Decorating Around the World: British Style Charms Any Home
Whether you want country home style or the look of a luxurious loft, something British might be just your cup of tea
I'm reeling from Downton Abbey withdrawal, so I'm going to indulge in a bit of British real estate spying to ease the pain. From sprawling country estates to tiny but hip mews houses in the city, there are plenty of style ideas to take away, even if a trip to England isn't in the cards anytime soon.
Bath with a view. A gloriously deep tub with a view of a verdant meadow certainly fits with the British country house fantasy I harbor. You can up the luxury in your own bath by treating it more like a real room. For example:
- Hang a real mirror instead of a medicine cabinet.
- Choose a deep tub that invites relaxation.
- Use a real rug on the floor (choose an inexpensive vintage find so you're not worried about damage).
- Hang artwork and bring in potted plants or cut flowers.
Stone and greenery. For most of us, an actual country estate may have to remain in the realm of fantasy. But we can pull an idea or two from these inspiring homes. You might:
- Trail ivy or another climbing plant on your front gate.
- Flank your front door with a pair of potted lemon trees.
- Place a classic Lutyens-style bench on your porch.
- Use rugged stones on your front walk.
Master the mix. Take a cue from this British flat and blend classic pieces with fresh, modern accessories. Pale taupe walls, dark floors and a tailored window shade provide a sophisticated backdrop, while the hot pink desk lamp and modern pendant light add a bit of fun. The built-in shelving and desk really make the tight space work to its full advantage.
Play up the architecture. Tall ceilings and intricate moldings are common in older buildings in the United Kingdom. If you are lucky enough to live in a home with great architectural detail, highlight it by painting the trim a contrasting color. Tall mirrors and low furniture further emphasize the deliciously high ceilings.
Take it outside. Get the British country look at home with a crisp black and white paint job, a gravel courtyard, and neatly trimmed hedges. Working with a small space or city lot? A few stately urns planted with fresh herbs, a bit of pea gravel, a simple wooden bench, and dwarf fruit trees in pots would be a great start.
Hotel luxury. Steal the style of fancy London hotels by creating a cushy retreat in your own bedroom. Rich, dark wood furniture and pale, creamy linens come together in this quietly luxurious look. A silk-shade lamp, a modern pendant light and linen shades provide the finishing touch.
Comfortable elegance. Gorgeous plush chairs with nailhead trim exude taste and would still be comfy even after you've been sitting for hours at the table. Soft dove-gray walls, a simple parsons-style table and just-floor-length drapes pull together this elegant look.
Fresh colors and pattern. Textiles are a great way to bring a bit of British style home. The United Kingdom is home to a wealth of fabulous textile designers, ranging from traditional to Pop Art and modern. This Orla Kiely bedding is a fun choice.
A second life for old furniture. Another trend popping up a lot in British design is to take a classic furniture shape, like this wingback chair, and have it re-covered in bright colors or modern floral prints. The result is unexpected and totally unique — I want to try this with my next thrift shop find.
Modern loft. To get that chic London loft look, try pairing clean-lined modern basics like a white couch and low coffee table with an ornate mirror, sleek arc lamp and eye-catching pottery.
Tell us: What aspects of British style appeal to you? Would you rather live in a sprawling country estate à la Downton Abbey or a townhouse in a cool London neighborhood? Share your thoughts in the Comments section.
More:
Add a Dash of Downton Abbey Style
Guest Picks: Inspired by Downtown Abbey
Wedding Fever: Brit Design on the Mind
Tell us: What aspects of British style appeal to you? Would you rather live in a sprawling country estate à la Downton Abbey or a townhouse in a cool London neighborhood? Share your thoughts in the Comments section.
More:
Add a Dash of Downton Abbey Style
Guest Picks: Inspired by Downtown Abbey
Wedding Fever: Brit Design on the Mind