Decorative Cities

The RMS Queen Mary, docked in Los Angeles, California, stands as an iconic example of Art Deco design on the high seas. Launched in 1934, this grand ocean liner effortlessly combines elegance and functionality, embodying the luxury and optimism of the Art Deco era. Its sleek black hull is contrasted sharply with the white superstructure, while bold geometric lines and streamlined forms emphasize speed and modernity. The ship's overall silhouette presents a harmonious blend of style and engineering precision, highlighting the sophistication of early 20th-century design.

The Queen Mary's Art Deco architecture is expressed vividly through its symmetrical, graceful shapes and meticulously crafted details. The ship features prominent smokestacks painted in a vibrant red and trimmed with black, adding a striking visual flair against the stark white upper decks. The exterior railings, windows, and stairwells showcase clean, horizontal lines and patterns that were hallmarks of the era. Interiors were equally lavish, with rich wood paneling, chrome fixtures, and decorative motifs that celebrate the era’s fascination with progress and luxury. This fusion of aesthetics and practical design helped make the Queen Mary a floating palace, setting new standards for ocean travel.

Today, the Queen Mary serves as a floating museum and hotel, preserving the grandeur of its Art Deco heritage for visitors to experience firsthand. Its enduring architectural beauty continues to captivate and inspire, making it a beloved landmark that bridges the golden age of ocean liners with contemporary appreciation for design and history.

Location: 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States