15 Iconic Art Deco Buildings You Must See Around the World

Art Deco buildings stand as monuments to a bygone era, their striking facades and elegant forms embodying the spirit of both innovation and opulence that defined the early 20th century. With their geometric motifs, stepped profiles, and lavish decorative elements, these structures offer a glimpse into a time when architectural design served as a bridge between the traditional and the modernist aesthetic. From the iconic towers that redefine the New York City skyline to ornate interiors around the globe, art deco buildings represent a unique confluence of art, architecture, and history, making them cultural symbols that continue to fascinate and inspire.

In this article, you'll be taken on a journey through some of the most famous art deco buildings worldwide, from the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building in New York City to lesser-known gems in cities like Havana, Brussels, and Shanghai. Each building selected showcases the diversity and creativity of art deco architects who skillfully blended functionality with elegance. As we explore these architectural landmarks, including those set against the backdrop of the best European cities for architecture, you'll discover the distinctive features that make art deco a celebrated style among artistic buildings, including sunburst patterns, radiator grilles, and zigzag designs, contributing to the rich tapestry of global architecture.

Chrysler Building, New York City

Chrysler Building History

The Chrysler Building's journey began in 1928 when Walter P. Chrysler acquired the site for $2 million. He commissioned architect William Van Alen to design what would briefly become the world's tallest building, surpassing others in the infamous "Race to the Sky." The project kicked off in 1929 and reached completion in 1930, with its famous 125-foot steel spire elevating its height to 1,048 feet . This architectural feat held the title of the tallest building until 1931, when it was overtaken by the Empire State Building .

Chrysler Building Architecture

William Van Alen's innovative design for the Chrysler Building is a quintessential example of Art Deco architecture. Originally intended to reach a height of 807 feet, the design was revised to 925 feet before finally being constructed at 1,046 feet, making it the tallest brick building with a steel framework at the time . The building's facade is adorned with decorative metal cladding and features a terraced crown, which is recognized globally for its Art Deco style .

Chrysler Building Iconic Features

The Chrysler Building is celebrated for its intricate details, which include gargoyles modeled after Chrysler automobile ornaments and radiator caps. The 61st floor boasts eagle gargoyles, while the 31st floor features replicas of the 1929 Chrysler radiator caps . The crown, composed of seven radiating terraced arches, adds to the building's majestic profile and is illuminated beautifully, enhancing its presence in New York City's skyline .

Empire State Building, New York City

Empire State Building History

The Empire State Building, an emblem of architectural achievement, was designed by Shreve, Lamb & Harmon and began construction on March 17, 1930. It stands on the site of the former Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, acquired by Empire State Inc. in 1929. Remarkably, the construction took just over a year, completing on May 1, 1931, a record time that made headlines. Originally intended to be the world's tallest building, it held this title for nearly four decades .

Empire State Building Architecture

This 102-story skyscraper reaches a roof height of 1,250 feet, but with its antenna included, it stands at a majestic 1,454 feet. The building's Art Deco design is not just a visual treat but also a marvel of engineering, featuring a steel frame that was considered innovative at the time of construction. The design includes distinctive Art Deco elements such as the stainless steel canopies at its entrances and the elegantly designed elevator cores, which are highlighted by glass-enclosed bridges .

Empire State Building Iconic Status

As a stalwart symbol of New York City, the Empire State Building has captivated millions with its observatories and iconic spire, which lights up the city's skyline nightly. It’s not just a building but a cultural icon, having appeared in over 250 films and television shows. The building's influence extends globally, often used as a standard to describe the height and size of other structures. It has been recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers and continues to be a must-visit destination for tourists worldwide .

Rockefeller Center, New York City

Rockefeller Center History

Rockefeller Center's story began in 1928 when John D. Rockefeller Jr. leased the land from Columbia University, initially planning to construct a new home for the Metropolitan Opera. However, due to financial constraints during the Great Depression, the plan shifted towards creating the now-famous complex . Construction started in 1931 and the first buildings were completed by 1933, with the entire original complex finished by 1939. This ambitious project not only provided a massive employment boost during the Depression, employing between 40,000 and 60,000 people, but also became a beacon of hope and resilience .

