Art Deco

       The 1920's is only known for the era of the prohibition, it is also known for the beginning of the design movement known as Art Deco, a shortened version of the French phrase "Arts Décoratifs". In France, this period is actually referred to as "les années folles" meaning  'the crazy years.' During this time, many ideas of the international avant-garde in the fields of architecture and applied arts were brought together. Originating in France, this style was well-known for not being concerning itself with functionalism and technology. It was a fashion-oriented style that was strongly decorative and influenced by Art Nouveau. 

       It all started with l'Exposition Internationale des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels Modernes. The event received 4,000 guests on the day of inauguration with thousands of visitors each of the following days. The style later would become known as "Art Deco" a modern style characterized by a streamlined classicism, and geometric and symmetric compositions, The public however, was not as excited about this new style. they were a quite hesitant to accept it.

       Chevron shapes, zigzags, large mirrors, glass, and prominent light fixtures are the most noted characteristics of Art Deco. The transition of horizontal and vertical lines that create the silhouette of a staircase step were also used and very common during this time. Materials like ebony, zebra wood with inlays of ivory, tortoise-shell, leather, and polished metals are all examples of luxury materials that are commonly used when designing Art Deco interiors. 

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It's in French, but the man basically takes you on a tour around the city of Paris, talking about the different buildings that were constructed during the Art Deco period.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1j63-tY3okk&list=PLGYKyocXgHJLhj84fYZrogiPhi4hLCAKf