Welcome to our online platform dedicated to practical and fast tools! If you are looking for solutions to optimize your investments, spark your creativity with inspiring moodboards, or enhance your decor knowledge through an interactive quiz, you've come to the right place. Our intuitive and accessible tools let you transform your ideas into reality with just a few clicks. Discover a modern and efficient interface designed to simplify your daily routine and meet all your creative and financial needs.
These online tools have been designed to meet a variety of needs by combining innovation with practicality. They include:
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Investment feature
To manage and optimize your financial investments. Our rental investment simulator is an interactive tool designed to help you assess the profitability of your real estate investments. With its intuitive interface, simply input your financial, financing, rental, and tax parameters to receive a detailed analysis of your project. View the outcomes through dynamic charts and amortization tables, and discover the best strategies to optimize your property resale for maximum returns.
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Mood board interface
To stimulate your creativity and visualize design inspirations. Our online moodboard generator is the perfect tool to create inspiring visual compositions. Easily add products and color blocks, arrange your ideas with drag-and-drop functionality, and resize each element for the perfect layout. With its intuitive design and multilingual features, this tool sparks creativity and simplifies the planning of visual projects, whether in design, fashion, or interior decoration.
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Interactive decor quiz
To test and enhance your knowledge in decoration. This tool is an interactive and intuitive quiz designed to help you determine your decorating style by answering 14 simple questions. Each answer helps to identify your dominant style among 12 options (Scandinavian, Industrial, Vintage, Modern, Minimalist, Bohemian, Rustic, Art Deco, Contemporary, Classic, Tropical, Mediterranean). At the end of the quiz, you receive not only your personalized result but also tailored product recommendations from the Techneb catalog—all available in five languages.
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Encyclopedia of Decorating Styles
Discover the world of interior design with our Interactive Encyclopedia of Decorating Styles, an innovative tool that combines modern design and intuitive functionality. Immerse yourself in 24 unique styles, from the elegance of modern to the warmth of rustic chic, and be inspired by exclusive product selections from the Maison Techneb boutique. Thanks to a dynamic and multilingual interface, easily explore each decorative universe, navigate between rich and detailed inspirations, and directly access the creations that will transform your interior into an exceptional space. Let yourself be seduced by this immersive experience which combines the art of design with the practicality of an interactive tool designed for decoration enthusiasts.
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Maison Techneb lighting calculator
Discover our tailor-made lighting calculation tool designed to help you create the perfect ambiance in every room of your home. Whether you want to create a bright living room, a warm bedroom or a functional office, our calculator provides you with a precise estimate of the lighting required based on the surface area, use and desired style. Easily compare the recommended Techneb lighting products to optimize your visual comfort and enhance your interior. Improve your decoration with suitable lighting that combines aesthetics and performance. Test our tool now for personalized and effective lighting!
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Color Palette Generator
Generate a harmonious color palette and inspire your interior design with our online tool. Select a base shade, automatically discover complementary combinations and access matching Techneb furniture and decorative objects. Ideal for individuals or professionals, this generator makes it easier to choose colors for your design projects, by offering you trendy ideas and suitable decorative products.
Introduction:
Since the early 20th century, two major interior design movements have made their mark with distinctive styles and lasting influence: Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern. Art Deco, flourishing in the 1920s and 1930s, is known for its bold geometric shapes, luxurious materials, and rich colors. Rooted in the 1925 International Exhibition of Decorative Arts in Paris, it was represented by figures such as Erté, René Lalique, and Gio Ponti. Mid-Century Modern, emerging mid-century, is characterized by clean lines, functionality, and a connection to nature. Influenced by designers like Alvar Aalto, Charles & Ray Eames, and Arne Jacobsen, this style became a timeless classic, still appreciated today for its simple and elegant aesthetic.
Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern:
Mid-Century Modern, which emerged in the mid-20th century, is characterized by clean lines, functionality, and a connection to nature. Art Deco, flourishing in the 1920s and 1930s, stands out with bold geometric forms, luxurious materials, and rich colors. Several articles explore the history, key principles, important designers, and contemporary influence of these iconic styles in architecture and interior design.