Rockefeller Center Design

Designed by a team led by Raymond Hood, Rockefeller Center is an exemplary model of Art Deco architecture, spanning 22 acres in the heart of Manhattan. The complex includes 19 commercial buildings, with the original 14 Art Deco structures situated between Fifth and Sixth Avenues . Its design features include the iconic 70-floor Comcast Building, originally known as the RCA Building, and the elegant Radio City Music Hall, designed for RCA's radio enterprises like NBC . The area is also renowned for its public artworks and the seasonal ice-skating rink that adds a vibrant cultural layer to its architectural grandeur.

Rockefeller Center Significance

Declared a New York City landmark in 1985 and a National Historic Landmark in 1987, Rockefeller Center is not just an architectural achievement but a symbol of American resilience and innovation . The complex was nearly fully rented by 1941, demonstrating its economic success and desirability among businesses. Its significance extends beyond architecture into cultural realms, hosting major media events and serving as a backdrop in countless films and television shows. The center continues to attract millions of visitors annually, making it a pivotal element of the New York City skyline and an enduring icon of the Art Deco era .

Eastern Columbia Building, Los Angeles

Eastern Columbia Building History

Imagine stepping back to September 12, 1930, when the Eastern Columbia Building first opened its doors. Designed by Claud Beelman, it was constructed in just nine months at a cost of $1.25 million . Initially serving as the headquarters for the Eastern Outfitting and Columbia Outfitting companies, this building not only became a commercial hub but also one of the largest structures in downtown Los Angeles until after WWII .

Eastern Columbia Building Design

The Eastern Columbia Building is a masterpiece of Art Deco architecture, its facade a canvas of vibrant turquoise terra cotta trimmed with deep blue and gold. Standing thirteen stories tall, the building's design includes a wealth of decorative motifs such as sunburst patterns, geometric shapes, and zigzags . The iconic four-sided clock tower, crowned with a central smokestack and surrounded by stylized flying buttresses, makes it a standout feature in the Los Angeles skyline .

Eastern Columbia Building Unique Features

Your attention might first be drawn to the multi-colored terrazzo sidewalks that lay in dynamic patterns of zigzags and chevrons around the building. The main entrance boasts a spectacular two-story vestibule adorned with a blue and gold terra cotta sunburst, leading originally to a pedestrian retail arcade . In 2006, this historic landmark underwent a significant transformation into 140 luxury condominiums, a project that preserved its unique character while adapting it for modern living .

Hoover Building, London

Hoover Building History

Originally designed by Wallis, Gilbert & Partners, the Hoover Building on Western Avenue in Perivale, West London, is a striking example of Art Deco architecture. Opened in 1933, it served as the UK headquarters for the Hoover Company. This iconic structure has seen various transformations throughout its history, from a manufacturing site for vacuum cleaners to its recent conversion into residential apartments .

Hoover Building Architecture

The Hoover Building's architecture is renowned for its Art Deco style, characterized by geometric motifs and vibrant colors. Its facade, featuring a triumphal concrete front and triple-height Crittall windows, captures the essence of the era. The building's original design included a double-height ground floor and a single-storey first floor, which was later expanded to include additional floors and a central hipped roof .

Hoover Building Restoration

The restoration of the Hoover Building was a meticulous process that preserved its historical integrity while adapting it for modern use. The project included the installation of a new timber structure to create additional residential spaces and the restoration of the iconic facade, which had suffered from 'concrete cancer.' This careful conservation has allowed the building to house 66 new apartments, blending historical charm with contemporary living .

