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Geometric Shapes


Art Deco inspired hotel lobby


Bold well defined geometric shapes are such a key feature of the Art Deco style that I've split some of the more popular shapes off into their own articles, Hexagons, Octagons and Trapezoids to be precise.


The geometric shapes that are so common to Art Deco design can be traced back to the influence of Cubism.


The Glass ceiling and polished floor of the hotel lobby pictured above employ various geometric shapes to produce a strong modern Art Deco theme.


This item of furniture makes use of inlaid brass strips to produce strong geometric shapes, that in turn give this piece a distinct Art Deco style.




Hexagons and Octagons

You'll frequently find Hexagons and Octagons popping up in Art Deco designs thanks to their obvious geometric form. The large hexagon mirror in the photo above creates a very prominent focal point for this London bar's decor. Incidentally, the design of the bar, and the rest of the hotel for that matter, is based on the style of a 1920's transatlantic liner.


As well as mirrors you'll also find Hexagons and Octagons appearing in all sorts of fixtures and fittings, for example wallpapers, rugs, lights, tiles and so on.

Trapezoids


Another classic geometric shape associated with Art Deco design, the trapezoid has a symmetry that can be used to great affect on all sorts of items.


For example, the mirror opposite makes great use of multiple trapezoid mirror glass panels to produce a bold ornamental statement of reflective surfaces that can deliver additional light to any area of your choosing.

Chevrons & Zigzags


Another key geometric shape found in Art Deco styling, the chevron or zigzag has the iconic sharp form you'd associate with the style.


You'll find examples in all sorts of modern furniture items, with rugs and fabrics being particularly well suited to the form.


General Electric Building


With a natural chevron or zig-zag as its shape, lighting bolts can be found adorning many building of the era both inside and out.


Celebrating the rapid progress of technology, you can find plenty of lighting bolts adorning the crown of the General Electric Building in New York.

So far, I haven't had any luck finding this design feature on modern fixtures and fittings. I'll keep looking and will add to this post when I've found something.

 

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