or this season’s must-­
have teal. Stick to solid colours and
avoid patterns, which can quickly
detract from the chic, elegant
look.
Experiment with different
types of fabrics, such as silk,
raffia and even soft leather.
The zeitgeist of modernism/
Art Moderne has been captured
by popular culture throughout the
last century.
Even today, with films such as
the adaptation of F Scott Fitzgerald’s
Great Gatsby, which perfectly evokes
the elegance, romance and decadence of the
jazz-­ ge, make it attractive to a younger and wider
a
audience. This was one of the most talked about and covered
design trends in the media during 2013.
For me, what’s so special about contemporary Parisian
chic, is its sumptuous and flirtatious elegance. It teases with its
subtle, coy forms and allures you into a prestigious world as if
casting a spell on the room. B

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Christopher Guy Harrison
T:[phone] | www.christopherguy.com