A French Decorative Arts Bedroom Makeover in our KY Home

The captivating Art Deco design movement that defined the Roaring Twenties continues to inspire designers and artists. In this blog, I share how I created an Art Deco Interior Design in our Guest Bedroom, capturing key characteristics with a modern twist!

Whenever I think of Art Deco, I think of timelessness. In a similar fashion, I think of tall, impactful buildings, such as the showcasing of the Chrysler in NYC and the Hoover in London. Without a doubt, the buildings are iconic. The architecture combines steel framework with ornamental facades, portraying functionality and beauty.

My vision for the guest bedroom remodel is bold and vibrant. I want dark walls, metallic gold touches, geometric shapes, and fabulous decor.

Cue the lyrics, “You’re so Art Deco, out on the floor. Shining like gunmetal, cold and unsure.” -Lana Del Rey.

I hope this blog will inspire you to create a retreat oasis using dark hues, savoir-faire decor, and bold statement pieces.

Now that I have introduced this project, let’s talk renovation.

*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. The affiliate links are ways to support my small business.

Phase One: Bold Dark Colors

Firstly, I want the guest bedroom to say “fais comme chez toi” (to make yourself at home, in French). Guests should feel comfortable and welcomed with ease. A darker wall brings a natural sense of relaxation. You can feel at ease after a long day of work or socializing in public. As a result, it took three indecisive trips to Lowe’s to finally set the tone (literally and figuratively) with a bold paint color.

PAINT COLOR: Peacock House, Eggshell, Base C

Dark green with a cool undertone.

Dark Hues

Before

After

How to Repaint a Wall

1. Prepare your space
   • Remove furniture
   • Clean the dirt and dust off walls
   • Sand walls
   • Repair holes with putty
   • Cover the floor with painter’s plastic
2. Apply Primer
   • All-Purpose Primer from Lowes
3. Apply Painter’s Tape
4. PAINT!
   • Apply 2 coats for optimal color
   • Paint the borders first around the trim, ceiling, windows, closet, etc

Phase Two: Interior Design

Secondly, I visualize industrial metals, rich wood furniture, and bold artwork. When creating a new design, I look to others for inspiration.

Check out this page from the December 2024 Architectural Digest. The photo below highlights a bedroom designed by the talented architect Hugo Toro. This style is undoubtedly iconic for the Art Deco lover.

Savoir Faire Makeover

The design of a bedroom should be purposeful. I chose the phrase “savoir-faire” because I am redesigning the room appropriately with the right intentions. The conversation between the guest and the bedroom is both peaceful and tranquil.

Before the renovation, the room felt claustrophobic and cluttered. We rearranged the furniture to allow it to breathe. I moved the bed against the wall beneath a window. I’m selling two dressers and shopping to replace them with something made of rich wood (such as mahogany or similar high-quality).

Art Deco design favored luxury. With this purpose in mind, I suggest finding pieces that exemplify high-end material with a smaller price tag. In due time, you will collect high-quality furniture.

5 Characteristics of Art Deco Interior Design

*Disclosure: I recommend products I would use myself. This blog contains affiliate links at no additional cost to you.