1930s Art Deco Wardrobe
A 1930s art deco wardrobe brings bold geometric lines and rich figuring to a bedroom, offering substantial storage with genuine period character.
1930s Art Deco Wardrobe
When you search for a 1930s art deco wardrobe, you encounter substantial storage furniture designed during the interwar period. These pieces range from tall single-door cabinets to expansive multi-door wardrobes and fitted compactums.
The most common examples on this page are double and triple wardrobes constructed from walnut or burr walnut. Alongside these, you find tallboys, bedroom suites, and specialised cabinets with fitted interiors.
Originating largely from English workshops, these pieces embody the sleek architectural sensibility of the era. They serve as functional bedroom storage while displaying the distinct decorative priorities of 1930s design.
What varies in quality
Quality in these wardrobes rests largely on the choice and matching of wood veneers. The most accomplished pieces feature symmetrical burr walnut or birds eye maple figuring that wraps fluidly across multiple doors.
Construction standards also distinguish standard production from premier workshops. Fitted interiors with specialised compartments and branded maker signatures separate exceptional commissions from ordinary utility pieces.
Some compactum wardrobes include specialised compartments originally designated for gentlemen's collars and ladies' gloves.
Frank Taylor & Co.·Heal's·B Cohen & Sons·Harry and Lou Epstein·Otto Schulz·Waring & Gillow
The 1930s Art Deco Wardrobe Glossary
- Compactum
- A multi-compartment wardrobe combining hanging space, shelving, and internal drawers. It offers versatile storage within a single cabinet footprint.
- Tallboy
- A tall chest of drawers or a combination of drawers and a small cupboard. It maximises vertical storage capacity in rooms with limited floor space.
- Marquetry
- The art of applying pieces of veneer to a structure to form decorative patterns and pictures. It appears on select bedroom suites for added ornamentation.
- Breakfront
- A cabinet design where the central section projects forward from the flanking doors. This architectural feature creates depth and shadow on large wardrobe facades.
1930s Art Deco Wardrobe: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right size wardrobe?
Measure your available floor space and ceiling height carefully before selecting a double or triple wardrobe. Consider internal configurations like hanging rails and fitted drawers to ensure the piece meets your storage needs.
Larger triple wardrobes and compactums require substantial wall space and clearance for opening doors. Single tallboys offer a more compact alternative for smaller rooms while retaining period character.
What is the difference between a wardrobe and a compactum?
A standard wardrobe focuses primarily on vertical hanging space behind full-length doors. These pieces suit garments that require long drops.
A compactum integrates hanging space with internal drawers, shelves, and specialist compartments within one unit. This hybrid design provides diverse storage options for folded clothing and accessories.
How do I care for walnut veneer surfaces?
Keep walnut veneer wardrobes away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent the wood from fading and the veneer from drying out. Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth.
Avoid using silicone sprays or harsh chemical polishes. Occasional application of a traditional beeswax helps nourish the wood and maintain its natural lustre.