Art Deco brings geometric patterns, bold materials, and vintage glamour to the bathroom. Here's how to create an authentic Deco-inspired space.
Art Deco emerged in the 1920s and 1930s as a celebration of modernity, luxury, and geometric form. Its bold aesthetic translates beautifully to bathrooms, creating spaces that feel glamorous without being ostentatious. For London's period properties — many built during the Deco era — this style can feel particularly authentic.
Defining Features
Geometric Patterns
Art Deco is defined by geometry — chevrons, sunbursts, stepped forms, and fan shapes. In bathrooms, this translates to geometric tile patterns (hexagonal floor tiles, fan-shaped wall tiles, black and white chequered floors), geometric mirror shapes, and angular fixtures.
Luxurious Materials
Deco was about aspiration and opulence. Marble (real or convincing porcelain reproductions), brass fixtures, and high-gloss surfaces evoke the era. A marble-effect vanity top with brushed brass taps immediately signals Art Deco intent.
Monochrome with Metallic Accents
The classic Deco palette is black and white with gold or brass accents. This timeless combination works in bathrooms of any size. Black floor tiles with white walls, or white tiles with black accent borders, create instant Deco character.
Fixtures and Fittings
- Basin: A pedestal basin or wall-mounted basin with geometric lines. Burlington and Imperial make excellent Deco-style ceramics
- Taps: Crosshead taps in brushed brass or polished chrome. Burlington and Perrin & Rowe offer authentic designs
- Bath: A freestanding cast-iron roll-top bath painted in a deep colour (navy, forest green, matt black) with chrome or brass feet
- Mirror: An arched or fan-shaped mirror is the quintessential Deco statement piece
- Lighting: Wall sconces with glass or opal shades either side of the mirror. Globe pendant lights for overhead illumination
Tiles
Tiles are where Art Deco really comes alive:
- Floor: Black and white hexagonal tiles, geometric encaustic patterns, or marble-effect with black border inlays
- Walls: White metro tiles with black grout, fan-shaped (scallop) tiles in white or green, or marble-effect large format for a more contemporary take
- Accent borders: A black pencil border tile or dado line at mid-height adds period authenticity
Modern Deco vs Authentic Period
You can take Art Deco in two directions:
Authentic period: Chrome fittings, exposed plumbing, traditional radiators, chain-pull cistern, black and white floor tiles. This suits pre-war properties and listed buildings where period authenticity matters.
Modern Deco: Contemporary fixtures with Deco-influenced shapes, geometric tiles, brushed brass brassware, and a more refined material palette. This is the more popular approach for renovations — the glamour of Deco with modern convenience and comfort.
Art Deco is one of the most requested design styles for our London renovations. Get in touch to discuss how we can bring Deco glamour to your bathroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Art Deco work in small bathrooms?
Yes, but restrain the pattern. Use one geometric feature (floor tiles or a statement mirror) rather than layering multiple patterns. The monochrome palette helps small spaces feel larger.
What tiles are most authentic for Art Deco?
Black and white hexagonal floor tiles with white metro wall tiles is the classic combination. For walls, fan-shaped (scallop) tiles in white or jade green are authentically Deco.
Is Art Deco expensive to achieve?
Not necessarily. The style relies on pattern and contrast rather than exotic materials. Geometric tiles are widely available at all price points, and the monochrome palette uses standard tile colours.
2026 Update
Refreshed for 2026. Design trends evolve, but the principles here still hold — choose timeless surfaces and add personality through changeable details. Want this look in your home? Get a free 3D design and quote.