Palais de Chaillot, Paris

Palais de Chaillot History

The Palais de Chaillot, nestled atop Chaillot hill in Paris, was architecturally reborn for the 1937 International Exhibition. Originally the site held the Palais du Trocadéro from the 1878 World's Fair. However, in a dramatic transformation, the old structure was partially demolished and integrated into the new design by architects Louis-Hippolyte Boileau, Jacques Carlu, and Léon Azéma. This redesign not only preserved elements of the past but also introduced a modernist flair that aligned with the exhibition's theme of arts and techniques applied to modern life .

Palais de Chaillot Design

Boileau, Carlu, and Azéma crafted the Palais de Chaillot into a stunning example of classicizing "moderne" style. The building features two wings forming a wide arc, echoing the original Trocadéro's layout but with a contemporary twist. The design is enhanced with decorative quotes by Paul Valéry and sculptural groups by notable artists like Raymond Delamarre and Carlo Sarrabezolles, adding layers of artistic depth. Notably, the terrace boasts eight gilded figures representing the Rights of Man, symbolizing universal human values .

Palais de Chaillot Cultural Importance

Beyond its architectural grandeur, the Palais de Chaillot has played a significant role in global history. It was here that Adolf Hitler was famously photographed during his tour of Paris in 1940, and where the U.S. Army celebrated VE Day in 1945. Moreover, the Palais hosted significant events such as the third and sixth United Nations General Assemblies, where the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted in 1948, marking it as a pivotal site in the struggle for human rights. The building also served as the temporary headquarters for NATO, underscoring its importance as a center for international diplomacy and cultural exchange .

Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Brussels

Basilica of the Sacred Heart History

The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart, also known as the Koekelberg Basilica, stands as a testament to the resilience and dedication of Belgium. King Leopold II laid the first stone in 1905 during the 75th anniversary of Belgian independence. The construction faced delays due to the two World Wars and was finally completed in 1970. Originally inspired by the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur in Paris, the basilica was envisioned as a national sanctuary dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus .

Basilica of the Sacred Heart Architecture

This monumental structure is one of the largest Art Deco buildings in the world. Designed by the Ghent architect Albert Van Huffel, it blends Art Deco with neo-Byzantine inspirations. The basilica features two slender towers and a green copper dome that rises 89 meters above the ground, creating a dominant presence in Brussels' north-western skyline . The interior is equally impressive, housing an exceptional collection of art including works by notable artists like Joan Miró and James Ensor .

Basilica of the Sacred Heart Religious Significance

Beyond its architectural grandeur, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart serves as a vibrant religious center. It was here, on June 29, 1919, that King Albert I and a large crowd reaffirmed the promise to build this national sanctuary . The basilica now accommodates up to 3,500 people, standing not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of faith and cultural heritage in the heart of Brussels .

Fairmont Peace Hotel, Shanghai

Fairmont Peace Hotel History

The Fairmont Peace Hotel, a beacon of luxury on Shanghai's famous Bund, has a storied past that dates back to 1929. Originally known as the Sassoon House, it was commissioned by Sir Victor Sassoon, who envisioned a grand edifice that would stand as one of the first high-rise structures in the Eastern Hemisphere . The building, completed in 1929, quickly became a hub for the elite, hosting luminaries such as Charlie Chaplin and George Bernard Shaw .

Fairmont Peace Hotel Design

The design of the Fairmont Peace Hotel is a testament to the architectural innovation of its time, featuring a blend of Gothic Revival and Chicago Commercial styles . The building's facade, adorned with intricate terra cotta detailing, complements its luxurious interiors, which boast Italian marble floors and Lalique glass artwork. The hotel's famous Old Jazz Bar, known for its vibrant music scene, adds to the allure, making it a timeless icon of Shanghai .

Fairmont Peace Hotel Cultural Importance

Beyond its architectural grandeur, the Fairmont Peace Hotel has played a significant role in cultural and historical contexts. It served as a glamorous backdrop for significant political and social gatherings, further cementing its status as a pivotal site in Shanghai's cosmopolitan history . After a meticulous $64 million renovation, the hotel re-emerged in 2010, preserving its heritage while offering modern luxuries, thus continuing to be a symbol of elegance and resilience .

