Streamline Moderne, also known as Art Moderne, was a popular architectural style that emerged in the 1930s and 1940s, primarily in the United States. It was influenced by various design movements, including Art Deco and the sleek aerodynamic shapes of transportation design. While lighting design was not the primary focus of Streamline Moderne, there were still some notable innovations in lighting that emerged during this period. Here are a few examples:
1. Integration of concealed lighting: Streamline Moderne emphasized clean lines and smooth surfaces. To maintain the sleek and streamlined appearance, lighting fixtures were often concealed or integrated within architectural elements. Cove lighting, where light sources are hidden in the horizontal spaces such as cornices or valances, became popular to provide indirect illumination without visible fixtures.
2. Tubular lighting: Streamline Moderne buildings often featured curved and rounded shapes, reminiscent of modern transportation design. To echo these aesthetic elements, tubular lighting fixtures became popular. These fixtures consisted of long cylindrical or curved tubes that contained the light source. They seamlessly complemented the curved architecture and reinforced the streamlined look.
3. Flush-mounted fixtures: Flush-mounted lighting fixtures, where the light source is recessed into the ceiling or the wall, became popular during the Streamline Moderne era. These fixtures helped maintain a clean and uncluttered look, contributing to the overall aesthetic of simplicity and smoothness.
4. Sleek pendant and chandelier designs: While the Streamline Moderne style sought to simplify design, it did not completely forego decorative lighting fixtures. Pendant lights and chandeliers in this architectural style often featured streamlined and geometric designs, echoing the modern aesthetic of the era. These fixtures were typically made of reflective materials like chrome or glass to enhance the overall brightness and create a striking visual impact.
5. Innovative use of glass blocks: Glass blocks were introduced and widely used during the Streamline Moderne period. They allowed natural light to enter interiors while maintaining privacy. The translucency of glass blocks also created a soft and diffused lighting effect. These blocks were often incorporated into building facades or interior partitions, introducing a unique element of light diffusion and expression.
It's important to note that while these innovations in lighting design were utilized in Streamline Moderne buildings, the style itself was more focused on architectural form, minimalism, and the streamlined aesthetic. Nevertheless, these lighting design elements helped enhance the overall visual impact and experience of these buildings.
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