A Century of Style: Exploring Furniture Through the Decades

This listicle explores furniture styles by decade, from Victorian elegance to Modern Organic, highlighting key characteristics of each era. Understanding these design shifts helps homeowners, interior designers, and collectors make informed choices. Discover how to integrate iconic furniture styles into your space, whether you’re drawn to Art Deco, Mid Century Modern, or minimalist designs. Learn about furniture styles by decade to create interiors reflecting your taste and design appreciation.

1. Art Deco (1920s – 1930s)

Art Deco furniture, a prominent style throughout the 1920s and 1930s, is a testament to the era’s unique blend of luxury, glamour, and faith in technological progress. Emerging in the aftermath of World War I, it flourished during the prosperous Roaring Twenties and continued to influence design even into the Great Depression. Art Deco represents a fascinating fusion of modernist styles with traditional craftsmanship, utilizing rich materials and bold geometric patterns. These elements, along with vibrant colors, reflect the dynamism of the machine age and the impact of artistic movements like Cubism and Futurism, securing Art Deco’s place as a major player among furniture styles by decade.

The infographic above illustrates the timeline of Art Deco’s rise and evolution, highlighting key milestones like the 1925 International Exposition of Decorative and Industrial Arts in Paris, cemented the style’s global recognition. It also visually connects Art Deco with concurrent architectural marvels, like the completion of the Chrysler Building in 1930, demonstrating the style’s pervasive influence.

Characterized by sleek, streamlined forms with curved edges, Art Deco furniture often incorporates exotic materials like ebony, zebrawood, and sharkskin. High-gloss finishes and lacquered surfaces are standard, complemented by chrome, glass, and mirrored accents. Using contrasting colors and striking visual patterns further contributes to the style’s distinctive aesthetic.

Features of Art Deco Furniture:

• Bold geometric patterns and symmetrical designs
• Sleek, streamlined forms with curved edges
• Exotic materials like ebony, zebrawood, and sharkskin
• High-gloss finishes and lacquered surfaces
• Chrome, glass, and mirrored accents
• Contrasting colors and striking visual patterns

Pros:

• Timeless aesthetic that continues to influence modern design
• Striking visual impact and statement pieces
• Often well-crafted with high-quality materials
• Versatile ability to blend with other décor styles

Cons:

• Original pieces can be prohibitively expensive
• Bold patterns may overwhelm smaller spaces
• Authentic materials can require special maintenance
• Reproduction pieces often lack the quality of originals

Examples of Art Deco Furniture in Practice:

• The Chrysler Building’s interior furnishings in New York
• The furniture in the film ‘The Great Gatsby’ (2013)
• Miami’s South Beach Art Deco Historic District interiors

Tips for Incorporating Art Deco into Your Home:

• Incorporate Art Deco pieces as statement furniture rather than filling an entire room.
• Pair with neutral backgrounds to let the pieces stand out.
• Look for authentic details like stepped designs and sunburst patterns.
• Mix metallic finishes like chrome, brass, and gold for authentic Deco appeal.

Key Figures in Art Deco Furniture:

• Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, known as the ‘Art Deco Pope’
• René Lalique, famous for glass furniture and decorative items
• Donald Deskey, designer of Radio City Music Hall interiors
• Paul Follot, a renowned French furniture designer

Claridge’s hotel in London, with its 1929 renovation, also played a crucial role in popularizing the Art Deco style. Whether you are a homeowner, an interior designer, or appreciate the allure of vintage furniture, understanding the nuances of Art Deco offers a valuable perspective on the evolution of furniture styles by decade. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to seamlessly blend opulence and modernity, making it a desirable choice even in contemporary interiors.

2. Mid Century Modern (1940s – 1960s)

Mid Century Modern furniture, a defining style of the mid 20th century, represents a significant shift in furniture design and remains highly influential in “furniture styles by decade”. Emerging post-World War II, it addressed urban living needs and reflected the era’s optimism. The style prioritized functionality, clean lines, and a connection with nature, bringing high-design principles into the average American home. This meant embracing honest materials, organic shapes, and a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This approach has profoundly impacted contemporary furniture design, continuing to inspire and inform current trends.

