Art nouveau style embraces bold colors, modern materials and simple lines.
Art nouveau home interiors started during the late 1890s, but were most widely used between the 1920s and the 1940s. It encompasses clean, sharp lines with a combination of neutral and bold colors. The overall look is one that is slightly more lavish than in previous years, and took cues from jewelry and fashion design and included bits and pieces of exotic cultures. Lush materials, bold colors and cut glass were all included in wall decor and just about everywhere else.
Paint Color
Paint was among the most widely used wall coverings during these decades. The colors used during this time varied greatly, but were primarily kept within the neutral family. This includes shades of white, cream and beige and provides a soothing backdrop for bolder, more colorful accents. Neutral hues create a soothing feel for a space, ideal for most living and sleeping areas, and will work when combined with colors from any other family. These hues were then accented with brighter reds, yellows, greens and blues to add a modern, art nouveau touch. A modern twist is to combine these colors on the wall by painting three walls in a neutral shade and one accent wall in something bolder.
Wallpaper
Wallpaper was perhaps more widely used during the art nouveau era than any other wall treatment on the market. It was seldom a solid color, and was instead usually printed with a bold background and some kind of pattern. Abstract florals, boomerangs and home appliances were the most widely used during the time period, and though fairly rare now, authentic or reproduction pieces are available from some online sites. An alternative to actual wallpaper is to use paint and stencils to create the same effect without the worry of damage or tearing wallpaper. An additional bonus is the ease of covering paint versus removing wallpaper when it comes time to change styles.
Stained Glass
Stained glass was another design element frequently associated with art nouveau design. This is the time period when Tiffany lamps and similar pieces became available, and as such, the look was incorporated into wall hangings, windows and other decorative pieces. The designs were usually geometric patterns or abstract botanicals. The colors incorporated lots of deep jewel tones, which were consistent with the style. When framed, stained glass pieces were surrounded with polished wood, as natural finishes were also a hallmark of art nouveau.
Wall Decor
Light fixtures of the time were primarily wall hanging, meaning they were also selected for both functional and aesthetic appeal. Not all homes during those decades were equipped with electricity, those that were invested in lighting fixtures that were sleek and streamlined and made from a combination of glass and chrome. Clocks and other large wall decor also used chrome and glass, while smaller accent pieces were finished with bright colors.
