The 1930s brought a remarkable shift in home design, merging both elegance and functionality. Inspired by the art deco movement and the rise of modernism, the 1930s style emphasized clean lines, luxurious materials, and bold, symmetrical patterns. Today, this era’s design principles continue to captivate homeowners seeking to blend vintage charm with modern amenities. If you’re looking to bring the essence of the 1930s into your home, these timeless style tips will help you achieve a balanced, elegant look that feels as relevant today as it did nearly a century ago.
1. Embrace Art Deco Details
The art deco movement, known for its opulent and stylized designs, defined much of 1930s interior aesthetics. Art deco is all about rich, geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and metallic accents. Look for ways to incorporate art deco elements in small or bold ways:
- Furniture: Opt for sofas, chairs, or tables with rounded edges, mirrored surfaces, and lacquer finishes. Art deco furnishings often have a glam factor, with bold shapes and plush materials like velvet or leather.
- Lighting: Chandeliers, sconces, and lamps in art deco style add instant sophistication. Choose lighting with glass, chrome, or brass finishes in angular shapes that cast a warm, inviting glow.
2. Restore and Highlight Natural Materials
1930s homes were built with high-quality materials designed to stand the test of time. Emulating this in your own home can be as simple as choosing natural, durable materials like wood, stone, and brick. If your home already has vintage materials, consider restoring rather than replacing them.
- Woodwork: Look for hardwood flooring and paneling with a natural finish to add warmth. Original 1930s woodwork may have intricate details or be dark-stained, which can easily be cleaned up to retain a vintage feel.
- Marble and Terrazzo: Countertops, bathroom floors, or even table surfaces in terrazzo or marble bring a sense of timeless luxury. Terrazzo was especially popular in the 1930s and has made a comeback in modern design.
3. Revamp with Classic 1930s Color Palettes
The color schemes of the 1930s were striking and stylish, balancing sophistication with coziness. From rich jewel tones to neutral, understated hues, you can choose a palette that reflects your personal style while echoing the period’s trends.
- Deep Tones and Jewel Colors: Emerald green, royal blue, burgundy, and deep shades of purple or black create a bold, luxurious look. Use these colors for accent walls, textiles, or statement furniture pieces.
- Muted Neutrals: For a more understated look, opt for creamy whites, soft grays, and taupe. Pairing these tones with warm lighting and dark wood gives a subtle nod to 1930s interiors without overpowering the space.
4. Enrich Your Space with Vintage Fixtures
Hardware and fixtures are often overlooked in home design, but they are essential for capturing an authentic 1930s feel. From faucets and drawer handles to door knobs, these small details bring elegance to any room.
- Door Handles and Knobs: Choose brass, chrome, or glass for that true vintage feel. Art deco-style door knobs often have unique shapes and finishes that add character to your home.
- Plumbing Fixtures: Opt for curved, streamlined designs in your bathrooms and kitchen. Chrome and nickel finishes were particularly popular in the 1930s and are still readily available.
5. Revisit the Beauty of 1930s Doors
Original 1930s doors add character to any entryway, often featuring solid wood, glass panels, or geometric designs. If you are restoring an older home, keep an eye out for these doors as they can often be refinished or repaired to keep their timeless charm. If you’re building or renovating, consider using door designs inspired by this period to introduce a touch of vintage allure to your interiors.
6. Select Statement Accessories
Accessories in the 1930s were designed to make an impact. Mirrors, artwork, and rugs all played a part in defining the luxurious, bold look of the era. To bring that style into your home, focus on pieces that are elegant and eye-catching.
- Mirrors: A hallmark of art deco design, mirrors were often used as focal points. Choose mirrors with sunburst frames, geometric shapes, or beveled edges to add depth and light to any room.
- Rugs and Textiles: A bold area rug with geometric patterns or contrasting colors can anchor a room, making it feel cohesive and stylish. Look for designs that play with symmetry and bold patterns, true to the 1930s aesthetic.
7. Incorporate Functional Modern Elements
While recreating a 1930s-inspired home, it’s also essential to integrate modern comforts and technology in a way that doesn’t detract from the vintage feel.
- Modern Appliances in Disguise: Many brands offer appliances with vintage-inspired exteriors, allowing you to enjoy modern features without disrupting the 1930s aesthetic. Look for rounded corners and retro-inspired finishes.
- Smart Lighting with a Vintage Look: Modern lighting solutions, like smart bulbs, can be installed in vintage-inspired fixtures, giving you the best of both worlds. You can create a moody, warm atmosphere in keeping with the 1930s style while enjoying customizable brightness levels.
8. Don’t Forget the Outside
The 1930s style wasn’t limited to interiors. If your goal is to recreate an authentic feel, consider making changes to the exterior as well.
- Curb Appeal: Architectural details like iron railings, vintage outdoor lighting, and patterned walkways add charm. Front doors with geometric or circular windows are also characteristic of the period.
- Gardens: A structured garden with trimmed hedges, stone paths, and wrought-iron furniture echoes the 1930s penchant for elegance. An outdoor setup like this will complement the vintage vibe of your interior.
Reviving 1930s style in a modern home is about balancing vintage elegance with contemporary functionality. From art deco-inspired furnishings to the allure of 1930s doors, each element works to create a space that feels rich, cohesive, and timeless. By thoughtfully incorporating these design principles, you can craft a home that honors the past while embracing the best of the present. Whether you’re updating a few rooms or transforming your entire home, the classic style of the 1930s offers plenty of inspiration for a beautiful, enduring space.