Mid Century Modern is characterized by clean, organic forms with minimal ornamentation. The style often combines materials like wood, metal, glass, and vinyl, creating a contrast between traditional and non-traditional elements. Functionality and ergonomics are key, with designs emphasizing comfort and practicality. Tapered or hairpin legs are common, adding to the style’s distinct visual appeal. The emphasis on indoor-outdoor living is often reflected in architectural choices like large windows, blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces.

This style deserves its place on the “furniture styles by decade” list due to its enduring appeal and significant impact on subsequent design movements. Its timeless aesthetic makes it highly sought-after by collectors and homeowners alike.

Pros:

• Timeless appeal: Mid Century Modern pieces remain stylish and relevant decades later.
• Practical and functional: Designs prioritize livability and ease of use.
• Wide availability: Both vintage and reproduction pieces are readily available.
• Versatility: Mid Century Modern complements a wide range of other design aesthetics.

Cons:

• Cost: Authentic vintage pieces can be expensive and may require restoration.
• Replicas: The market is saturated with low-quality reproductions.
• Comfort: Some pieces prioritize form over comfort.
• Clichéd Appearance: Overuse can lead to a clichéd look if not carefully balanced with other design elements.

Examples of iconic Mid Century Modern furniture include the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman (1956), the Noguchi Coffee Table (1948), and the Saarinen Tulip Table and Chairs (1956). The interiors featured in the television show Mad Men offer a fantastic visual representation of the style in a residential setting.

Tips for Incorporating Mid Century Modern:

• Mix and Match: Combine authentic vintage finds with high-quality reproductions for a budget-friendly approach.
• Natural Elements: Incorporate plants and natural materials to enhance the indoor-outdoor connection.
• Textiles: Pair with complementary textiles featuring geometric or abstract patterns.
• Quality Control: When purchasing vintage, consider solid construction and quality materials.

Pioneering designers like Charles and Ray Eames and manufacturers such as Herman Miller and Knoll played a crucial role in popularizing the style. Other notable figures include George Nelson, designer of the Marshmallow Sofa and Ball Clock, Eero Saarinen, known for his fluid forms, and Isamu Noguchi, who seamlessly blended art and functional design.

Learn more about Mid Century Modern (1940s-1960s)

3. Victorian (1850s – 1900s)

Key Features of Victorian Furniture:

• Ornate Carvings and Decorative Details: Victorian furniture is hallmarked by intricate carvings, embellishments, and decorative motifs. These details, often inspired by Gothic, Rococo, and Renaissance styles, showcase the era’s skilled craftsmanship.
• Heavy, Substantial Pieces: Victorian furniture is known for its imposing proportions and solid construction. It typically uses dark wood finishes like mahogany and walnut. These substantial pieces exude a sense of grandeur and permanence.
• Button-tufted Upholstery and Rich Fabrics: Plush velvets, damasks, and other rich fabrics were commonly used in Victorian upholstery, often featuring button-tufting for added texture and elegance.
• Curved Shapes and Cabriole Legs: Victorian furniture’s graceful curves and cabriole legs add a touch of femininity and sophistication to the overall design.
• Combination of Multiple Revival Styles: The Victorian era saw a resurgence of interest in historical styles, leading to a unique blend of Gothic, Rococo, and Renaissance influences in furniture design.

Pros of Victorian Furniture:

• Exceptional Craftsmanship and Durability: Victorian furniture was often made with solid wood construction and meticulous attention to detail, resulting in pieces built to last for generations.
• Distinctive Character and Historical Significance: Owning Victorian furniture is like owning a piece of history. These pieces add a unique character and a sense of story to any space.
• Statement Pieces that Create Dramatic Interiors: Victorian furniture can serve as striking focal points, transforming a room with its dramatic presence and ornate beauty.

Cons of Victorian Furniture:

• Heavy, Bulky Pieces that Require Substantial Space: Victorian furniture’s large scale can be overwhelming in smaller rooms or apartments.
• Dark Colors Can Make Spaces Feel Smaller and Heavier: The dark wood finishes typical of Victorian furniture can absorb light, making spaces feel smaller and less airy.
• High Maintenance Requirements for Wood and Upholstery: Maintaining the beauty of Victorian furniture requires regular cleaning and care for both the wood and upholstery.
• Can Appear Outdated or Overly Formal in Contemporary Settings: Victorian furniture’s ornate style can clash with more modern or minimalist interiors.

