Living the Deco Dream.

We cant all live in a superb example of International modernism, such as the glamorous Eltham Palace or some of the magnificent houses seen over the following pages, but it is possible to recreate something of the style and elegance of Art Deco – that is until you’ve saved up enough money to purchase your dream Deco house by the sea!

 Although the style of Art Deco reached its peak during the 1930s, it could be considered the style of the 20th century when, for the first time, mass production meant that it was available to everyone. The simple lines of classic Art Deco still attract substantial interest today, as the furniture and accessories can look good in both a minimalist space or in the highly popular ‘eclectic’ interior.

 So, how can we achieve ‘the look’ in our homes today? Whether you’re looking to create the full ensemble or just wanting a statement piece, here are a few hints to help you achieve it. The colours associated with Art Deco style were often bold, although sometimes subtle: black, silver, chrome, cream, beige, oyster, the primary shades of yellow and red and, of course, the colour of the age, Eau de Nil. Walls were kept plain and free from decoration, and sometimes varnished for a glossy sheen....'

Looking for your dream Art Deco house by the sea? Well ‘The White House’ is for sale and could just fit the bill.

'BUILT IN 1935 for the second son of a wealthy Cornish family, this Art Deco house commands a prominent site overlooking Porth Beach and Trevelgue Head. After the war, the house was modernised and extended, but The White House is still remembered locally for the parties that were held there during those years of high society! When Sue and David Morffew came back from a trip to Florida, they had a new passion: Art Deco architecture. In particular they had been inspired by their time spent in South Beach; the Art Deco capital of Miami...'

Seaside Deco - in 1612 Francis Bacon stated, "Houses are built to live in and not look at." But where the Art Deco house is concerned he couldn't have been further from the truth!

'The Art Deco white houses, though often hard to find, are designed to stand and look at in wonderment, as well as live in. Few people can stumble across such a piece of architecture without a sharp intake of breath followed by a feeling of wonderment and ecstasy at their purity and aesthetic beauty. In the 1920s and 30s with the advance of modernity, some architects in the brave new world dared to rush headlong to meet the future – indeed through their inspired designs, helped shape the future – instead of looking to their past for inspiration.

These architects were in truth a rare breed and mostly they needed their clients support in order to experiment with new designs and styles. When they were able to find such a patron one of the great places to build a modern home was by the sea. Along with the new ‘Moderne’ home....'

Nautical But Nice - June will see the third maritime and transport sale at Netherhampton Salerooms in Salisbury.

'molecula.co.uk is an online design portal powered by two like-minded individuals. Specialising in Vintage Modernism from the Bauhaus era to the 70s. Each item is carefully chosen for its style, design, beauty and extravagance. All items are conserved where possible or restored if necessary, and there are no reproductions or copies.

Find molecula at: Salisbury Antiques Centre, Wiltshire. Midcentury Modern, Dulwich College, London. The Midcentury Show, De La Warr Pavillion, Bexhill on Sea, East Sussex. Above: A J Royal ceiling pendant is a crisp and minimal piece, measuring 50 cms in diameter and housing for four bulbs. The sleek, pared-down design softly emits light upwards through the stepped louvres at the top of the fixture, to create an eye-catching effect. Designed by Arne Jacobsen in 1957 for the SAS Hotel, Copenhagen. Manufactured by Louis Poulsen. Price: £345.00...'

IJune will see the third maritime and transport sale at Netherhampton Salerooms in Salisbury!

Items from some of the most famous ships in British history are to be included in the next Maritime & Transport sale at Netherhampton Salerooms on June 12th. In 1967 RMS Queen Mary retired to the waterfront of Long Beach, California to take on a new lease of life as the most famous Art Deco hotel in the world. A folding ship’s table, originally from the upper deck, is being offered for auction and is estimated at £100 to £150...'