The simple and practical form of Art Deco furnishing characterizes the style. Clean shapes and elegant lines are emphasized; decoration in the form of marquetry, carved and cut bas-reliefs, and contrasting parquetry are favored. Ornate moldings and scrolled protrusions that perform no practical function are left out to allow for the elegant curves, sleek lines, and streamlined geometric shapes typically found in Art Deco design.

The artistic influence from such diverse disciplines as African tribal art, Japanese lacquer work and contemporary abstract painting and sculpture can be seen in many examples of French Art Deco objects. Often the decorating is glittery and exotic, most of it being very stylized and abstract. Exotic and intricate patterns are common, so are stylized flowers and foliage.