Examples of Victorian Furniture:

• Fainting couches and chaise lounges
• Ornate four-poster beds with canopies
• Balloon-back dining chairs
• Eastlake furniture with geometric patterns and shallow carvings

Tips for Incorporating Victorian Furniture:

• Balance heavy Victorian pieces with lighter colors and modern elements. This will prevent the room from feeling overly dark.
• Focus on a few statement pieces rather than full Victorian rooms. A carefully chosen Victorian piece can add character without overwhelming the space.
• Update upholstery with contemporary fabrics while preserving frames. This can give a Victorian piece a fresh, modern look while retaining its historical charm.
• Use Victorian furniture in rooms with high ceilings and ample space. This allows the furniture to breathe and prevents the room from feeling cramped.

Influential Figures and Events:

• Charles Eastlake: A prominent designer who advocated for simpler, more functional Victorian forms.
• Thomas Chippendale: His earlier Rococo designs influenced some aspects of Victorian style.
• John Henry Belter: Known for his innovative use of laminated and carved rosewood.
• The Great Exhibition of 1851 in London showcased the latest Victorian design and manufacturing, popularizing the style.
• Department stores like Harrods and Liberty made Victorian furniture accessible to a wider middle class audience.

4. Postmodern (1970s – 1980s)

Postmodern furniture, a defining style of the 1970s and 1980s, stands as a vibrant reaction against the austerity of modernism. This era in furniture styles by decade is characterized by its playful embrace of bold colors, unconventional shapes, and a rejection of purely functional design. Instead, postmodernism prioritized self-expression, historical references used ironically, and an emotional response to design. This movement challenged the established “less is more” philosophy, opting for a “more is more” approach that celebrated decorative elements and often impractical, whimsical forms. Postmodern furniture is not just about utility; it’s about making a statement.

The key features of postmodern furniture include bold, asymmetrical forms, vibrant and often clashing colors and patterns, mixing high and low materials, and playful, sometimes impractical designs. Laminate and bright-colored plastic surfaces were frequently used, adding to the distinctive aesthetic. Think geometric shapes, squiggly lines, and a sense of controlled chaos.

This style deserves its place in the list of furniture styles by decade because it represents a pivotal shift in design thinking. It showcases a departure from strict functionalism and embraces individuality and artistic expression in everyday objects.

Pros:

• Creates visually striking, conversation-starting interiors: Postmodern pieces are guaranteed to be noticed and spark discussion.
• Expressive and individualistic approach to design: It allows for a high degree of personalization and reflects a unique aesthetic.
• Pieces often function as furniture and art: Many postmodern designs blur the lines between functional objects and artistic sculptures.
• Currently experiencing a strong revival in contemporary design: This renewed interest makes postmodern pieces both stylish and potentially valuable.

Cons:

• It can be visually overwhelming and difficult to integrate: The postmodern design requires careful consideration within a space.
• Sometimes, comfort and functionality are sacrificed for visual impact. The focus on form over function can sometimes lead to less practical pieces.
• Quality varies greatly between designer pieces and mass market items. It is crucial to discern between high-quality originals and less durable reproductions.
• Some designs haven’t aged well aesthetically: The highly stylized nature of some postmodern pieces can make them appear dated.

Examples: Iconic examples include the Memphis Group’s Carlton Bookcase by Ettore Sottsass, Peter Shire’s Bel Air Chair, and Michele De Lucchi’s First Chair. Architect Michael Graves contributed significantly, bringing postmodern design to the mass market through his work with retailers like Target.

Tips for Incorporating Postmodern Furniture:

• Use postmodern pieces as statement items against neutral backgrounds: This allows the furniture to shine without overwhelming the space.
• Mix with contemporary minimalist pieces for balance: Juxtaposing postmodern pieces with simpler designs creates a dynamic and visually interesting contrast.
• Look for quality vintage pieces from recognized designers: These pieces often hold their value and represent the best of postmodern design.
• Incorporate postmodern lighting fixtures for impact with less commitment: Lighting can be a great way to introduce the style without committing to larger furniture pieces.