Detailed Timeline of Key Events
- 14th to 17th Century: The Renaissance period in Europe, beginning in Italy (Florence), marks a cultural, artistic, and intellectual transformation, with a renewed interest in classical antiquity and human experience.
- 17th Century: Mention of palaces built in India with sculptures illustrating ancient texts and events, possibly reflecting interior design principles.
- Late 19th Century: Birth of Georges Lepape in Paris, future pioneer of Art Deco fashion illustration.
- Late 19th Century: Japonisme, the influence of Japanese art, spreads in Europe and transforms Western art.
- 1880s to Present: Development of the Tropical style in interior design, blending British elements with occupied territories (India, the Caribbean).
- 1892: Birth of Romain de Tirtoff ("Erté"), a major artist and designer in Art Deco.
- Early 20th Century: Emergence of the Art Deco style in visual arts, characterized by glamour, luxury, and order.
- Early 1900s: Interior designs become more masculine, particularly due to the presence of a king on the throne.
- Around 1915: Erté creates his first cover for "Harper's Bazaar," marking the start of a long collaboration and his recognition in Art Deco fashion illustration.
- 1918-1940: The Art Deco period (not a single movement), reaching its peak in the mid-1920s.
- 1918-1950: The Modern design period, focusing on clean interiors and bold primary colors.
- 1919: Georges Lepape's first cover for "Vanity Fair."
- 1920s: Art Deco gains popularity, characterized by impressive furniture and architecture. Mediterranean style rises in interior design, evoking European coastal countries.
- 1920-1934: The Bauhaus period, founded by German architect Walter Gropius, advocating minimalist, functional design.
- 1925: The International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts in Paris marks the origin of the Art Deco movement. The beginning of the Surrealist period (until 1930) influences art and potentially interior design. Erté begins his career as a costume and set designer for Hollywood films, starting with the silent film "Paris."
- Mid-1920s: The peak of Art Deco. The character of Jay Gatsby in American literature becomes a symbol of this era.
- 1928: Gio Ponti founds the magazine "Domus," dedicated to architecture, art, and design. Lalique commemorates the 10th anniversary of the end of World War I with the "Victoire" (Spirit of the Wind), an Art Deco hood ornament.
- 1930s to Present: The Mid-Century Modern period, characterized by clean lines, organic forms, and integration with nature.
- Early 1930s: Alvar Aalto develops wood bending techniques, demonstrated by the Paimio chair (circa 1930).
- Mid-1930s: Georges Lepape is regarded as the most brilliant artist of "Vogue."
- 1935: The launch of the SS Normandie ocean liner, dubbed the "Floating Temple of Art Deco," for which Lalique creates major decorative works, including in the first-class dining room.
- Post-World War II: Interiors become more utilitarian due to rationing and less opulence.
- Mid-20th Century (1940-1960s): The rise of Mid-Century Modern in the U.S., influenced by German designers who emigrated after World War II. New materials such as fiberglass and molded plywood are used.
- Late 1940s: Hans J. Wegner launches the Wishbone chair (1949). Charles and Ray Eames design the Eames House (Case Study House No. 8). Eero Saarinen designs the Tulip chair (late 1950s).
- 1950s to Present: The development of the Transitional style, combining traditional and modern elements.
- 1960s: The design of David Hicks becomes popular, characterized by unexpected mixes of colors and styles.
- 1970s: David Hicks begins producing wallpaper, fabrics, and linens under his name.
- 1978 to Present: The Postmodernism period, reacting against the perceived monotony of Modernism, with Ettore Sottsass as a key figure.
- 1980s: The term "Mid-Century Modern" is coined by author Cara Greenberg. New design philosophies, such as the Memphis Design School, gain popularity.
- 1990s: The launch of HGTV (Home and Garden Television), influencing millions of viewers' interior design choices. Frequent use of Mid-Century Modern furniture in advertisements contributes to its resurgence.
- 1994: Launch of HGTV.
