Art deco architecture in New York, 1920-1940

Don Vlack

Between the two World Wars there was a period of intense building in New York City in what is now known as the Art Deco style. While most people are aware of this style as exemplified by Rockefeller Center and the Chrysler Building, it is not so widely known that it included all types of structures-office buildings, apartments, stores, hotels, warehouses, banks, schools, hospitals, theaters, even a zoo. Art Deco architecture was ornamental; it was widespread; and here in text and 184 photographs of buildings, details of buildings, exteriors and interiors is the extraordinary dimension of this styles, which is a fascinating chapter in New York's constantly changing architectural scene. Don Black traces the origins of Art Deco architecture in New York historically from Art Nouveau through Cubism, Futurism, Expressionism, and the International Style indicating the influence of Antonio Sant' Elia, Eric Mendelsohn, and Frank Lloyd Wright. With photographs layed directly to the text, the book shows architectural stylistic devices and the often striking decorative motifs and symbols of the Art Deco style: it covers the different materials used and the different building functions. And, in conclusion, the book tells of the unique integration and relationship between industrial techniques and quality workmanship on a craft level that existed in the architecture of this style and period.