Bohemian wallpaper has a rich history that spans over a century. It started in the Art Nouveau era and has continued to evolve, blending different styles and influences to create a unique and vibrant aesthetic.
Art Nouveau (1890-1910)
The Art Nouveau movement originated in Europe in the late 19th century and was characterized by its ornate and sinuous designs inspired by nature. This style was popularized by artists such as Gustav Klimt, Alphonse Mucha, and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, who created decorative art that featured organic forms, curved lines, and intricate patterns.
Art Nouveau wallpaper was no exception, with its extravagant designs and use of bold colors. This wallpaper style was often used in the homes of wealthy Europeans and was seen as a symbol of status and luxury.
One of the most famous Art Nouveau wallpaper designers was William Morris. Morris was a British designer who founded the Arts and Crafts movement, which aimed to bring back traditional craftsmanship and promote the value of handmade objects. Morris’s wallpaper designs featured intricate floral patterns and were printed using traditional techniques such as block printing and hand painting.
Another notable Art Nouveau wallpaper designer was René Lalique. Lalique was a French glassmaker and jewelry designer who created wallpaper designs that featured bold floral and geometric patterns. Lalique’s wallpaper was often printed using the pochoir technique, which involved applying color through stencils.
In the Art Nouveau era, wallpaper was not just a decorative element but was also seen as a work of art. Art Nouveau wallpaper was often expensive and was used in grand homes and public buildings such as hotels, restaurants, and theaters.
Art Deco (1920-1930)
After the Art Nouveau era, the Art Deco movement emerged in the 1920s. Art Deco was characterized by its geometric shapes, bold colors, and streamlined designs. This style was influenced by the industrial revolution and the rise of technology, and it aimed to create a modern and futuristic aesthetic.
Art Deco wallpaper featured bold geometric patterns, often in black and white or metallic colors such as gold and silver. This wallpaper style was used in public spaces such as airports, train stations, and movie theaters, as well as in homes.
One of the most famous Art Deco wallpaper designers was Jean Dupas. Dupas was a French artist who created wallpaper designs that featured glamorous figures, often in gold or silver tones, set against bold geometric patterns.
Another notable Art Deco wallpaper designer was Paul Follot. Follot was a French designer who created wallpaper designs that featured bold abstract patterns in bright colors such as red, orange, and green.
Art Deco wallpaper was often used in grand public spaces, such as the lobby of the Chrysler Building in New York City, which features a mural by Edward Trumbull depicting the progress of transportation.
Mid-Century Modern (1940-1960)
In the mid-20th century, the mid-century modern style emerged. This style was characterized by its clean lines, simple forms, and use of natural materials such as wood and stone. Mid-century modern design aimed to create a functional and uncluttered aesthetic, inspired by the Bauhaus movement in Germany.
Mid-century modern wallpaper featured simple geometric patterns and abstract designs in muted colors such as beige, gray, and brown. This wallpaper style was often used in homes and commercial spaces such as offices and hotels.
One of the most famous mid-century modern wallpaper designers was Raymond Loewy. Loewy was an American industrial designer who created wallpaper designs that featured simple geometric patterns in muted colors. Loewy’s wallpaper was used in offices and public spaces such as airports and train stations.
Another notable mid-century modern wallpaper designer was Alexander Girard. Girard was an American textile designer who created wallpaper designs that featured bold abstract patterns in bright colors. Girard’s wallpaper was often used in homes and public spaces such as restaurants and hotels.
Mid-century modern wallpaper was seen as a way to create a clean and modern aesthetic in homes and public spaces while still incorporating decorative elements.
Boho (1960-Present)
In the 1960s, the boho style emerged as a reaction against the clean and minimalist aesthetic of mid-century modern design. Boho style is characterized by its eclectic and colorful designs, inspired by a mix of cultures and styles.
Boho wallpaper features bold and colorful patterns, often incorporating elements of nature such as flowers, plants, and animals. This wallpaper style is often used in homes and is seen as a way to create a whimsical and bohemian aesthetic.
