Utility Design: A Liverpool Icon Redefining Design and Style
For 25 years, Utility has been more than just a store in Liverpool; it’s been a destination for those who appreciate quality, craftsmanship, and design.
You could say the two combined are contradictory; Scandinavian is known for its clean, minimal, nature-inspired interiors that focus on function whereas Art Deco embodies bold curves, eclectic colours, and plenty of vintage ornaments. Bare with me.
As with Scandinavian design, Art Deco gave rise to a new approach to design after the war. Moving away from Art Nouveau and influenced by sleek, bold, and geometric lines, Art Deco originated in Paris in the early 1920s and took form in architecture, interiors, decor, carpentry, automotive and much more. It wasn’t long before the two styles met; Art Deco designers looked to Scandinavian design, in particular, to learn from the functional shapes that the style had become known for.
And we’re so glad they did. When brought together, the detailing and glamour of Art Deco married with the simplicity and sleek design of Scandinavian is a match made in heaven. Understandingly mixing two styles can be daunting, the ‘what if’ panic, but suppose you love a little bit of Old Hollywood and would love to bring it into your home without going all out on Art Deco, this combo may just be the style you’re looking for.
Inside every art deco home is a touch of eclectic, standout design. One way to bring a touch of colour into your home, with a nod to Scandinavian and art deco would be by stepping outside of usual dining chairs. By that, I mean soft pink oyster dining chairs that ooze glamour and bring a vintage aesthetic into a room without dominating the rest of the interiors.
If there was ever a look that marked the classic design of the ’20s and ’30s it was the glamorous and often flamboyant style of Art Deco that many of us swoon over to this day. What the pairing of Scandinavian and Art Deco design does so well is the balance of character that shines through the gold elements and sparkly features, that you wouldn’t typically find in the clean, fresh look of Scandinavian interiors. When you’re looking to pattern instead of brass, look no further than a geometric area rug; not only are they incredibly stylish but they’re a perfect feature that will enhance the interior style you’re going for.
Bring together natural elements to contrast with a darker colour palette by incorporating shades such as Cobart Night, which offers a deep navy undertone that would work beautifully as part of a colour block feature. Alternatively you could opt for a shade such as Storm Clearing, a grey that’s not as dark but still offers plenty to create a vintage look of art deco and yet keeps the sleekness of Scandinavian.
There are few rules when it comes to Art Deco interiors; it embraces a carefree spirit within the boundaries of your creativity. An element of the interior style that I absolutely love. Scandinavian calls for calmer, cool features using natural materials, once combined with gold and brass finishes, velvet fabrics, and eclectic deco the room quickly becomes a feast for the eyes.
Photo Credits: Henrik Nero
For 25 years, Utility has been more than just a store in Liverpool; it’s been a destination for those who appreciate quality, craftsmanship, and design.
Nobody likes to feel rushed. If there's a way to lessen the stress of moving into a new home then we're here to help.
From pet friendly to air purifying, feast your eyes on indoor plants and brighten up any room with nature inside your room.