Art Nouveau architecture: How to spot it and where to see it

Buildings that bend like vines or bloom like flowers—that’s Art Nouveau. It grew around 1890–1910 as a reaction to cold, rigid designs. Architects and designers wanted buildings to feel alive. The result: facades, doors, furniture and fixtures that share the same organic look.

Key features to look for

Start by checking lines. Art Nouveau favors long, flowing curves often called "whiplash" lines. Look at railings, window frames, and molding—if the shapes curve like stems or waves, that’s a strong sign. Nature motifs are everywhere: flowers, leaves, insects and shells show up in stone, ironwork, stained glass and tiles.

Materials mix freely. You'll see cast iron for balconies and railings, glass for colorful windows and skylights, and mosaic or glazed tiles on walls and entrances. Interiors often match exteriors: light fixtures, staircases and furniture were designed to form a complete visual whole, not random add-ons.

Notice how windows and doors are framed. They often avoid perfect rectangles and prefer rounded corners or elongated shapes. Details are handcrafted: look for forged iron patterns, ceramic panels with painted scenes, and painted or inlaid wooden furniture that follows the same curves as the building.

Where to see Art Nouveau

Want to see good examples quickly? In Paris, spot Hector Guimard’s Metro entrances and houses with sinuous ironwork. Brussels is a must for Victor Horta’s townhouses—Hôtel Tassel is a classic. Barcelona shows a local twist with Antoni Gaudí’s flowing facades at Casa Batlló and Casa Milà. Riga has one of the largest collections of Art Nouveau façades in Europe, full of floral and figurative ornament. Vienna’s Secession buildings and Budapest’s decorative apartment blocks also show the style’s local flavors.

Not every curved building is Art Nouveau, but if multiple design elements repeat—curves, nature motifs, integrated interiors—you’re likely looking at the real thing. Walking tours in these cities often point out small details that stand out only when you know what to watch for.

Want a quick ID trick? Check balconies and entrances first. They’re cheap to view from the street and often contain signature ironwork or tile panels. If a building has matching interior details—stair rails, lamps, or stained glass—it’s almost certainly made in the Art Nouveau spirit.

Thinking of bringing the look home? Add curved iron railings, a stained-glass window panel, or a few mosaic tiles by the entry. You don’t need a full renovation: one or two crafted pieces can give a modern space a clear Art Nouveau vibe without feeling dated.

Art Nouveau feels personal because it focuses on craft and detail. Once you learn a few visual cues, the style starts to pop out on city streets, subway stops and even in old apartment doorways. Keep your eyes open—these details are the real reward.