1925 was the year of the Exposition internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels in Paris, the consecration of the Art Deco style in the midst of a crazily creative era.

La cité de l’architecture et du patrimoine is holding the first ever French retrospective to show how art nouveau evolved into a more geometric style that was expressed through architecture and all kinds of design, with Paris as one of the main centres of creation…What a great idea organising this exhibition about Art Deco in the Palais de Chaillot building, itself a masterpiece of art deco architecture (although there are many others in Paris, such as the Rex and Louxor cinemas, and the Samaritaine building designed by Henri Sauvage).

The exhibition shows how technological advances and a driving desire for the modern allowed art deco to become an international success visible in architecture, interior design and furnishing, and even the cruise liners and cars of the era (that you’ll be able to see close up).

This was also the time that the modern woman made her first appearance, often shown as a tomboy that smoked, drove cars or piloted ‘planes, always looking impeccably stylish. These were the Golden Twenties that followed the First World War, with everyone celebrating peace and the effervescence of life, and Paris was at the centre of the movement – many of the city’s architects and decorators were in demand around the world.

And if you want to expand your knowledge even further after the exhibition, there are guided visits on offer, kids workshops, a selection of films and an official catalogue available in paperback and hardback.

The exhbition 1925, quand l’Art Déco séduit le monde (when Art Deco dazzled the world) is at the Cité de l’architecture et du patrimoine (here) from 16th October 2013 – 3rd March 2014

Open every day except Tuesdays from 11am – 7pm (9pm Thursdays). Last ticket 45 minutes before closing. Closed Xmas day and 1st January

Admission: 9€ / 6€, ad for just 3€ more you can see the permanent collection too (a bargain)

Official site: www.citechaillot.fr

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Our visit to the Cité de l’architecture et du patrimoine: here