Popularized By: The Memphis Group, founded by Ettore Sottsass, was instrumental in popularizing postmodern design. Other key figures include Alessandro Mendini, Studio Alchimia, Michael Graves, and Robert Venturi.

5. Scandinavian Modern (1950s – 1960s)

Key Features of Scandinavian Modern Furniture:

• Clean lines and minimal ornamentation: Unnecessary embellishments are avoided, allowing the materials’ beauty and the form’s purity to shine.
• Light-colored woods: Pine, birch, and ash are commonly used, contributing to the bright and airy feel.
• Organic shapes inspired by nature: Gentle curves and flowing lines evoke the natural world.
• Emphasis on quality: Durable construction and attention to detail ensure longevity.
• Functional designs prioritizing practicality: Every piece serves a purpose and is designed for comfortable and efficient use.
• Neutral color palettes with occasional bright accents: Subtle hues create a calming backdrop, while pops of color add personality.

Pros of Choosing Scandinavian Modern:

• Timeless aesthetic that resists trends: Scandinavian Modern pieces remain stylish and relevant regardless of fads.
• Versatile pieces that work in various interior styles: They integrate into contemporary, minimalist, mid century, and even traditional settings.
• Focus on durability and longevity: High-quality materials and construction ensure these pieces can last for generations.
• Human-centered design that prioritizes comfort and usability: Form and function are beautifully intertwined.

Cons to Consider:

• Authentic vintage pieces can be expensive: Original designs by renowned names can command high prices in the collector’s market.
• The market is flooded with low-quality imitations. The popularity of the style has led to a surge in mass produced replicas that often lack the quality and craftsmanship of the originals.
• If not balanced, minimalist styles may feel cold or sterile. Careful layering with textiles, rugs, and other decorative elements can mitigate this.
• A limited color palette can seem restrictive. While the neutral base is versatile, introducing color through accessories and textiles is often key to personalization.

Iconic Examples of Scandinavian Modern Furniture:

• Hans Wegner’s Wishbone Chair (1949)
• Arne Jacobsen’s Egg Chair (1958)
• Alvar Aalto’s Stool 60 (1933)
• Finn Juhl’s Chieftain Chair (1949)

Tips for Incorporating Scandinavian Modern into Your Home:

• Pair Scandinavian furniture with textiles for warmth: Sheepskin throws, wool blankets, and linen cushions add cozy layers.
• Embrace the ‘hygge’ concept by adding soft lighting and natural elements: Create a sense of warmth and wellbeing through candles, ambient lighting, and incorporating plants.
• When purchasing, look for solid construction and quality joinery. Invest in pieces that will last.
• Mix vintage and contemporary Scandinavian pieces for depth: Juxtaposing old and new creates a dynamic and personalized space.

Key Figures Who Popularized Scandinavian Modern:

• Hans Wegner: Danish designer known for his iconic chairs, notably the Wishbone Chair.
• Arne Jacobsen: Architect and designer who created numerous iconic seating designs, including the Egg and Swan Chair.
• Alvar Aalto: Finnish architect and designer who pioneered bentwood techniques and created timeless pieces like Stool 60.
• IKEA: While not a designer, IKEA played a pivotal role in popularizing affordable Scandinavian design globally.
• Marimekko: Finnish textile and clothing design company known for its bold patterns and bright colors, complementing Scandinavian Modern interiors.

Scandinavian Modern’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to create functional and beautiful spaces. Its focus on simplicity, natural materials, and quality craftsmanship makes it a worthwhile consideration for anyone seeking to create a stylish and timeless home. This design movement’s prominence in the 1950s and 1960s cemented its position as a key player in the history of “furniture styles by decade.”

6. American Craftsman/Arts and Crafts (1900s – 1930s)

The American Craftsman style, prominent from the 1900s to the 1930s, represents a significant chapter in the evolution of furniture styles by decade. Emerging as a direct response against the burgeoning industrial revolution and its mass produced goods, it championed handcrafted quality, natural beauty, and functional design. Inspired by the British Arts and Crafts movement, this style found fertile ground in America’s burgeoning middle class, who appreciated its honest construction and democratic ideals. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of handcrafted furniture in a rapidly modern world.

