The Art Deco Style: A basis for the renewal of wallpaper in the 20th century

The first decades of the 20th century witnessed the rise of the Art Deco movement, an aesthetic characterized by bold geometric patterns and vivid color palettes. Art Deco wallpaper soared in popularity during the 1920s and 1930s, blending harmoniously into many residential interiors and public buildings.
Many artists gave wallpaper its letters of nobility during this period.

The Modern Era: Sustainable Impact on Wallpaper and Interior Design

During the 1930s and 1940s, the momentum of the modern movement gave rise to a new era, marked by the creations of designers such as Le Corbusier, Charlotte Perriand and Marcel Breuer. These visionaries developed minimalist, functional styles that left an indelible mark on interior and wallpaper design.

Modern wallpaper of this era was often distinguished by abstract and geometric patterns, and the use of neutral hues and simple textures. These characteristics instilled a new aesthetic, favoring the expression of uncluttered elegance and pragmatic utility. The legacy of this period still resonates today, reminding us how the evolution of design has combined functionality and creativity to shape living spaces in a sustainable way.

The Evolution of Gravure Printing

Heliography, a relief printing method based on the use of engraved copper plates, proved to be a revolution in the world of wallpaper. During the 20th century, this technique exerted a major influence on the interior design landscape. It offered designers the possibility of creating patterns of greater complexity and detail, while exploring a wider palette of colors.

Leading names such as Zuber & Cie, which was founded in 1797, masterfully exploited this technique. This method was used to create wallpapers of exceptional quality, which later embellished iconic buildings such as the Château de Versailles and the White House. The influence of this breakthrough was reflected in the addition of an unrivalled artistic and aesthetic dimension to the history of interior design. By paving the way for the creation of sophisticated, refined patterns, gravure printing played a key role in the evolution of the striking aesthetics of this pivotal period.

Fantasy Wallpapers

During the 1950s and 1960s, fantasy wallpaper grew in popularity, characterized by playful, eccentric patterns that widely invaded residential interiors and public buildings. Designs such as polka dots, checkerboards and stripes came to the fore during this era, helping to shape bold and entertaining decors. Companies like Cole and Son forged their reputation by producing high-quality wallpapers with whimsical patterns, which continue to enjoy timeless popularity to this day.

Pop style and 1990s Pattern

During the 1990s, the iconic patterns and hues of the pop art movement enjoyed extraordinary popularity. The resulting wallpapers are often distinguished by their bright tones, boldness and innovative character. They feature patterns that reflect the distinctive aesthetics of the 60s and 70s.

During this period, fantasy wallpapers also maintained their appeal, exhibiting abstract, floral and geometric designs that draw their inspiration from the art movements of abstraction and modernism.

To summarise, the 20th century was a period of captivating metamorphoses for wallpaper, drawing inspiration from artistic movements to create decorative masterpieces that continue to fascinate today.