Origins of Art Deco Houses
Art Deco architecture emerged in Europe in the early 20th century but gained popularity in America during the 1920s and 1930s. The style was heavily influenced by modernist movements such as Cubism and Futurism, as well as ancient art forms such as Egyptian and Greek motifs. The idea behind Art Deco was to create an aesthetic that combined modern technology with classical elegance.
One notable feature of Art Deco houses is their emphasis on symmetry and sleek lines. These characteristics were achieved through new construction methods such as steel framing and reinforced concrete. The style also incorporated new materials such as glass, chrome, and polished stone for a more luxurious look.
When Were Art Deco Houses Built?
Art Deco houses were primarily built during the interwar period between World War I and World War II. This era saw significant economic growth in countries like America which led to an increase in home ownership for middle-class Americans who sought to express their newfound wealth through their homes.
One example of an Art Deco house is the famous Paimio Sanatorium designed by Alvar Aalto in Finland. Built-in 1933-4, this building features clean lines with curved corners utilizing white marble finishes throughout its interior spaces while still managing to adhere to traditional Finnish design elements for a unique blend of traditionalism mixed with modernity.
Another example of an Art Deco building from this time period is the Empire State Building in New York City, built-in 1931. This iconic skyscraper embodies the sleek, geometric aesthetic of Art Deco with its Art Deco-inspired lobby and observation deck. The building features a sleek tapered design with an ornamental crown and beautiful lighting that reflects the style’s glamorous, streamlined appeal.
In conclusion, Art Deco houses were built during the interwar period between World War I and World War II. They were characterized by their clean lines, symmetry, luxurious materials and a blend of modern technology with classical elegance. Examples of Art Deco houses include the famous Paimio Sanatorium and Empire State Building. These buildings remain icons of architectural history due to their unique blend of traditionalism mixed with modernity as well as their attention to detail in design and construction methods.
