In the world of interior design, few styles capture the imagination quite like Art Deco. This design movement recalls the glamour of a bygone era while remaining thoroughly modern. Whether you're renovating a historic home or adding character to a contemporary build, retro tile designs exude sophistication.
With bold geometrics, luxurious materials, and a nod to the glamour of the Roaring Twenties, art deco tiles offer a timeless elegance that continues to captivate homeowners and designers alike. Adding elements of Moroccan tiles or Mediterranean tiles to your design introduces an exotic touch, blending Art Deco glamour with intricate global patterns and textures. This combination brings depth, character, and a sense of worldly sophistication to any home.
The Enduring Allure of Art Deco
Art Deco, short for Arts Décoratifs, emerged in the 1920s and quickly became synonymous with luxury and modernity. Its influence spanned architecture, fashion, and, most strikingly, interior design. Art deco tiles, with their bold patterns and rich colours, have the power to transform a mundane space into a masterpiece. When paired with the intricate detailing of Moroccan tiles or the relaxed elegance of Mediterranean tiles, the result is an extraordinary design filled with texture and charm.
Geometric Brilliance
At the heart of Art Deco design lies a love for geometric patterns. Chevrons, sunbursts, and stepped forms are hallmarks of the style, creating visual interest and a sense of movement. These patterns often found in retro tile designs evoke nostalgia while remaining fresh and modern. When combined with the curvilinear motifs of Moroccan tiles or the mosaic-like details of Mediterranean tiles, they create a dynamic interplay of bold and intricate.
Designer Tips:
- Use large-format Art Deco-inspired tiles to create a stunning floor as the foundation of your room’s design.
- Pair Moroccan arabesques with Art Deco geometrics for a striking feature wall.
- Opt for tessellating patterns to create designs that are as visually complex as they are timeless.
Luxurious Materials
Art Deco tiles, Moroccan tiles, and Mediterranean tiles all share a love for high-quality materials. Glossy ceramics, intricate mosaics, and natural stones like marble are hallmarks of these styles. Metallic finishes, including brass and chrome, are also common in Art Deco designs, adding a touch of opulence.
Moroccan tiles bring hand-painted patterns and earthy textures, while Mediterranean tiles evoke coastal tranquillity with their sun-washed hues and rustic charm. Together, these materials provide a blend of glamour, authenticity, and global appeal.
Colour Palettes that Pop
While black and white are iconic in Art Deco, the style also embraces bold, saturated colours. Deep greens, rich blues, and vibrant yellows add drama and sophistication. Moroccan tiles introduce vibrant cobalt blues, warm yellows, and terracotta tones, while Mediterranean tiles use soft blues, creamy whites, and seafoam greens to create a relaxed, coastal feel.
Styling Suggestion:
Combine emerald green Art Deco tiles with Moroccan cobalt blues in a bathroom to create a jewel-box effect. Add brass fixtures to enhance the overall glamour.
Incorporating Art Deco, Moroccan, and Mediterranean Tiles in Modern Spaces
These tiles are incredibly versatile and can elevate a wide range of spaces, either as a bold feature or a subtle accent.
Ways to Use These Tiles:
- Feature Walls: Pair geometric Art Deco tiles with detailed Moroccan motifs for a living room or bedroom wall that doubles as art.
- Flooring: Transform your floors with Art Deco patterns, Mediterranean mosaics, or Moroccan arabesques. These styles bring elegance and durability to kitchens, bathrooms, or entryways.
- Splashbacks: Add drama to your kitchen or bathroom with a retro tile design splashback that incorporates a blend of Art Deco and Moroccan styles.
- Outdoor Spaces: Use Mediterranean tiles for patios and pool surrounds, or incorporate Moroccan-inspired designs to bring warmth and vibrancy to outdoor areas.
Mixing Old and New
One of the most exciting aspects of using vintage tiles in contemporary homes is the ability to mix classic elegance with modern sensibilities. Pair art deco tiles with minimalist fixtures for a look that’s both timeless and on-trend. Moroccan and Mediterranean tiles, with their detailed craftsmanship, add a handmade touch to sleek, modern spaces.
Styling Suggestion:
Combine an Art Deco backsplash with Mediterranean-inspired terracotta flooring in the kitchen. The contrast between bold and relaxed elements creates a cohesive yet dynamic space.
Going Bold with Retro Tile Designs
Incorporating art deco tiles, Moroccan tiles, or Mediterranean tiles into your home is more than just a design choice—it’s a statement of style and appreciation for history, quality, and beauty. These tiles celebrate different design traditions while making a bold impact in modern interiors.
COCO Tiles and Mosaics offers an exquisite collection of retro, vintage, art deco floor tiles waiting to transform your space into a masterpiece of vintage elegance. So if you are ready to make a style statement, our big and bold collection of art deco floor tiles will be all the inspo you need!