From the bold elegance of Art Deco to the tranquil beauty of the Tuscan countryside and the charming restoration of Ireland’s historic estates, the world of design and architecture continues to evolve while honoring its rich past. Each of these iconic styles offers a unique story, blending history, artistry, and craftsmanship to create spaces that feel both timeless and fresh. Whether you're drawn to the glamour of the 1920s, the rustic charm of Italian villas, or the enduring elegance of Irish country homes, these narratives celebrate the fusion of tradition and innovation in design.
The Glamorous Revival of Art Deco
The opulent aesthetic of the 1920s and 1930s is making a stylish comeback, with Art Deco once again taking center stage. This fall, the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco are celebrating the iconic movement with the first major US retrospective of Tamara de Lempicka. Known for her vibrant portraits of the wealthy and famous, the Polish-born artist's work helped define the Art Deco era, alongside architectural landmarks like New York’s Empire State and Chrysler Buildings.
Today, Art Deco's sleek interiors, geometric shapes, and jewel tones are enjoying newfound popularity. Bryan O’Sullivan, renowned for his work at London’s Claridge’s, praises its indulgent curves and dramatic flair. “Art Deco transports you to an era of drama and fun,” he says, noting its ability to elevate modern spaces with timeless elegance.
Designers like Lucy Derbyshire of Studio QD agree, citing Art Deco’s craftsmanship and sophistication as its enduring appeal. “It’s all about making a statement,” she explains. “Its luxurious materials and aspirational style remain as relevant now as they were a century ago.”
From revamped interiors like The Astor in London to creative reinterpretations across the design world, Art Deco continues to captivate. Its bold yet versatile aesthetic ensures its legacy as a symbol of creativity, quality, and glamour.
Tuscany: Where History, Art, and La Dolce Vita Meet
Tuscany’s rolling hills, world-renowned vineyards, and rich artistic heritage make it the epitome of la dolce vita—a celebration of life’s pleasures: good food, fine wine, and timeless beauty. With historic cities like Florence, Siena, and Lucca nearby, the region offers a perfect blend of idyllic countryside living and cultural allure.
Its popularity among property seekers is no surprise. From Villa Monna Lisa, a 16th-century mansion tied to the family of the Mona Lisa, to meticulously restored 15th-century estates, Tuscany is a treasure trove of history. “Homes here effortlessly combine the past and present,” notes Laura May Todd, author of Italian Interiors: Rooms With a View. “They’re meant for living, with spaces designed for gathering, dining, and relaxation.”
One such estate near Massa Marittima features vineyards, olive groves, a lake, and even a golf course, epitomizing the Tuscan lifestyle. For those not yet ready to make the move, New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art offers a taste of the region with Siena: The Rise of Painting, 1300-1350 (through January 26), a stunning exhibition on the dawn of the Italian Renaissance.
Whether dreaming of a Tuscan villa or simply seeking inspiration, this enchanting region never fails to captivate.
Irish Heritage Homes: A New Chapter
From castles to countryside retreats, Ireland’s historic homes are experiencing a revival. Author and lecturer Robert O’Byrne, known for his blog The Irish Aesthete and books like Romantic Irish Homes, highlights this transformation in his latest work, The Irish Country House: A New Vision (Rizzoli).
The book showcases 15 remarkable properties, such as Summergrove in County Laois, with its Venetian windows and rococo plasterwork, and Castlecor House in County Longford, featuring a unique octagonal hunting lodge. It also tells the story of Killua Castle, a neo-Gothic fortress transformed from ruin to grandeur by Allen Sanginés-Krause and Lorena Sanginés-Krause, complete with medieval and Renaissance art.
Photographer Luke White captures how these homes blend history and modernity, from four-poster beds to hand-printed wallpapers. Sir David Davies, owner of the restored Killoughter villa and president of the Irish Georgian Society, exemplifies this dedication, combining antique craftsmanship with Irish art.
O’Byrne’s book counters the narrative of decline, celebrating how passionate individuals are restoring Ireland’s architectural heritage, making it vibrant and relevant for generations to come.
Across continents and styles, these timeless themes remind us of the enduring allure of heritage, craftsmanship, and beauty. Whether it’s the opulent curves of Art Deco, the serene charm of Tuscany’s rolling hills, or the storied grandeur of Irish country houses, each narrative offers a glimpse into the past reimagined for the present. These spaces, rich in history and creativity, not only preserve tradition but also inspire a fresh appreciation for the art of living.