Napier, New Zealand

Napier Art Deco History

Napier, often hailed as the Art Deco Capital of the world, underwent a dramatic transformation after a devastating earthquake in 1931. With a magnitude of 7.8, the quake not only reshaped the landscape but also the architectural identity of the city . In the wake of the disaster, Napier embraced the contemporary Art Deco style, which was in vogue from the 1920s to the 1940s. This era was marked by optimism and a drive towards modernity, a spirit that Napier embodied as it rebuilt itself into the newest city of that time .

Napier Art Deco Architecture

The architectural rejuvenation of Napier was characterized by the Art Deco style, renowned for its geometric shapes and vibrant designs. The cityscape is dotted with buildings featuring streamlined facades, ornamental details, and motifs that reflect both the Maori culture and the influence of iconic architects like Louis Hay . Napier's commitment to this architectural style has resulted in a city that stands as a living museum of the 1930s, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and design .

Napier Art Deco Tourism

Napier's architectural uniqueness has made it a key destination for cultural tourism. Each year, the city celebrates its heritage with the Tremains Art Deco Festival, attracting thousands of visitors eager to experience the 1930s ambiance. This festival not only highlights Napier's architectural beauty but also significantly contributes to the local and national economy, with the 2024 festival injecting millions into the region . The city's ability to preserve its Art Deco heritage while continuing to thrive as a modern community is a testament to the enduring appeal of this architectural style.

Edificio Kavanagh, Buenos Aires

Edificio Kavanagh History

When you gaze upon the Edificio Kavanagh, you're looking at a structure that was the tallest building in Latin America upon its completion in 1936. It was an architectural marvel of its time, boasting the title of the largest reinforced concrete structure globally. The building's inception began with the demolition of houses next to the Hotel Plaza in 1934, orchestrated by the engineer Rodolfo Cervini and architects Sánchez, Lagos, and De la Torre .

Edificio Kavanagh Design

The design of Edificio Kavanagh reflects a blend of rationalist and art deco styles, standing out with its streamlined, ornament-free façade and large prismatic volumes. This 120-meter tall building was a pioneer in integrating luxury with functionality, featuring terrace gardens, a pool, centralized air conditioning, and a state-of-the-art telephone network—cutting-edge technology for the 1930s .

Edificio Kavanagh Significance

Beyond its architectural significance, the Edificio Kavanagh carries a tale of personal vendetta and societal commentary. It was commissioned by Corina Kavanagh, who, driven by a blend of despair and spite against the aristocratic Anchorena family, ensured the building obstructed their view of a cherished church. This act of architectural defiance not only marked a significant point in Buenos Aires's skyline but also symbolized a shift in societal structures, where 'new money' challenged old aristocracy .

Bacardi Building, Havana

Bacardi Building History

The Bacardi Building in Havana, completed in 1930, stands as a testament to the city's vibrant cultural and architectural evolution during the early 20th century. Initially, a Renaissance revival style won the competition organized by Bacardi in 1927, but the final design showcased the Art Deco sensibility, making it a significant marker of modern Havana. This building, an eleven-story art deco tower, became a powerful symbol with its ornate and polychromatic facades, topped by a stepped pyramid and crowned by a bronze Bacardi bat .

Bacardi Building Architecture

Architects Esteban Rodríguez Castells and Rafael Fernández Ruenes crafted a masterpiece that blended civic art with metropolitan ambition. The building's facades are adorned with a variety of materials including granites, marbles, brick, and glazed terra cotta, creating a striking iconography. Inside, visitors are greeted by an unrestrained use of polished stone, brass, etched glass, and gold leaf, offset with precious woods and muted colors. The legendary art deco executive bar became a hub for "experience marketing," attracting celebrities and tourists during Prohibition-era United States .

