The classic Hollywood Regency style made popular in the 1930s is making a modern-day comeback. See why this luxe style is gaining a new cult following and learn how to combine lacquer, mirrors, and rich fabrics to bring the look home.
Hollywood Regency is an eclectic design aesthetic that combines luxurious materials with Asian-influenced accents. According to interior designer Sabina Vavra, the style is a throwback to old Hollywood glamour, on- and off-camera. “Marked by mirrored accents, lacquer, chrome accents, chintz, velvets and bolder colors, it showcases Georgian and Regency-styled pieces mixed with modern flair,” Vavra says, “It’s all about fringes, flair and details. It’s glamorous through and through.”
Renowned designers like Billy Haines, Elsie de Wolfe and Dorothy Draper are responsible for catapulting Hollywood Regency style into the limelight back in the 1930s. According to Vavra, decorating with black and whites, geometric patterns and blocks of color in acid yellows are all iconic features of the Hollywood Regency look. Other common accessories are zebra rugs, mirrored surfaces, Chippendale bamboo chairs, and faux furs next to high-gloss lacquered pieces. These are all “reminiscent of the high drama look that has been so popular in the past few years,” Vavra says.
While Haines and Draper may have inspired the original Hollywood glamour movement, contemporary designers are evolving the look with a modern spin. Kelly Wearstler is quickly becoming a rising star in the design community with her dazzling plans for the Viceroy Santa Monica. Jonathan Adler’s whimsical pottery and lacquer pieces offer a playful interpretation of the glamour era. Even handy DIYers are hacking furniture to create Dorothy Draper-inspired pieces. A few years ago the blogosphere blew up as crafty bloggers attempted to recreate the Dorothy Draper Espana dresser.
What are some of the characteristics of Hollywood Regency style? Designer Cathy Hobbs breaks it down for us.
High sheen
Hobbs says that Hollywood Regency style frequently includes glossy materials like lacquer or paints. “From tabletop surfaces and painted floors to accessory items like patent leather or lamp shades, adding high-gloss surfaces is one way to achieve a signature Hollywood Regency look,” she explains.
Tactile materials
Hobbs tells us that plush materials that engage our tactile senses are particularly important in this decorating style. This can include luxe velvets, shag area rugs and fringe details.
Decorating with rugs >>
Reflective surfaces
Shiny surfaces are crucial for capturing Hollywood glamour. “Not only are mirrors important, but often pieces that are ‘mirror on mirror’ play a key role in these interiors, such as side tables and desks,” Hobbs says. Metallics like chrome and gold also add an extra jolt of glitz.
Creating a mirror accent wall >>
Use of black and white
One of the more easily recognizable characteristics of Hollywood Regency style is the classic pairing of black and white colors. “Yes, black and white are colors,” Hobbs notes. She considers it a classic foundation for the decorating style. “There is nothing quite as pure, timeless and versatile as decorating using black and white.” The combination is frequently found in stripes, checkerboard and diamond patterns.
Opulent furniture
Hobbs equates Hollywood Regency style as “modern-day rococo.” The style include oversize mirrors and large-scale furniture. Decorative embellishments like tufts, shiny nailheads and tassels might also be used. “Think opulence, ornate and over the top,” Hobbs declares.
Shop the look: Hollywood Regency style
This Morgan Lounge (Reagan Hayes) is a subtle nod to the look with a modern interpretation. Mirrors are a must for proper Hollywood glamour, so deck the walls with an ornate mirror or try a mirrored side table (Pottery Barn). Ground the floor with a black-and-white patterned rug — we like classic stripes or a diamond patterned rug (Wayfair.com) for a playful yet sophisticated look. Luxe velvet curtains (Amazon.com) give window treatments an upgrade. Lacquered furniture and pops of yellow are commonly found in Hollywood Regency style; this lacquered hourglass side table (Bungalow 5) combines both trends in one package. If you prefer a softer, feminine look, leave out the bright pops of color.
Whether you’re going all out in creating an homage to Dorothy Draper or simply want to up the glitz factor with a few mirrors and lacquered accessories, decorating with Hollywood Regency style will turn your loving home into a glamorous retreat.
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