Art Deco bedroom ideas for a luxe retro vibe

Credit: @kerv_interiors

Calling all vintage lovers! Art Deco bedroom design is back. But did it ever truly disappear? 

If you ask us, Art Deco design will always be in style. From its signature geometric prints and stylised curved shapes to its iconic metallic accents, this classic aesthetic brings a timeless glamour to any space.  

Whilst Art Deco first popped up in the 1910s, it was at its peak in the ‘20s and ‘30s, which is why you may associate it with the roaring twenties – a time when jazz music, excess, and over-indulgence weren’t just a way of life; it danced across our homes.  

In this style guide, we’ll visit the world of Jazz Age elegance and teach you how to layer key Art Deco design elements to achieve a cohesive look that stands the test of time. From investing in statement furniture and clever lighting tricks to modern finishing touches that complement the era’s charm, we’ll help you create a beautiful, bold bedroom that’s fit for even Gatsby himself.  

After all, a little party never killed nobody… right, old sport?

Art Deco design is all about combining glamour, quality craftsmanship, and historical inspiration from the roaring twenties. The result is a considered yet extremely opulent space, which gives the design style its enduring appeal.  

This is why so many designers and interior lovers return to it time and time again – for its ability to feel both nostalgic and brand-new, dramatic yet refined. Whether it’s through a statement wallpaper or a mirrored bedside table, Art Deco elements bring instant Old Hollywood elegance that we adore.

Applying Art Deco to your bedroom design is easy. All you have to do is think about the key characteristics of the design style. Rich colour palettes, like jewel tones and metallics, luxurious materials and textures, and classic decorative motifs are all important factors.  

It’s about being deliberate with your design choices – not just adding a touch here or there but curating a sleep space that really captures the heart of the Art Deco movement.

Keen to channel the spirit of this glamorous 1920s style in your bedroom? Here are our favourite Art Deco bedroom design tips, to help bring the aesthetic to life through furniture, patterns, colour, lighting, and materials…

1. Pick a statement bed that steals the show

First up, let’s focus on your bed. The centrepiece for every bedroom, your bed is a great place to start adding some Art Deco drama. Whether that’s through a tall statement headboard with brass details or one with rich velvet upholstery and stylish curves, there are so many ways to incorporate some Art Deco elements into your bed.  

Our sleek Estella Velvet-Finish Bed Frame is a superb choice for embodying the Art Deco spirit, thanks to its jewel-toned velvet upholstery and classic ribbed design – a nod to the aesthetic’s love of clean lines, curved edges, and statement textures. Plus, it’s raised on shiny gold accent legs. Now that’s a showstopper bed!  

2. Play with symmetry for instant elegance

Symmetry is often seen in Art Deco design. To bring this into your bedroom, try balancing your bed with matching bedside tables and decor on either side. Remember, whatever you do to one side, make sure to match the look on the other. That means twinning your lamps, tissue boxes, photo frames – even the same number of books, if you’re getting really picky!  

Alternatively, for a quick route to permanent symmetry, consider investing in a hotel bed that has built-in bedside tables and lamps! Ideal for perfectionists, now your mojo will never be thrown… 

3. Curate a rich colour palette

Art Deco colours are easy to identify. Leaning more to the darker end of the colour spectrum, think deep jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, and ruby red, paired with shiny metallics, and dark browns or blacks. You may also see more earthy tones, rather than anything too highly saturated. Think olive greens and mustard, over primary shades. 

This is a style that doesn’t shy away from high contrast looks or even tone-on-tone designs, layering multiple dark shades in one room. Be brave and go bold!  

Feeling inspired? Check out our guide to the best retro colour palettes that are having a comeback.  

4. Incorporate luxurious materials

It wouldn’t be an Art Deco design guide without mentioning luxurious materials. In this case, the more, the better! Think plush velvets and fluffy faux furs that you can sink into, contrasted with glossy finishes such as burled wood, marble, and polished metals like brass, chrome and silver, that bring a shine to your bedroom. These textures bring a tonne of visual interest and are synonymous with the opulent Gatsby-esque style.

Highlight Art Deco features with lighting and atmosphere

5. Invest in iconic lamps and sculptural fixtures

Lighting plays a starring role in Art Deco design. Not only do lights illuminate your space, but they can be a beautiful accessory. Take these wall sconces, for example; their elegant fan shapes are a classic Art Deco motif and look super sophisticated on your bedroom walls. You could also opt for an elegant crystal chandelier or a table lamp with chrome accents, to dial up the Deco decadence.

6. Layer ambient lighting for maximum glamour

Next, it’s time to set the ambience. Art Deco design naturally lends itself to being moody and dramatic, so try turning the lights down to a romantic soft glow. Play around with small table lamps, sculptural wall lights, and candles to create a glamorous low-lit atmosphere.  

Incorporate signature patterns, mirrors, and wall décor

7. Introduce geometric motifs

If there was one pattern that sums up this design style, it’s geometric shapes. This motif brings instant elegance and retro charm, perfect for a bold bedroom. The easiest way to do this with maximum effect is through a geometric print wallpaper. Pick a print with a dark base, like navy blue or forest green, and gold accents. You could even try mixing and matching different geo-prints for a layered, eclectic look.

8. Layer mirrors to bounce light and drama

Credit: @the_cubbyhome

Mirrors are wonderful for bouncing light around your space, bringing brightness and dazzling depth to even the smallest of bedrooms. And why stop at just mirrors? Consider investing in furniture that have reflective surfaces, such as a chrome bedside table or a mirrored dresser. These pieces are sure to amplify the Art Deco era’s love of shine and symmetry.

9. Curate art and stylised prints

Now, to add some personal touches. Art is a fantastic way to bring some personality to your bedroom design, and there are tonnes of Art Deco-inspired artwork to choose from. Look for prints featuring classic fan motifs, geometric shapes, and sunburst designs. Alternatively, you could opt for vintage travel posters, portraits of 1920s flapper girls, or city skylines, to echo the glamour of the design style.  

Don’t forget about the finishing touches to elevate your space

10. Layer pillows, throws, and bedding

Now, for the finishing touches. Since Art Deco is all about indulgence, layering textures for maximum cosiness and comfort is an excellent idea. Start with soft-touch silky bed sheets and layer with fluffy velvet blankets and plump, embroidered throw cushions. To keep things coordinated, limit your colour palette to a few key shades and create a cohesive look.

11. Accessorise with retro flair

To complete the Art Deco look, add accessories that mirror the era’s glamour. Think ornate picture frames, sculptured vases, vintage clocks, and mirrored perfume trays that have a retro feel. The key is to focus on decor that feels deliberate yet authentic to the space.

12. Combine vintage inspiration with modern elements

Finally, it’s important to keep modern elements in mind, to keep your space feeling fresh. By balancing the old with the new, you can honour the past whilst embracing the present. Try contrasting your vintage wallpaper with contemporary lights or offsetting your sleek chest of drawers with some Art-Deco style accessories.

To curate the ultimate Art Deco-inspired bedroom, use rich jewel tones, layer luxurious textures, and weave in those classic geometric motifs that are so synonymous with this retro style. By combining vintage 1920s glamour with modern comforts, you can easily create an Art Deco-inspired bedroom that celebrates the very best of the era, whilst futureproofing your sleep space for years to come.