This style emphasizes the inherent beauty of natural materials, primarily quarter-sawn oak, and celebrates the artisan’s skill. Visible joinery, such as exposed tenons and dovetails, becomes a decorative element, highlighting the piece’s structural integrity. Horizontal lines and sturdy proportions convey a sense of strength and stability, while hand-hammered metal hardware and accents add subtle embellishment. Simple, geometric forms with minimal ornamentation complete the aesthetic, emphasizing functionality over superfluous decoration. Examples of iconic Craftsman pieces include Gustav Stickley’s Morris chairs and rectilinear tables, Mission-style oak bookcases with visible tenons, and the custom furniture designed by Charles and Henry Greene for the Gamble House. Roycroft Shops furniture, often featuring distinctive copper accents, also exemplifies the style.

More about the American Craftsman / Arts and Crafts style

The enduring popularity of American Craftsman furniture lies in its numerous benefits. The style’s hallmarks are exceptional durability and longevity due to the quality materials and robust construction techniques employed. Its timeless aesthetic complements various architectural styles, from bungalows to Prairie School homes. Each piece’s handcrafted quality and attention to detail imbue it with a unique character and enduring value. Furthermore, focusing on functional designs ensures these pieces are as practical as beautiful.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. Craftsman furniture’s heavy, substantial nature necessitates adequate space for proper display. Darker wood finishes, while beautiful, can make rooms feel smaller if not balanced with ample natural light. Authentic pieces can be expensive and require ongoing maintenance to preserve their patina. Finally, the stylistic variations within American Craftsman are somewhat limited compared to other periods, which may not appeal to those seeking a more dramatic look.

How to work with American Craftsman Arts Crafts style

To successfully incorporate American Craftsman furniture into your home, consider these tips: Pair pieces with natural materials like stone, pottery, and handwoven textiles to enhance the organic positioning of furniture where the beautiful wood grain and joinery can be fully appreciated. Regularly maintain the wood with oil or wax to preserve its rich patina and protect it from drying out. Finally, balance the heavy furniture with ample space and natural light to avoid a cramped or gloomy atmosphere.

Key figures who popularized the American Craftsman style include Gustav Stickley, furniture maker and publisher of The Craftsman magazine; the Greene brothers, architects who designed bespoke furniture for their iconic homes; Frank Lloyd Wright, whose Prairie School architecture featured complementary furniture; Elbert Hubbard, founder of the Roycroft community of craftspeople; and, of course, William Morris, the British designer whose philosophy heavily influenced American makers. Learn more about American Craftsman/Arts and Crafts (1900s- 1930s). This enduring style continues to be sought after by collectors and homeowners alike, demonstrating its lasting appeal within the broader context of furniture styles by decade.

7. Contemporary Minimalism (1990s – 2010s)

Contemporary Minimalism is a significant entry in the evolution of furniture styles by decade. Emerging in the 1990s as a direct response to the opulence and maximalism of the preceding decades, this style gained considerable traction throughout the 2000s and 2010s. Its core philosophy, “less is more,” translates into clean lines, uncluttered spaces,  and deliberately removing unnecessary elements. Drawing inspiration from Japanese design principles and modernist ideals, Contemporary Minimalism prioritizes creating calm, intentional environments. Each piece of furniture serves a functional and aesthetic purpose, with negative space becoming a key design element.

This style’s defining features include clean, straight lines with minimal ornamentation; monochromatic or limited color palettes; open, airy spaces emphasizing natural light; hidden storage solutions to maintain clutter-free environments; and multi-functional furniture pieces. There is a strong focus on quality materials rather than quantity of items. Think sleek sofas, coffee tables, and a platform bed—more about contemporary Minimalism.

More about contemporary minimalism

Contemporary Minimalism offers numerous benefits. It creates calm, stress-reducing environments and presents a versatile aesthetic adaptable to various spaces. The emphasis on quality over quantity means investing in pieces built to last. With fewer objects, cleaning and maintenance become easier. Furthermore, this style ages gracefully, rarely appearing dated.

