If you want a contemporary look, but don't want it to be too harsh or minimal, then art deco is a great design style. It dates from the 1920s and 1930s and encompasses several references including orientalism, exoticism, Egyptian revivalism, cubism and a few other ism's. But overall it is entirely modern. But, and herein lies its appeal, it doesn't have to be minimal. This Gazelle repeat stencil, VN82, from our Vintage range of stencils is a perfect example. It takes an exotic animal and makes it smooth, sleek, slim and stylish. It is so stylised that it is no longer realistic looking in the slightest although you recognise what it is. Repeat the leaping gazelle across your wall and it will look wholly modern, but not cold or clinical, especially when done in warm metallic gold. Given that art deco is hundred years old, one would be forgiven for thinking it is old hat and old-fashioned. Far from it. It still looks as modern today as it did back then. This is but a mere introduction to a big design movement. Old fashioned modernity never looked so appealing.
Rachel.