Features of the style
Most people have different understandings of Art Nouveau, believing that if the interior style is not classic, then by default it becomes “modern”, that is, contemporary. But the catch is that this trend originated in the 19th century, and the popular trends at that time were significantly different from today’s. To avoid confusion, we will consider the traditional concept of Art Nouveau and try to figure out what is typical for it today:
- The interior is characterized by smooth lines, curves and asymmetry.
- Nature had a huge influence on the followers of Art Nouveau: the design includes floral themes, plant patterns and animal ornaments.
- The use of natural materials is a priority – this applies to both decoration and furniture with textiles.
- This style can be called architectural – arches, vaults and high windows will fit perfectly into such an interior.
- Despite all its decorativeness, Art Nouveau, having undergone some changes, remains functional.
Color scheme
Art Nouveau in the bedroom interior is distinguished by a neutral, calm palette. Brown, peach, and cream tones are used. White and gray are also possible. Soft, discreet shades visually expand the space and help convey the flexibility of lines.
The bedroom should be decorated in tones that are calming and induce sleep. Bright shades are rarely used here: only as barely noticeable touches.
The photo shows a bedroom in warm beige tones in the Art Nouveau style, decorated with original pieces of furniture.
The colors used should be in harmony with each other, not contradicting or standing out from the overall color scheme of the bedroom. Shades of black, which give the modern style magical notes, ash-blue and muted green tones are appropriate. They should flow smoothly into each other, only occasionally creating contrasts. A small room should be decorated in cream and wood tones.
Materials and finishing
In Art Nouveau, there are practically no textured surfaces: it is impossible to find rough brick or concrete here. The walls are evenly painted in calm tones, serving as a neutral background for furniture and decor. It is not necessary to choose a single color: they can be combined, highlighting one or another area. Sometimes the walls are covered with wooden panels of light natural shades.
An unobtrusive floral pattern is also acceptable, so sometimes wallpaper with a pattern is used to decorate a bedroom in the Art Nouveau style. But plastic, an abundance of metal and ceramics should be avoided. The same goes for ceilings – they should serve as a decoration for the bedroom, so stucco moldings are actively used in Art Nouveau, as well as two-tier streamlined structures.
The photo shows a spacious bedroom in Art Nouveau style with modern wall and ceiling decoration.
The bedroom floor should not become an accent of the interior, therefore, high-quality laminate with wood or parquet imitation is used as a floor covering. The shade of the floor should harmoniously fit into the decor, so it is chosen several tones darker than the walls, or, on the contrary, merges with them.
Linoleum, as an unnatural material, is difficult to fit into the decor of a traditional bedroom.
Selection of furniture
Remembering that the decorativeness in the Art Nouveau style is closely intertwined with functionality, it is worth choosing furniture of a fancy shape with figured elements, not devoid of comfort. It is better if the bed and the rest of the furniture are made of the same type of wood, especially if the headboard is carved or figured. However, this recommendation can be omitted if the bed is chosen with a soft headboard. Low bedside tables are usually located on both sides of the bed.
The space of the room is not cluttered with furniture, therefore, following the principles of Art Nouveau, even a small bedroom looks more spacious. The design, striving for smooth lines, visually unites all the elements, putting them together in a harmonious composition.
The photo shows bedroom furniture with rounded shapes and carved patterns, forming a single compositional concept.
In the Art Nouveau style, not only natural wood is valued, but also glass: it can be a bedside table, cabinet fronts, mirrors. An interesting solution is stained glass inserts on windows and doors. Metal is not used as actively, but is present as additional elements.
As a rule, a bulky cabinet is chosen and placed in the far corner of the room. Its facades can be decorated with plant ornaments.
Lighting
The choice of material for lighting fixtures in the Art Nouveau style is not so important – their decorative and utilitarian functions come first. The shape of the lamps should work to support the style of the bedroom. Products made of porcelain, metal, glass or wood are suitable.
In addition to practical spotlights, elegant ornate chandeliers and wall sconces with soft, diffused light are used in the bedroom. Table lamps with lampshades and floor lamps are appropriate.
The photo shows a small, laconic bedroom. Art Nouveau elements can be seen in the design of the chandelier, mirror and textiles.
Textiles and decor
Art Nouveau bedroom design does not include a lot of textiles. Curtains, bedspreads and pillows are chosen only practical, made of natural dense fabrics.
The shades of the curtains and carpet decorating the floor do not differ much from the surrounding environment and are not an accent. Laconic and smooth patterns are welcome in the design of textiles.
The photo shows a bedroom with elements of Art Nouveau: curved furniture, unusual details, plant ornaments.
Accessories for a bedroom in the Art Nouveau style are selected as carefully as the rest of the surroundings. Elegant glass or gold-plated vases, paintings depicting girls or nature, rounded and carved mirror frames are popular.
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