However, there are potential drawbacks to consider. Without the right balance, minimalist spaces can feel cold or sterile. High-quality minimalist pieces often come with premium price tags. Maintaining clutter-free environments requires discipline, and the minimalist aesthetic can sometimes limit opportunities for personal expression through objects.

Successful implementations of Contemporary Minimalism can be seen in the architectural interiors and furniture designs of John Pawson, known for his serene, light filled spaces. The “Super Normal” everyday objects by Jasper Morrison perfectly embody the style’s focus on functionality and simplicity. MUJI, the Japanese retailer, offers a wide range of functional, unbranded home goods that epitomize minimalist design. Naoto Fukasawa’s minimalist product designs also serve as excellent examples.

For those interested in embracing Contemporary Minimalism, here are some actionable tips:

• Invest in high-quality foundation pieces: These will last longer and contribute to the overall aesthetic.
• Add texture through natural materials: This helps prevent spaces from feeling cold and sterile. Think wool rugs, linen curtains, or wooden furniture.
• Consider proportion and scale carefully: In minimalist spaces, the size and placement of furniture are crucial.
• Incorporate plants and organic elements: These add warmth and life to the minimalist environment.
• Focus on intentional negative space rather than emptiness. Negative space should enhance the feeling of openness.
• Window treatments are considered to incorporate elements like sleek lines and natural materials into your choice for a modern and minimalist look. For window treatments that complement this style, explore options like Internal Fauxwood Shutters, which offers contemporary aesthetics. They can provide clean lines and adjustable light control, fitting perfectly within a minimalist design scheme. (Source: Elevate Your Home’s Style with Internal Fauxwood Shutters! from XL Security and Blinds)

Contemporary Minimalism deserves its place in any overview of furniture styles by decade. It reflects a societal shift towards mindful consumption and a desire for peaceful, uncluttered living spaces. Its enduring popularity speaks to the timeless appeal of simplicity and functionality. Key figures who popularized this style include British architectural designer John Pawson, Japanese architect Tadao Ando, Japanese retailer MUJI, and even Calvin Klein Home, which brought Minimalism to mainstream home fashion. More recently, Marie Kondo’s decluttering philosophy further complemented and reinforced the minimalist design ethos.

8. Bauhaus/International Style (1920s – 1930s)

The Bauhaus/International Style earns its place on this list of furniture styles by decade for its revolutionary impact on modern design. Emerging from the Bauhaus, a German design school active in the 1920s and 1930s, this style dramatically shifted design principles, emphasizing functionality and clean aesthetics. If you’re exploring furniture styles by decade, understanding the influence of Bauhaus is crucial for appreciating the evolution of modern interiors.

This movement rejected ornamentation and historical references, embracing the principle that “form follows function.” Bauhaus designers, including prominent figures like Walter Gropius, Marcel Breuer, and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, sought to unite art with industrial production, creating furniture accessible to a broader audience. This resulted in the International Style, which influenced architecture and design globally and continues to shape how we perceive and create furniture today.

Key Features of Bauhaus/International Style Furniture:

• Tubular steel frames and cantilevered structures: This innovative use of materials allowed for lightweight yet strong furniture pieces.
• Geometric, stripped-down forms: Circles, squares, and rectangles dominate the aesthetic, creating a sense of order.
• Industrial materials: Steel, glass, and plywood became signature materials, reflecting the industrial age and offering new design possibilities.
• Absence of decorative elements: Ornamentation was seen as superfluous, with the focus placed on the purity of form and material.
• Function-driven design: Every element of a piece served a purpose, maximizing utility and efficiency.
• Limited color palette: Primary colors, black, white, and gray, were favored, further emphasizing the minimalist approach.

Pros of Incorporating Bauhaus Style:

• Timeless appeal: Bauhaus designs remain contemporary and integrate seamlessly into modern interiors.
• Innovative engineering: The focus on functionality resulted in pieces that are as practical as they are aesthetically pleasing.
• Influence on accessibility: The initial intention of mass production made these designs more accessible, and affordable reproductions are widely available today.
• Versatile aesthetic: The clean, minimalist style works well in various interior design contexts.

