Emerging from the crucible of pre-World War I France, Art Deco was a stylistic revolution that profoundly influenced the visual arts, design, fashion, and architecture of its era. The term itself was coined after the 1925 Paris exhibition showcasing the movement's opulent and modern aesthetic. This style extended its reach across diverse realms, from the sleek lines of airplanes and ocean liners to the intricate details of jewelry and everyday objects. Art Deco's angular and geometric forms presented a stark contrast to the softer, organic lines of its predecessor, Art Nouveau.
London, too, was captivated by Art Deco's allure. The city's skyline transformed as buildings like the Daily Express building adopted the style's bold geometric patterns and lavish ornamentation. Art Deco's influence extended beyond architecture, shaping the interiors of homes, offices, and public spaces. The London Underground stations, with their streamlined designs and decorative motifs, became iconic examples of the movement's impact on transportation. This era of optimism and technological advancement found its perfect expression in Art Deco, and its legacy continues to shape London's architectural and cultural landscape.
London stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Art Deco architecture. The city is a treasure trove of iconic buildings that exemplify the style's characteristic blend of geometric forms, opulent materials, and streamlined elegance.
Prime examples of Art Deco grandeur include the Daily Telegraph building, a soaring skyscraper that dominates the London skyline; the OXO Building, renowned for its distinctive signage; and the imposing Battersea Power Station, a symbol of industrial might transformed into a cultural hub. Other notable structures showcasing the Art Deco aesthetic are the Hoover Building, a sleek and modern office block; Broadcasting House, the headquarters of the BBC; and the opulent Eltham Palace, a residential masterpiece.
Beyond these iconic landmarks, London is replete with lesser-known Art Deco gems, demonstrating the style's pervasive influence on the city's built environment. From residential blocks to cinemas and department stores, the Art Deco touch can be found in countless corners of the metropolis.
Moreover, Art Deco's impact extends beyond architecture. The city is adorned with exquisite examples of Art Deco decorative arts, such as the renowned Eric Gill sculptures gracing the former London Transport headquarters above St James's Park tube station. These masterpieces, in close proximity to the grandeur of Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, underscore the style's ability to seamlessly integrate into various urban contexts.
London's rich tapestry of Art Deco architecture and design offers a captivating journey through a bygone era of optimism, innovation, and aesthetic refinement.
The Victoria & Albert Museum houses an extensive collection of Art Deco objects, many of which are on permanent display. The V&A, as it is fondly known, is the world's largest museum of decorative and applied art, holding well over 2 million exhibits.
Expect to see Art Deco-inspired examples of printmaking, ceramics and glass, home wares and fashion. Here are works from such famous names as Lalique, Frank Lloyd Wright and Clarice Cliff as well as a host of instantly recognisable design classics, such as Bakelite radios and other goods which brought the style within reach of the man or woman in the street. The museum is located on Cromwell Road, South Kensington and periodically hosts special events on themes connected to Art Deco.
The Tate Modern houses a vast collection of modern art, much of which has its roots in art deco or has had an influence on Art Deco - such as Cubism (Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque) and Bauhaus (e.g. Wassily Kandinsky and Paul Klee). Not only great pieces of Art Deco inspired art within, the architectural design of the building itself is influenced by art deco and modernism.
The London Transport Museum is a treasure trove for Art Deco enthusiasts. The museum houses a remarkable collection of Art Deco-inspired posters, signage, and design elements that were integral to London's transport system during the 1920s and 1930s.
The iconic London Underground posters, in particular, are prime examples of Art Deco's influence on graphic design. Artists like Frank Pick and Edward McKnight Kauffer created visually striking and innovative posters that captured the spirit of the era.
Immerse yourself in the roaring twenties with this London Art Deco Tour: Journey through London's vibrant art deco scene, from Battersea Power Station's reinvention to Eltham Palace's opulent time capsule. Sip a martini at the legendary Savoy, where echoes of the jazz age still linger. Your glamorous adventure awaits!