Key Figures and Brief Biographies
- Alvar Aalto: (1898-1976) Finnish architect and designer, a major figure in Mid-Century Modern and Scandinavian modernism. Known for his wood-bending techniques and organic, functional designs (e.g., Paimio chair). Often referred to as the "father of modernism" in Scandinavian countries.
- Arne Jacobsen: (1902-1971) Danish architect and designer, an iconic figure in Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern. Known for functional and aesthetic design (e.g., SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen).
- Bethan Gray: Contemporary British furniture designer. Collaborated with EJ Victor to create a cabinet influenced by Art Deco.
- Billy Baldwin: (1903-1983) Influential American interior designer, preferring the term "decorator" over "designer." Known for his practical approach, emphasizing a room’s "good bones," quality, and comfort. Worked for notable clients like Cole Porter, Jackie O., and Diana Vreeland.
- Cara Greenberg: American author who coined the term "Mid-Century Modern" in the 1980s with her book on 1950s furniture.
- Carl Hansen: Danish furniture manufacturer for whom Hans J. Wegner designed the Wishbone chair.
- Charles Eames: (1907-1978) American designer, architect, and filmmaker, a key figure in Mid-Century Modern with his wife Ray Eames. Pioneers in using new materials and manufacturing techniques for furniture.
- Claire J.: Person who left a review on interior design work, mentioned in the "Past Jobs" section.
- Cole Porter: (1891-1964) Famous American composer and lyricist, a client of Billy Baldwin for renovations of his apartment at the Waldorf Towers.
- Darren Palmer: A personality associated with IDI USA (Interior Design Institute USA), possibly an instructor or influential figure.
- David Hicks: (1929-1998) Influential English interior designer of the 1960s. Known for his bold mixes of colors, patterns, and styles. Worked for royalty and launched his own line of home decor products.
- Diana Vreeland: (1903-1989) Influential fashion editor, a client of Billy Baldwin for the decoration of her New York apartment.
- Dikran Seferian: Author of an article on Renaissance design.
- Donatello: (c. 1386-1466) Italian sculptor of the Renaissance, a major figure in the art of this period.
- Eero Saarinen: (1910-1961) Finnish-American architect and designer, a central figure in Mid-Century Modern. Known for his sculptural approach to furniture and architecture (e.g., Tulip chair, Gateway Arch in St. Louis).
- Eileen Gray: (1878-1976) Irish architect and furniture designer, associated with the modernist movement.
- EJ Victor: Furniture brand that collaborated with Bethan Gray on a collection influenced by Art Deco.
- Erté (Romain de Tirtoff): (1892-1990) Russian-born French artist and designer, a major figure in Art Deco. Famous for his fashion illustrations for "Harper's Bazaar," costume and set designs for theater and film.
- Ettore Sottsass: (1917-2007) Italian architect and designer, a key figure in the Postmodernism movement. Known for his vibrant designs and bold use of color.
- F. Scott Fitzgerald: (1896-1940) American writer, author of "The Great Gatsby," whose main character became a symbol of the wealth and lifestyle of the Art Deco era (Roaring Twenties).
- Frank Lloyd Wright: (1867-1959) Influential American architect, a pioneer of organic architecture, who influenced the Mid-Century Modern movement.
- Fromental: A company specializing in luxury wall coverings, offering wallpapers inspired by Art Deco.
- George Nelson: (1908-1986) Influential American designer of the Mid-Century Modern movement, known for his contributions to furniture, architecture, and industrial design.
- Georges Lepape: (1887-1971) French fashion illustrator, a pioneer of Art Deco. Worked for major fashion houses like Paul Poiret and magazines like "Vogue" and "Vanity Fair."
- Gio Ponti: (1891-1979) Italian architect, industrial designer, furniture creator, and editor. Founder of the "Domus" magazine and creator of the Superleggera chair.
- Hans J. Wegner: (1914-2007) Danish furniture designer, a major figure in Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern. Known for his craftsmanship and iconic chair designs (e.g., Wishbone chair).
- Herbert Matter: (1907-1984) Swiss-American graphic designer and photographer, known for his work in advertising design, especially for Knoll (e.g., advertisement for the Tulip chair).
- Hilary Jane: Student from IDI USA (Interior Design Institute USA) who created Art Deco-style mood boards.