Cons to Consider:

• Cost of originals: Authentic Bauhaus pieces can be extremely expensive collector’s items.
• Comfort considerations: Some designs prioritize form over comfort, a factor to consider depending on intended use.
• Prevalence of reproductions: The market is saturated with unauthorized reproductions, making it essential to source carefully.
• Potential coldness: When softening elements like textiles and rugs are added, industrial materials can feel cold or sterile.

Examples of Iconic Bauhaus Pieces:

• Marcel Breuer’s Wassily Chair (1925)
• Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s Barcelona Chair (1929)
• Mart Stam’s Cantilever Chair (1926)
• Josef Albers’ Nesting Tables (1927)

Tips for Integrating Bauhaus Style into Your Home:

• Balance classic and contemporary: Mix original or authorized reproduction Bauhaus pieces with contemporary furniture for a balanced look.
• Soften the industry by introducing textiles, rugs, and organic elements like plants to create a warmer, more inviting atmosphere.
• Source carefully: Look for licensed reproductions from authorized manufacturers like Knoll to ensure quality.
• Showcase structural elements: Place Bauhaus pieces where their innovative structural features, such as cantilevered forms, can be appreciated.

When and why should you use this approach? The Bauhaus aesthetic is ideal for individuals who appreciate simple design, functional furniture, and a timeless look. Whether you’re furnishing a modern apartment or a mid century home or simply adding a touch of classic design to your space, the Bauhaus style offers a unique and enduring contribution to the world of interior design. If you’re researching furniture styles by decade, the Bauhaus era provides a foundation for the design principles we still appreciate today.

9. Art Nouveau (1890s – 1910s)

The Art Nouveau movement, flourishing from the 1890s to the 1910s, represents a distinct departure from the historical revival styles prevalent in the late 19th century. As one of the most recognizable furniture styles by decade, it offers a unique blend of organic forms, exquisite craftsmanship, and a reaction against burgeoning industrial mass production. This style sought to infuse artistic beauty into everyday objects, reflecting an idealistic belief that art should be accessible to the average person. Art Nouveau stands out as a pivotal moment when considering furniture styles by decadence, bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern design sensibilities.

At its core, Art Nouveau embraces the natural world as its primary source of inspiration. Flowing, asymmetrical lines mimic the growth patterns of plants, while “whiplash” curves and organic motifs evoke a sense of dynamic movement. Think sinuously carved wooden furniture, often incorporating exotic materials like mother-of-pearl and abalone. Stained glass nature-inspired designs and refined metalwork with botanical forms are hallmarks of this style.

More aboArt Nouveaueau

The allure of Art Nouveau lies in its highly distinctive aesthetic and artistic value. Each piece possesses an inherent handcrafted quality, demonstrating exceptional attention to detail. Incorporating Art Nouveau furniture creates dramatic and romantic interior environments, with individual pieces often serving as standalone works of art in contemporary settings. Examples of prominent Art Nouveau designers include Louis Majorelle, known for his mahogany furniture with intricate floral marquetry, and Émile Gallé, celebrated for his carved wooden pieces imbued with naturalistic details. The influence of Art Nouveau extended beyond furniture, impacting architecture and design as seen in Hector Guimard’s iconic Paris Metro entrances and Antoni Gaudí’s ergonomic furniture designs for Casa Batlló.

However, acquiring authentic Art Nouveau pieces presents challenges. Genuine articles are rare and often prohibitively expensive. Their ornate styling can also overwhelm modern interiors if not carefully integrated. Furthermore, these pieces require specialized care and maintenance due to the delicate nature of the materials and craftsmanship. Reproduction pieces are more readily available, but often lack the quality and artistry of the originals.

Considering Using the Art Nouveau Style?

If you’re considering Art Nouveau in your décor, consider these tips: use Art Nouveau pieces as standalone statements rather than in sets, allowing their unique beauty to shine. Pair them with simple, contemporary elements to create a balanced and harmonious look. For a less costly approach, consider Art Nouveau-inspired lighting fixtures to introduce a touch of the style. When purchasing, prioritize quality craftsmanship, paying close attention to carved details and joinery.

