Imagine stepping into a bathroom or kitchen that transports you to the glamour and elegance of the 1920s and 1930s. This is Art Deco, a design style characterized by bold geometric patterns, lavish materials, and a sense of rich indulgence that never goes out of fashion. Whether you're renovating an entire room or simply updating a few key fixtures, incorporating Art Deco elements can transform an ordinary space into a stunning showcase.

Art Deco isn't just about looking beautiful—it's about creating a space that feels luxurious and timeless. From the gleaming finishes of a brass faucet to the intricate details of a geometric tile pattern, every element contributes to bringing this iconic style to life. And the best part? You don't need to overhaul your whole bathroom or kitchen to achieve the look. Sometimes, a few well-chosen pieces can make all the difference.

In this article, we'll get into how you can infuse Art Deco design into your bathroom and kitchen, focusing on various faucets and fixtures that serve as the perfect starting point. From the kitchen faucet that sets the tone for the rest of your home to the shower system that displays function and flair, we'll explore a range of options that will inspire your next design project. So, whether you're a long-time fan of this style or just starting to discover its beauty, join us as we explore the necessities for creating an Art Deco washroom.

Art Deco Kitchen Design

Art Deco kitchen faucets typically incorporate geometric shapes like sharp angles, stepped forms, and symmetrical patterns. These elements create a bold and striking look that immediately catches the eye. Unlike the sleek, minimalist designs popular in modern kitchens, Art Deco faucets embrace complexity and detail.

As for materials, chrome is a classic choice, reflecting the shiny, metallic look that was prevalent during the Art Deco era. Brass and polished nickel are even more popular, providing a warm, vintage appeal that complements the geometric designs.

Art Deco Inspired Faucets

Kitchen Sink Faucets

The kitchen faucet is often considered the centerpiece of a kitchen, and in a time-period space, it acts as the room’s jewelry. Art Deco style is all about making a statement, and the kitchen faucet is a prime opportunity to showcase this.

Bar Prep Faucets

The bar prep faucet may be smaller in size when compared to the main kitchen faucet, but is a great addition to infuse more Art Deco inspiration. Whether it's installed in a dedicated bar area, an island, or a secondary sink, an Art Deco bar prep faucet reminds us of the value placed on entertainment and hosting in the 1920s and 1930s.

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Bathroom Sink Faucets

The bathroom faucet is a central element in the bathroom, and when it comes to Art Deco, it’s an opportunity to make a bold, stylish statement. 

The hallmark of Art Deco design is its use of geometric shapes and patterns. Look for bathroom faucets with angular lines, stepped edges, and symmetrical designs. While the overall shape of Art Deco faucets tends to be clean and bold, they often incorporate intricate details. This might include fluted spouts, engraved patterns, or decorative handles. These small touches add to the faucet’s visual appeal and emphasize the richness of the Art Deco style.

Shower Faucets

3. Villabosch Hand Shower Kit in Polished Brass - KX1542SD 

Art Deco shower faucets combine high-end design with user-friendly features, extinguishable by bold lines, elegant shapes, and rich finishes. Many Art Deco shower faucets take inspiration from the glamorous 1920s and 1930s, incorporating vintage elements such as cross handles and ornate detailing.

Popular finishes include polished chrome, brass, and nickel. Dual-handle designs provide precise control over water temperature and flow. Look for models with cross handles or lever handles that feature extra detailing, adding a vintage feel to your bathroom, or go for a polished look with no extra detailing on the faucet.

Tub Faucets

Freestanding tub faucets are ideal for standalone bathtubs and can be a focal point in the room. Freestanding tub faucets often feature tall, elegant spouts, and can be installed directly on the floor or mounted on a freestanding base.

Wall-mounted tub faucets are also a great choice for incorporating a unique feature into the bathroom. While being mounted on the wall, this kind of installation method for a faucet becomes a focal point.

Best Color Finishes for Art Deco Fixtures

In the 1920s, interior design embraced vibrant and bold color palettes, reflecting the exuberance and optimism of the post-World War I era. Interiors at the time featured rich jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red, often combined with sleek black, gold, and silver accents. These colors symbolized luxury, modernity, and sophistication, mirroring the lavish style seen in the fashion of flapper dresses adorned with beads and sequins. The popularity of these colors was also influenced by advancements in synthetic dyes, which allowed for more vibrant and varied hues. The use of these palettes in interior design created a sense of glamour and excitement, paralleling the cultural shifts towards more liberated and expressive lifestyles.

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Polished Chrome

Polished chrome is one of the most popular finishes for Art Deco fixtures due to its sleek, shiny appearance that reflects light beautifully. It provides a modern twist on the vintage style, giving fixtures a bright, clean look. Chrome is versatile and pairs well with almost any color scheme, making it an excellent choice for both faucets and accessories.

Pros of Polished Chrome:

- Reflective, mirror-like finish adds brightness

- Versatile and matches various color schemes

- Easy to clean and maintain

Cons of Polished Chrome:

- Can show water spots and fingerprints easily

- Requires regular cleaning to maintain its shine

Polished & Brushed Brass

Brass has a warm, golden hue that permeates luxury. This finish is perfect for creating an authentic Art Deco look, as it was widely used during the 1920s and 1930s. Brass fixtures add a touch of warmth and richness to any powder room.

Pros of Brass:

- Warm, inviting appearance

- Adds a touch of vintage elegance

- Durable and long-lasting

Cons of Brass:

- Can tarnish over time if not finished with PVD and if not properly maintained (some desire this natural patina)

- Requires regular polishing to keep its shine

Polished Nickel

Polished nickel strikes a balance between the sleekness of chrome and the warmth of brass. Its soft, silvery tone provides a clean feel with a hint of gold-toned visual interest. Polished nickel has a slightly warmer and more subdued shine compared to chrome, which can add depth and elegance to the space.

Pros of Polished Nickel:

- Warm, soft shine that is less stark than chrome

- Versatile and works well with various color palettes

- Durable and resistant to corrosion

Cons of Polished Nickel:

- Can be more expensive than other finishes

- Requires regular cleaning to maintain its luster

Bringing Art Deco elements into your bathroom can really make a world of difference, turning an ordinary space into a luxurious retreat. Imagine the bold geometric patterns, the lavish materials, and the overall sense of rich indulgence. It’s not just about making your bathroom look beautiful, but also about creating a space that feels timeless and special.

The great thing about Art Deco is that you don’t have to completely overhaul your bathroom to achieve the look. Sometimes, just a few well-chosen fixtures can make all the difference. Whether it’s your choice of faucet or a stunning geometric tile pattern, each element adds to the effect!