- Isabel: Wallpaper expert working for "Wallpaper from the 70s."
- Isamu Noguchi: (1904-1988) Japanese-American sculptor and designer whose eclectic work includes Mid-Century Modern furniture.
- Jackie O (Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis): (1929-1994) Former First Lady of the United States, a client of Billy Baldwin for the decoration of her property in Skorpios.
- Jay Gatsby: The main character in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel "The Great Gatsby," which became a symbol of the wealth and lifestyle of the Art Deco era (Roaring Twenties).
- Joan Crawford: (1904-1977) Famous American actress, a client of Erté for costume designs.
- Josephine Baker: (1906-1975) American-born French dancer and singer, a client of Erté for costume designs.
- King Fahd of Saudi Arabia: (1921-2005) Former King of Saudi Arabia, a client of David Hicks for the decoration of a nightclub on a cruise ship and a yacht.
- Lalique (René Lalique): (1860-1945) Renowned French glassmaker and jeweler, a major figure in Art Nouveau and Art Deco. Famous for his glass creations, including the "Victoire" hood ornament and decorative elements for the SS Normandie.
- Le Corbusier (Charles-Édouard Jeanneret): (1887-1965) Swiss-French architect and designer, a pioneer of modern architecture.
- Leonardo da Vinci: (1452-1519) Italian artist, scientist, and inventor of the Renaissance, an iconic figure of this period.
- Lillian Gish: (1893-1993) American silent and talkie film actress, a client of Erté for costume designs.
- Lucas Zeiner: Stained glass painter from Basel (Renaissance), whose work shows similarities with Renaissance heraldic motifs.
- Marcel Breuer: (1902-1981) Hungarian-American architect and designer, associated with the Bauhaus and the modernist movement.
- Mata Hari (Margaretha Geertruida Zelle): (1876-1917) Famous exotic dancer and spy, a client of Erté for costume designs.
- Max Ernst: (1891-1976) German painter and sculptor, a major figure in the Surrealist movement.
- Michelangelo (Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni): (1475-1564) Italian sculptor, painter, architect, and poet of the Renaissance, an iconic figure of this period.
- Oscar Niemeyer: (1907-2012) Brazilian architect, a major figure in modern architecture.
- Pablo Picasso: (1881-1973) Spanish painter and sculptor, a dominant figure in 20th-century art, influencing Art Deco motifs.
- Paul: A person who left reviews on interior design work, mentioned in the "Past Jobs" section.
- Paul Poiret: (1879-1944) Influential French couturier, a pioneer of haute couture, for whom Georges Lepape started his career as an illustrator.
- Prince Charles: (born 1948) Member of the British royal family, for whom David Hicks carried out decoration projects.
- Princess Anne: (born 1950) Member of the British royal family, for whom David Hicks carried out decoration projects.
- Raphael (Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino): (1483-1520) Italian painter and architect of the High Renaissance, an iconic figure of this period.
- Ray Eames (Bernice Alexandra Kaiser): (1912-1988) American designer, wife, and creative partner of Charles Eames.
- Rebecca Gross: Author of Module 2: History of Style, Decoration, and Architecture for the IDI Canada and IDI USA Interior Design course. Expert in design history.
- René Lalique: See "Lalique."
- Romain de Tirtoff: See "Erté."
- Salvador Dali: (1904-1989) Spanish surrealist painter, sculptor, writer, and filmmaker, a major figure in the Surrealist movement.
- Sarah Bernhardt: (1844-1923) French actress of theater and cinema, a client of Erté for costume designs.
- Walter Gropius: (1883-1969) German architect, founder of the Bauhaus school, which had a major influence on modern design.
Conclusion:
Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern continue to inspire contemporary designers with their unique aesthetic principles. While Art Deco remains a symbol of luxury and sophistication, Mid-Century Modern embodies the perfect balance between functionality and elegance. Their impact on architecture and interior design continues to be evident today through modern reinterpretations that seek to blend tradition with innovation.
With an intuitive and user-friendly interface, these tools make it easier to make informed decisions and express your aesthetic sense.