Key figures who popularized Art Nouveau include Louis Comfort Tiffany, renowned for his stunning lamps and decorative objects; Émile Gallé, a leading French Art Nouveau designer; Carlo Bugatti, known for his exotic and theatrical furniture; Victor Horta, a Belgian architect who created total Art Nouveau environments; and Alphonse Mucha, whose graphic work heavily influenced furniture decoration.

Learn more about Art Nouveau (1890s – 1910s)

This style deserves its place in any discussion of furniture styles by decade because it marked a crucial transition in design history. It rejected the purely imitative nature of historical revivalism and embraced the potential of new materials and techniques, paving the way for the modernist movement of the early 20th century. For homeowners, interior designers, collectors, and anyone seeking quality and value, understanding the nuances of Art Nouveau offers a valuable perspective on the evolution of furniture design.

10. Modern Organic (2010s – Present)

Key Features of Modern Organic Furniture:

• Natural, sustainable materials with minimal processing: Think sustainably harvested wood, organic cotton, linen, wool, bamboo, and recycled materials.
• Celebration of imperfections and natural variations: Knots in wood, variations in texture, and unique grain patterns are not flaws, but rather celebrated features.
• Curved, organic silhouettes inspired by nature: Shapes often mimic those found in nature, such as the curve of a branch or the smooth surface of a river stone.
• Neutral, earth toned color palettes: Colors draw inspiration from the natural world, creating a sense of calm.
• Handcrafted elements combined with modern manufacturing: This blend results in pieces that feel unique and accessible.
• Mix of textures: rough and smooth, matte and polished, adds depth and visual interest.

Pros:

• Creates warm spaces with contemporary appeal: Modern Organic spaces feel stylish.
• Often incorporates sustainable practices and materials: This approach benefits the environment and your health.
• Ages gracefully as natural materials develop patina: These pieces gain character and beauty over time.
• Connects interiors with nature, supporting wellbeing: The biophilic focus fosters a sense of peace.

Cons:

• Quality pieces with sustainable credentials can be expensive: Sourcing and crafting with sustainable materials often come at a premium.
• Natural materials may require special maintenance: Certwood and fabrics require specific care.
• Some woods and materials require responsible sourcing. It’s important to ensure that materials are truly sustainably sourced.
• It can be difficult to distinguish from mass market imitations: The style’s popularity has led to many less sustainable imitations.

Examples of Modern Organic Design:

• Apparatus Studio: Known for their sculptural lighting and furniture that celebrate materiality.
• BDDW: Creates handcrafted wooden tables and case goods of modern heirloom quality.
• Ochre: Designs elemental furniture with natural materials and a focus on craftsmanship.
• Benchmark Furniture: Specializes in sustainably crafted pieces.

Tips for Incorporating Modern Organic Style:

• Invest in signature pieces made from sustainably harvested woods. Look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council).
• Mixed elements like rough ceramics, woven textiles, and smooth woods. This creates visual interest and depth.
• Choose pieces with FSC certification or transparent material sourcing. Verify the sustainability claims of manufacturers.
• Incorporate indoor plants to enhance the biophilic connection. Plants bring life to the space.
• Balance organic forms with some structured elements for a contemporary feel. This prevents the space from feeling overly rustic.

Popularized By:

• Studio APPARATUS: Their sculptural, material focused pieces helped define the aesthetic.
• Axel Vervoordt: A Belgian designer who pioneered modern organic Minimalism.
• Tyler Hays of BDDW: His handcrafted modern heirloom furniture has become highly sought after.
• Athena Calderone: A designer and author who further popularized the aesthetic through her work.
• Architects like Tadao Ando and Peter Zumthor: Their minimalist, material driven architecture heavily influenced furniture design in this era.

Modern Organic furniture represents a significant shift in interior design, focusing on sustainability, connection with nature, and a return to tactile experiences. Its appeal ensures its continued relevance in the ongoing evolution of furniture styles by decade.

Furniture Styles by Decade Comparison

Crafting Timelessness: Integrating Furniture Styles into Your Home