Art Deco Upholstery Fabric: A Guide to Gilbert and Geometric Pattern

Art Deco upholstery fabric uses the bold geometry of the 1920s and 1930s: symmetry, stepped forms and strong repeating lines. Our Gilbert collection is drawn from surviving 1933 master works, with references to Derry & Toms and Biba, and is printed in England on recycled velvet (£179 per metre) and natural linen (£159 per metre). Alongside it, Penrose Prowl brings a geometric, Bauhaus-leaning tiger. Here is how to choose and use them.

What makes a fabric Art Deco?

Art Deco pattern is graphic rather than delicate. It relies on symmetry, repetition and contrast, with motifs that read clearly from across a room. That is why it suits upholstery: a strong repeat holds its shape on a curved chair back or a deep sofa.

The Gilbert collection

Gilbert is bold and graphic, and comes in six versions, each in velvet and linen:

• Gilbert No. 99 in inky navy

• Gilbert Boardroom in tobacco brown

• Gilbert King's Road in clay orange

• Gilbert Bromsgrove in sage green

• Gilbert Butter in warm yellow

• Gilbert Derry in toasted butter

Bauhaus and geometric: Penrose Prowl

Where Gilbert looks back to Art Deco London, Penrose Prowl takes its geometry from Escher's Penrose stairs, with a tiger set into the architecture. The Bauhaus colourway, in midnight blue, cream and crimson, is the most graphic; Champagne and Albinae are quieter. It comes in recycled velvet, patterned linen and pure silk jacquard.

Using Art Deco fabric at home

• Choose curved pieces. Tub chairs, rounded sofas and Circle dining chairs suit Deco geometry because the pattern follows the form.

• Pair pattern with plain. One patterned sofa or a set of dining chairs against plain walls lets the geometry lead.

• Pick up a metal finish. Brass, nickel or bronze details echo the period without turning the room into a pastiche.

• Use linen for curtains. It gives a softer, flatter version of the same design.

Art Deco upholstery fabric: common questions

Is Art Deco fabric suitable for upholstery?

Yes. Gilbert and Penrose Prowl velvets are made for upholstery, curtains and cushions; the linens suit curtains and lighter upholstery.

Where is it made?

Designed by Patience & Gough and printed to order in England.

How much does it cost?

Velvet is £179 per metre, patterned linen £159 per metre and silk jacquard £420 per metre.

Can I order a sample?

Yes. Every colourway is available as a sample from our fabric samples page.

Is Penrose Prowl Art Deco or Bauhaus?

It sits between the two: Deco in its love of pattern, Bauhaus in its geometry and its Bauhaus colourway. See all patterned velvet.