Bacardi Building Cultural Importance

Beyond its architectural significance, the Bacardi Building has played a pivotal role in Havana's social and cultural scenes. Originally serving as Bacardi's headquarters, the building also rented out most of its space, maintaining vibrant public rooms and a legendary cocktail bar on the first floor and mezzanine. These spaces became central to Bacardi's operations, especially catering to the American clientele during U.S. Prohibition, making it a must-visit landmark in Havana .

Cardozo Hotel, Miami Beach

Cardozo Hotel History

Built in 1939 and named after Benjamin Cardozo, a pioneering Jewish jurist on the U.S. Supreme Court, the Cardozo Hotel has been a staple on Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Its history is marked by a significant transformation in 2019 under the ownership of Gloria and Emilio Estefan, who reintroduced the hotel with a contemporary yet historically respectful makeover .

Cardozo Hotel Design

The architectural design of Cardozo Hotel is the brainchild of Henry Hohauser, a prominent figure in Art Deco architecture. The hotel is renowned for its rounded lines reminiscent of a Studebaker's fender, and its facade features keystone trim crafted from dyed porous limestone, presenting a classic Art Deco appearance .

Cardozo Hotel South Beach Significance

Cardozo's significance extends beyond its architecture. It has been a backdrop for several Hollywood films, including A Hole in the Head (1959), There's Something About Mary (1998), and Any Given Sunday (1999), showcasing its cultural and cinematic importance . Additionally, the hotel has evolved with the region, from its days featuring a simple porch setup in the 1970s to becoming a vibrant hub of Miami Beach's Art Deco District, reflecting the area's dynamic social and cultural evolution .

Daily Express Building, Manchester

Daily Express Building History

The Daily Express Building on Great Ancoats Street in Manchester, a Grade II* listed building, was designed by Sir Owen Williams and completed in 1939. Serving as one of the three Daily Express offices, this building is renowned for its avant-garde appearance, often mistaken for being much younger due to its futuristic design. It was during the 1930s that the Daily Express, under the ownership of Max Aitken, Lord Beaverbrook, became the most circulated newspaper in the world, prompting the need for this and similar buildings in London and Glasgow to accommodate its growth .

Daily Express Building Architecture

This building is a prime example of the streamline moderne movement, a style of Art Deco architecture characterized by horizontal lines and curved corners. Clad in opaque and vitrolite glass, it was considered highly radical for its time. The design features typical Art Deco motifs like rounded corners and a simple contrasting clear and black glass curtain wall, which were innovative during the late 1930s. The building's architecture has been highly praised for its elegance and has influenced notable architects, including Norman Foster .

Daily Express Building Industrial Significance

Originally, the Daily Express Building allowed passersby to view the large newspaper printing presses through its windows, symbolizing openness and transparency. However, during renovations in the 1990s, the glass was made reflective, which symbolically closed off the building from the public eye. Despite ceasing print media production by the end of the 1980s and undergoing several rebuilds, the building maintains its architectural integrity and continues to be a significant marker of industrial history in Manchester .

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Umaid Bhawan Palace History

Commissioned by Maharaja Umaid Singhji during a severe drought, Umaid Bhawan Palace was a visionary project that began in 1929 and concluded in 1943. It provided critical employment to approximately 3,000 farmers, alleviating the economic strain caused by the drought . The palace's construction was also a response to a prophesied period of hardship following the prosperous reign of the Rathore Dynasty .

Umaid Bhawan Palace Design

Designed by Henry Lanchester, the palace is a stunning amalgamation of Art Deco and Renaissance influences, sprawling over 26 acres. Its distinctive honey sandstone facade and majestic architecture incorporate features inspired by global and Indian styles, including a central dome and intricate carvings that showcase the Rajputana design . Notably, the palace integrates eco-friendly elements, such as a natural ventilation system that adeptly manages the extreme temperatures of Jodhpur .

