Buildings designed in Art Deco style

Buildings designed in the Art Deco style are characterized by distinctive features that reflect the design aesthetics of the 1920s and 1930s. Here are key features commonly found in Art Deco architecture:

1. Geometric Shapes:
   • Art Deco emphasizes bold geometric shapes, including zigzags, chevrons, rectangles, and trapezoids. These shapes are often used in architectural details, facades, and ornamentation.
2. Symmetry:
   • Symmetry is a prominent feature in Art Deco design. Buildings often have a balanced and symmetrical appearance, with a central axis and mirrored elements on either side.
3. Streamlined Forms:
   • Art Deco embraces a sense of modernity and progress. Streamlined, aerodynamic forms are common, reflecting the influence of industrial design and the machine age.
4. Ornamental Detailing:
   • Elaborate ornamentation is a hallmark of Art Deco architecture. Buildings feature decorative friezes, reliefs, and bas-reliefs that often depict stylized flora, fauna, and other motifs.
5. Decorative Materials:
   • The use of luxurious and exotic materials is typical in Art Deco buildings. This includes materials such as marble, granite, glass, chrome, and stainless steel, which contribute to the style’s opulent and glamorous feel.
6. Bold Colors:
   • Art Deco structures often feature bold color schemes. Vibrant and contrasting colors, including deep blues, reds, golds, and black, are used to create visual interest and drama.
7. Terraced or Step Designs:
   • Art Deco buildings may incorporate terraced or stepped designs, with setbacks that create a tiered appearance. This adds to the overall sense of verticality and emphasizes the building’s height.
8. Elongated Windows:
   • Windows in Art Deco architecture are often elongated and vertically oriented. They may feature metal or glass details, such as geometric patterns or metal mullions, contributing to the overall aesthetic.
9. Sculptural Elements:
   • Sculptural elements, such as statues, reliefs, or decorative sculptures, are common in Art Deco design. These elements often depict stylized human figures, animals, or mythological themes.
10. Flat Roofs:
    • Flat or slightly stepped roofs are characteristic of Art Deco buildings. These roofs contribute to the streamlined and modern appearance of the structures.
11. Use of Typography:
    • Typography and lettering are often integrated into the design of Art Deco buildings, especially in signage and exterior detailing. Elegant and stylized fonts add to the overall visual impact.
12. Sunbursts and Zigzags:
    • Sunburst motifs and zigzag patterns are frequently used in Art Deco design, adding a sense of dynamism and energy to the architecture.
13. Vertical Emphasis:
    • Art Deco buildings often emphasize vertical lines, creating a sense of upward motion. This verticality is achieved through features like tower-like structures, pilasters, and vertical ornamentation.

Art Deco architecture is known for its eclectic combination of influences, marrying traditional craftsmanship with modern materials and bold design elements. The style remains influential and is appreciated for its elegance and distinctive visual language.