From Paris to Wanaka: The Art Deco Inspiration Behind Our Bikes

When you think of cycling, your mind probably jumps to images of sleek designs, modern materials, and futuristic gadgets. But here at Le Velo Studio, we’re not just looking ahead — we’re also looking back. Specifically, to a time when design was synonymous with elegance, style was king, and every object seemed to exude a sense of artistic purpose. That time? The Art Deco period.

Born in Paris during the 1920s, Art Deco was a design movement that embraced luxury, craftsmanship, and bold geometry. Fast forward nearly a century, and its influence is still felt in everything from architecture to fashion — and yes, even bicycles. So, how exactly did an artistic movement from early 20th-century France inspire our lightweight, eco-friendly bikes in Wanaka, New Zealand? Buckle up (or rather, strap on your helmet), and let’s dive into the story of how we brought a touch of Parisian flair to modern cycling.

What is Art Deco, Anyway?

Before we get into the details of how Art Deco influenced our bikes, let’s take a quick trip down memory lane and revisit what Art Deco is all about.

Art Deco, short for Arts Décoratifs, emerged in the 1920s as a celebration of modernity and the machine age. But it wasn’t just about industrial design — it was about making functional objects beautiful. With its bold geometric patterns, clean lines, and a focus on luxury materials, Art Deco married form and function in a way that still feels fresh today.

The movement embraced symmetry, order, and precision while using materials like chrome, glass, and polished wood. Everything from skyscrapers to furniture bore the hallmarks of this iconic style. The Chrysler Building in New York? Art Deco. The interiors of luxury ocean liners? You guessed it — Art Deco.

The movement wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about progress. It captured the spirit of a world that was changing rapidly, embracing innovation while honoring craftsmanship. And that’s where our story begins.

A Journey from Paris to Wanaka

Le Velo Studio didn’t start with a blank slate. When Alex Guichard, the founder of Le Velo Studio, began designing our bikes, he was already steeped in a rich history of design and innovation. Alex’s journey took him from the streets of France to the mountains of Wanaka, New Zealand — and it’s safe to say that those contrasting landscapes informed the creation of our bikes in more ways than one.

But when it came time to choose a design language for our bikes, Alex didn’t just want them to be functional; he wanted them to be beautiful. And what better place to draw inspiration from than the Art Deco movement, with its dedication to both elegance and engineering excellence?

By blending the clean lines and symmetrical shapes of Art Deco with cutting-edge technology, Alex and his team created something that’s not just a tool for transport but a piece of art in motion.

‍

The Art Deco Influence on Our Bikes

So, how exactly does Art Deco manifest itself in our bikes? Let’s break down a few key design elements:

1. Clean Lines & Symmetry
   Art Deco is known for its geometric shapes and clean, streamlined designs — and these principles are central to the aesthetics of our bikes. Whether you’re looking at the frame of the Le Velo Studio ebike or the sleek aero fairing of the Le Gravel Studio, you’ll notice a sense of balance and order in every curve. The double beam frame design, in particular, takes cues from the symmetry of Art Deco architecture, creating a bike that’s both visually striking and perfectly balanced.
2. Bold Geometry
   One of the hallmarks of Art Deco is its use of bold geometric shapes, often in patterns that catch the eye. While bikes might not have room for intricate patterns, the shapes and proportions of our bikes are a nod to this design ethos. The diamond-like silhouette of the bike frames, the perfectly circular rear wheel motor casing, and the angular lines that run along the frame all carry forward the spirit of Art Deco’s geometric obsession.
3. Luxury in Materials
   In the world of Art Deco, materials mattered. From polished metals to exotic woods, the materials used during this period were a celebration of craftsmanship and luxury. Our bikes, too, embrace a modern interpretation of material excellence. The lightweight carbon fiber used in our frames provides strength and speed without sacrificing beauty. And while we’re all about sustainability, we ensure that every part of our bikes reflects the quality and care that went into their design — much like the artisans of the Art Deco era.
4. Functional Elegance
   In true Art Deco style, we believe that just because something is functional doesn’t mean it can’t also be beautiful. Our bikes are designed to be used every day, whether you’re commuting through the city or racing down a gravel trail. But they’re also designed to look good doing it. Every aspect of our bikes — from the sleek handlebars to the minimalist design of the pedals — is meant to elevate your ride, giving you a sense of style and elegance while you’re out on the road.

Bringing Art Deco Into the Future

One of the reasons Art Deco remains so beloved is its timeless quality. Despite being almost a century old, its designs still feel relevant today. And that’s exactly what we wanted to capture with our bikes — a sense of timelessness.

Our bikes are not just tools for getting from point A to point B. They’re an experience, a reminder that the things we use every day can still be works of art. Whether you’re zipping through the streets on your Le Velo Studio ebike or exploring the trails on your Le Gravel Studio, you’re riding something that’s been designed with the same attention to detail that Art Deco designers brought to their buildings, cars, and furniture.

By embracing the spirit of Art Deco, we’re paying homage to a design movement that valued both beauty and progress — and in doing so, we’re creating bikes that are not only functional but also a joy to ride.

From Parisian Streets to New Zealand Trails

While Art Deco’s origins are in the glamorous streets of Paris, its influence now stretches all the way to the scenic trails of Wanaka, New Zealand, where our bikes are born. And just as Art Deco design was once the cutting edge of modernity, our bikes represent the future of cycling — where sustainability, innovation, and design excellence meet.

Each time you ride a Le Velo Studio bike, you’re not just riding a bike. You’re experiencing a piece of history, a celebration of craftsmanship, and a glimpse of the future. It’s a ride that combines the elegance of Paris with the rugged beauty of New Zealand — and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Conclusion: Ride with Elegance and Purpose

At Le Velo Studio, we believe that every ride should be as much about the journey as it is about the destination. And just like the Art Deco designers who inspired us, we’re committed to making sure that your journey is as stylish as it is smooth.

Our bikes are more than just modes of transportation — they’re expressions of art, passion, and precision. From the bold lines and symmetry to the luxurious materials and functionality, we’ve crafted something truly unique. So the next time you’re out on your Le Velo or Le Gravel, take a moment to appreciate the artistry behind your ride. After all, you’re not just riding a bike — you’re riding a masterpiece.

‍