Umaid Bhawan Palace Cultural Importance

Umaid Bhawan is not just a residence but a living museum and a luxury hotel managed by Taj Hotels. The museum within the palace houses an extensive collection of artifacts, offering insights into the regal lifestyle . The palace continues to be a venue for high-profile events and has maintained its cultural significance, with the royal family, including Maharaja Gaj Singh II, still residing in a section of the palace .

Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, Paris

Théâtre des Champs-Élysées History

The Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, a beacon of cultural heritage in Paris, was commissioned by impresario Gabriel Astruc and constructed between 1911 and 1913. Designed by the innovative architects Auguste Perret and Gustave Perret, under the initial guidance of Henry van de Velde, it became the city's first edifice showcasing Art Deco architecture . This venue, situated at 15 avenue Montaigne, near the prestigious Avenue des Champs-Élysées, quickly became renowned for its groundbreaking use of reinforced concrete, necessary due to the subsoil conditions and proximity to the Seine .

Théâtre des Champs-Élysées Architecture

The architecture of the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées is notable for its radical departure from Art Nouveau, embracing rectangular forms, straight lines, and external decorations on marble and stucco plaques . The building includes exquisite works such as an exterior bas relief by Antoine Bourdelle, a dome by Maurice Denis, and various other artworks by prominent artists like Édouard Vuillard and Jacqueline Marval, adding layers of artistic depth to its structure .

Théâtre des Champs-Élysées Cultural Significance

Over the years, the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées has been a pivotal cultural venue, hosting the infamous premiere of the Ballets Russes' "Rite of Spring" in 1913, which famously incited one of classical music's most notorious riots . Today, it remains a vital cultural hub, offering a variety of performances including opera, recitals, and orchestral concerts, and serves as a home venue for the Orchestre National de France and the Orchestre Lamoureux . The theatre's role in the arts is further highlighted by its depiction in several films, underscoring its iconic status within both the cinematic and performing arts communities .

Conclusion

Embarking on a tour through the world's most illustrious Art Deco edifices has not only been a journey back in time but also an exploration of how architecture mirrors societal shifts and artistic innovation. From the bustling streets of New York City with its iconic Chrysler and Empire State buildings to the vibrant hues of the Eastern Columbia Building in Los Angeles, each structure we've delved into stands as a testament to the era it represents. These buildings, with their unique amalgamation of geometric precision, opulent detail, and technological advancement, reflect the unyielding spirit of the early 20th century, aiming for the skies both literally and metaphorically.

As we draw this exploration to a close, it’s clear that Art Deco architecture does more than just catch the eye; it invites us to ponder the stories etched into its facades and the relentless ambition of those who built them. These structures are not merely inanimate stones and mortar; they are cultural beacons that continue to inspire and shape our understanding of aesthetic and structural possibilities. Whether it's through the lens of a camera, the pages of a history book, or the firsthand awe of standing at their feet, the legacy of Art Deco architecture endures, challenging us to dream big and bold for the future. So, what structures will our current era leave behind, and how will they be remembered? Only time will tell, but for now, we cherish and draw inspiration from these monumental achievements of human creativity and vision.

FAQs

What are the most iconic Art Deco buildings globally?
The Rockefeller Center in New York City, noted for its interiors designed by Donald Deskey and constructed between 1929 and 1940, along with the Chrysler Building by William Van Alen, and the Empire State Building by Shreve, Lamb & Harmon, stand as the most significant Art Deco structures worldwide.

Which Art Deco artwork is the most renowned?
The painting "Autoportrait (Tamara in a Green Bugatti)" from 1929 by the Polish artist Tamara De Lempicka is one of the most famous Art Deco artworks.

Which American city is renowned for its Art Deco architecture?
New York City is particularly famous for its Art Deco architecture, which flourished in the 1920s and 1930s. Noteworthy examples include the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and Rockefeller Center.

Which city is considered the Art Deco capital of the world?
Napier is recognized as the Art Deco capital of the world.