Historical Design Movements

Hollywood Regency Style

Hollywood Regency emerged in the 1930s when designers like Dorothy Draper, Billy Haines, and William Haines created lavishly glamorous interiors for Hollywood's elite. The style drew on classical Regency, Art Deco, and Chinoiserie traditions, filtered through the lens of Golden Age cinema's desire for visual drama and luxury. Draper's bold use of oversized baroque elements and saturated colors established one direction, while Haines's more refined approach using Asian antiques and mirrored surfaces established another. The style has been continuously revived, notably by designers like Tony Duquette, Kelly Wearstler, and Jonathan Adler. Hollywood Regency remains one of the most popular glamorous interior styles, offering a formula for creating rooms that feel luxurious, dramatic, and personality-filled. The style pairs particularly well with modern architecture, where its decorative richness provides welcome warmth and visual interest. Incorporate Hollywood Regency through mirrored furniture, tufted velvet upholstery, bold lacquered surfaces, metallic gold and silver accents, and dramatic black and white contrasts. Oversized table lamps, faux bamboo furniture, and bold graphic patterns are signature elements. The style encourages confident personal expression and a willingness to mix precious with playful.

Key Characteristics

  • High-contrast black and white palettes
  • Mirrored and lacquered surfaces everywhere
  • Luxurious tufted velvet upholstery
  • Bold metallic gold and silver accents
  • Oversized dramatic decorative elements
  • Mixing of Eastern and Western influences

Types & Variations

Draper-style bold baroque Hollywood Regency
Haines-style refined Asian-influenced glamour
Duquette fantastical maximalist interpretation
Wearstler modern Hollywood Regency revival
Palm Beach Regency with tropical glamour

Common Materials

Mirrored glass for furniture and wallsHigh-gloss lacquered woodVelvet in jewel tones and neutralsBrass and gold-plated metalsLucite and acrylic furnitureFaux finishes including bamboo and tortoise

Works Well With These Styles

Placement & Usage Tips

Hollywood Regency rooms need a show-stopping focal point—an oversized sunburst mirror, a pair of dramatic table lamps, or a boldly lacquered piece of furniture. Balance glamorous pieces with cleaner-lined companions to prevent the room from feeling like a movie set. Mirrored surfaces amplify both light and drama.

💡 Pro Tip

The secret to Hollywood Regency is confidence. The style demands bold choices—a fire-engine red lacquered console, an entire wall of antiqued mirror, or a sofa in emerald green velvet. Half measures read as mistakes rather than style. Commit fully to your glamorous choices and the room will reward your courage.