Week 9

Art Deco and Industrial Design

Art Deco and Industrial Design were two greatly important styles that changed how things looked and worked in the early 1900s. Art Deco started in France in the 1920s and was known for its bold, decorative style with geometric shapes, fancy materials like polished metals and rare woods, and influences from Cubism and African art. It was all about glamour and style, seen in furniture, buildings, and even ocean liners like the Normandie. Famous designers like Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann, Eileen Gray, and Donald Deskey created sleek and modern interiors using mirrors, strong lighting, and stylish furniture. 

In contrast, Industrial Design focused more on function, mass production, and making things affordable for the public. It became popular during the Great Depression and was influenced by new technology and aerodynamics. Designers like Raymond Loewy, Gilbert Rohde, and Russel Wright created products such as trains, furniture, and household appliances that were modern, efficient, and easy to use.

Even though Art Deco and Industrial Design had distinct goals, they helped shape the modern world. Industrial Design often used some of the smooth, sleek look of Art Deco but made it more practical for everyday use. Both styles applied new materials and technologies, influencing everything from tall buildings and stylish furniture to lighting and radios. Schools like the Carnegie Institute encouraged designers, architects, and artists to work together which led to a blend of beauty and function.


Past Applications:


Current Applications:



One Step Further:
Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann (1879–1933) was a French furniture and interior designer known for his luxurious Art Deco creations. He used rich materials like ebony, ivory, and exotic woods to craft elegant, high-end furniture with sleek, geometric designs. His work, often seen in elite homes and exhibitions, helped define the glamorous and sophisticated look of Art Deco. Ruhlmann believed that true luxury combined fine craftsmanship with modern style, making his designs timeless and highly sought after.



Comments

  1. Professor VanderNoordaaMarch 24, 2025 at 9:18 AM

    Ruth,
    Great summary of the Art Deco and Industrial periods. I loved your images showcasing past and current applications. Your deeper dive into Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann was great- I wish you would have included images of his work. 50/50 points

    ReplyDelete

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