Art Deco is cool again — that is after a century of its heyday.
The influential style was introduced in 1925 at the International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts in Paris, and it quickly spread around the world — including Winston-Salem.
The signature style includes bold geometric shapes, luxurious materials with an aesthetic design. After all, we are the City of Arts and Innovation. Here are some of our favorite Art Deco style in the Twin City.
RJ Reynolds Building
If you notice similarities between this iconic building and the Empire State Building in NY, you’re not making things up. Architects Shreve and Lamb created this design in Winston-Salem before replicating in it the Big Apple. The Reynolds building won the 1984 Art Deco Society of New York award for best restoration.
The industrial design at the Brookstown Inn gives a retro appearance to the building.
Photo Courtesy of Visit Winston-Salem
Nissen Building
Built in 1927, this building was first home to Nissen Wagon Works — a booming company in Winston-Salem before the rise of the tobacco industry. The Neo-Classical design features decorative elements similar to classical temples. Its proportionally rectangular shape balances both modern and Art Deco style.
Brookstown Inn
This historic boutique hotel was once a flour mill and one of the first southern factories to use electric lighting. Manufacturer and businessman Francis Fries built the space which later served as a storage warehouse. Today, its vibrant and decorative interior showcases Art Deco style while maintaining its historic charm.
Do you know if any other building in Winston-Salem that exudes the Art Deco style? Let us know.
