Design in the 1920s

The main features of the design in the 1920s were characterized by a shift towards modernism and a rejection of traditional styles. This was reflected in using new materials such as glass, steel, and concrete, as well as focusing on functionality and simplicity. The Art Deco movement emerged during this time, emphasising geometric shapes, bold colours, and stylized motifs inspired by ancient cultures. Streamlining also became popular in transportation design, with cars and trains featuring sleek curves and aerodynamic shapes. The Bauhaus School of Design was founded in 1919 and had a significant influence on the development of modernist design principles during the 1920s. Its emphasis on the integration of art and technology led to innovations in furniture design, with pieces that were both aesthetically pleasing and practical. Overall, the design trends of the 1920s represented a break from the past and paved the way for future developments in modernist design.

Vanity Case circa 1930 by Gérard Sandoz

Gérard Sandoz, a prominent figure in French jewellery design, fused traditional craftsmanship with modern expressions, strongly impacting the modernist movement and leaving a lasting artistic legacy.Read More →

Sparton Model 557 'Sled' Table Radio, ca. 1936 Brooklyn Museum

Moderne was a decorative style that was mostly about how things looked on the outside. Moderne architecture was most noticeable in public buildings like skyscrapers and movie theatres. Postmodernism later brought back a lot of the styles that were part of the moderne movement.Read More →