Dekorativ

Dekorativ is an adjective used in several European languages to describe elements added to objects or spaces to enhance appearance without contributing to their essential function. In Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish, dekorativ means decorative. The term is widely used in design disciplines such as architecture, interior design, fashion, textiles, and product design to distinguish ornamental features from purely functional ones.

Decorative features include ornamentation, motifs, patterns, surface decoration, and trim. Examples are ornamental plasterwork on a facade, carved cornices, decorative moldings, patterned wallpaper, decorative stitching on textiles, and branding logos. Decorative choices convey taste, cultural references, symbolism, or status, and can be realized through techniques like carving, gilding, painting, printing, embroidery, or laser-cut patterns.

Historically, decoration has played a central role in many art and architectural periods—from classical orders and Renaissance schemes to Baroque, Rococo, and Art Nouveau. In the 20th century, movements emphasizing functionalism reduced ornament in some contexts, but dekorativ elements persisted, often reinterpreted in modern materials and forms within interiors, graphic design, and consumer products.

In contemporary practice, dekorativ continues to signal identity, craftsmanship, and cultural cues. It can enhance perceived value and aesthetic pleasure, while its use is typically balanced with usability, branding considerations, and stylistic principles appropriate to the context.