Jump to:Art Nouveau, or "new art" in French, is an architectural and artistic movement that emerged in the late 19th century and lasted through World War II. Known for its flowing lines, organic forms, and intricate ornamentation, Art Nouveau marked a departure from more traditional styles, such as neoclassicism and Gothic Revival, in favor of developing an entirely new style that blended art, design, and technology in groundbreaking ways. While new technology and materials were used to create Art Nouveau works, there was still a great emphasis on craftsmanship and originality. It remains one of the most easily identifiable design styles, thanks to its distinctive look. Here's what you need to know about Art Nouveau architecture and its impact on design history.Related StoriesWhat Is Art Nouveau Architecture?Alexander Spatari//Getty ImagesArt Nouveaustyle apartment buildings in Barcelona, Spain.Art Nouveau architecture is a design style defined by dramatic, nature-inspired ornamentation, often with whiplash curves and flowing lines that look like vines. At its core, Art Nouveau architecture sought to break away from historical revival styles, such as Gothic or Neoclassical architecture, that dominated much of the 19th century. Instead, it aimed to create something entirely newhence the movement's name. It became the first design movement of the modern era.The History of Art Nouveau ArchitectureThe Art Nouveau movement began in Europe as a response to the Industrial Revolution and the dominance of historical revival styles. Artists and architects sought to create a design language that celebrated originality and craftsmanship while still embracing new technologies and materials. While the movement began in the late 19th century across France and Belgium, its popularity flourished globally after the 1900 Paris Exposition Universelle, where Art Nouveau artists and designers displayed their works in the style.Outside of France and Belgium, Art Nouveau took on different names. In Austria, it was known as Sezzionstil; in Germany, Jugendstil; in Italy, Stile Liberty or Floreale; and in Spain, Modernismo or Modernista.Related StoryDefining Features of Art Nouveau ArchitectureHeritage Images//Getty ImagesArt Nouveau stained glass windows in Brussels, Belgium.Art Nouveau architecture is instantly recognizable due to its unique characteristics, which include the following:Organic Forms and MotifsThis is undoubtedly the design movement's key characteristic. All Art Nouveau architecture features curving lines and forms that emulate naturefaades, interiors, and structural details include those whiplash curves that look like vines or plants.Intricate OrnamentationWrought-iron railings, mosaic tiles, and stained glass windows display Art Nouveau's famous organic forms and motifs.Innovative MaterialsArchitects used materials such as glass, iron, and ceramic tiles in creative ways to achieve organic designs.AsymmetryUnlike the more balanced designs of earlier styles, Art Nouveau embraced irregular and dynamic compositions.Famous Art Nouveau Buildings and StructuresHtel Tassel by Victor Horta, Brussels, BelgiumHeritage Images//Getty ImagesBuilt in 1893, the Htel Tassel is perhaps the foundation for Art Nouveau architecture with its swirling vine-like lines inside and out.Casa Batll by Antoni Gaud, BarcelonaAndrei Potorochin//Getty ImagesAntoni Gauds imagination ran wild with designing Casa Batll in Barcelona, which exemplifies Spain's take on Art Nouveau: the Modernista style of architecture.Paris Mtro Station Entrance Gates by Hector Guimardlegna69//Getty ImagesDesigned for the then-new subway system, these entrance gates by Hector Guimard introduced the Parisian public to Art Nouveau.Municipal House by Osvald Polvka and Antonn Balnek, PragueSylvain Sonnet//Getty ImagesThis public building in Prague is adorned with lavish mosaics and sculptures; Czech painter and illustrator Alphonse Mucha contributed to the interiors.Related StoryArt Nouveau Architecture FAQsWhy did Art Nouveau decline?Art Nouveau declined at the advent of World War I, as society focused less on the arts and more on technology. After World War I, Art Deco became the dominant style.What's the difference between Art Nouveau and Art Deco?While both Art Nouveau and Art Deco are decorative movements, their aesthetics are distinct. Art Nouveau came first, and it's best known for its organic, flowing forms. Art Deco came later, and it's defined by geometric shapes, bold lines, and a focus on modernity and luxury. While both movements are considered modern, and they used new technology in their creation, Art Nouveau celebrates the beauty of the natural world, while Art Deco embraces the speed and glamour of the machine age.What is Art Nouveau beyond architecture?Art Nouveau was not limited to architecture; it flourished in the fine arts, graphic arts, and decorative arts, too. Some iconic Art Nouveau works include posters by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and Alphonse Mucha, paintings by Gustav Klimt, lamps by Louis Comfort Tiffany, and furniture by Louis Majorelle.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.