Opened in Paris 100 years ago this month, the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs introduced the world to a bold design movement defined by sleek lines, geometric patterns and a streamlined symmetry.
Art deco would leave its mark on a wide array of design, influencing everything from skyscrapers to cinemas, even finding its way into London’s Tube stations. Dubbed the “first international style”, it blended glamour with modernity, shaping architecture from Miami to Manila.
As the centenary of art deco approaches, we spotlight six destinations where this timeless design still dazzles.
1. London, Britain
London boasts some of the finest examples of interwar art deco architecture. In the heart of Westminster, the former Underground Electric Railways Company headquarters – now the London Transport Building – was completed in 1929. Designed to project modernity and efficiency, it perfectly represented the ambitions of the booming British capital. The Hoover Building, in Perivale, West London, completed in 1933 for the American vacuum cleaner company, also stands out with its symmetrical facade and bold colour scheme, making it a favourite among design enthusiasts.
For a taste of continental chic, Brasserie Zédel, near Piccadilly Circus, is a must visit. Hidden behind an unassuming entrance, the spacious dining room channels the spirit of 1930s Parisian brasseries. With its marble pillars and soft lighting, Zédel provides an escape into the style and sophistication of a bygone age and serves as a unique cultural time capsule.
2. Miami Beach, the US
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