World of New Interiors - Introduction

The organic contours of Art Nouveau on the outside of buildings were matched by equally compelling interiors. Within a smaller space, patrons could be more daring. Designers had creative freedom to create furnishings which were detailed to the last door handle, chair or teaspoon. In Belgium, Germany and France, the emphasis was on curvilinear forms, with differing approaches to decorative and functional restraint. Wood was twisted into new shapes, with entomological additions, but could also be sleek and functional. Glasgow and Vienna tended to the geometric. In other parts of Europe, nationalistic and vernacular influences were prevalent including Nordic Viking and dragon styles (dragestil). The Paris World’s Fair in 1900 featured interiors by Norwegian Henrik Bull, and chairs by Jan Kastner of Prague.