Decorating Around the Planet: British Style Charms Any House
I’m reeling from Downton Abbey withdrawal, therefore I will indulge in a bit of British property spying to alleviate the pain. From sprawling country estates to miniature but stylish mews homes in the city, there are lots of style ideas to eliminate, even if a visit to England isn’t in the cards anytime soon.
Britannia Joinery
Bath with a view. A deep bathtub with a view of a verdant meadow certainly fits together with the British country house fantasy I harbor. You’re able to up the luxury in your own bath by treating it like a real space. For instance:
Hang a real mirror instead of a medicine cabinet.Choose a deep bathtub that inquires relaxation.Use a real rug on the floor (choose a cheap vintage find so you are not worried about damage).Hang art and bring in potted plants or cut flowers.
Britannia Joinery
Stone and greenery. For most of us, a real country estate might need to remain in the world of fantasy. But we could pull a notion or two from those inspirational houses. You may:
Route ivy or a different climbing plant onto your front gate.Flank your front door with a set of potted lemon trees.Place a classic Lutyens-style seat in your porch.Use rocky stones onto your front walk.
Moon Design + Build
Master the mix. Have a cue from this British flat and combine classic pieces with fresh, contemporary accessories. Pale taupe walls, dark flooring along with a tailored window color provide a complex background, while the sexy pink desk lamp and contemporary pendant lighting add a bit of fun. The built-in shelving and desk really create the tight space work to its entire advantage.
Moon Design + Build
Play up the architecture. Tall ceilings and intricate moldings are common in older buildings in the United Kingdom. If you’re fortunate enough to live in a home with great architectural detail, then highlight it by painting the trim a contrasting shade. Tall mirrors and very low furniture further emphasize the deliciously substantial ceilings.
Britannia Joinery
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 little space or city lot? A couple stately urns planted with fresh herbs, a bit of pea gravel, a simple wooden seat, and dwarf fruit trees in pots would be a fantastic start.
Chris Snook
Resort 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 in this quietly luxurious look. A silk-shade lamp, a contemporary pendant lighting and linen shades provide the finishing touch.
Chris Snook
Cozy elegance. Gorgeous plush chairs with nailhead trim exude taste and would still be comfy even after you have been sitting for hours at the table. Soft dove-gray walls, a straightforward parsons-style table and just-floor-length drapes pull together this tasteful look.
Moon Design + Build
Fresh colours and layout. 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 contemporary. This Orla Kiely bedding is an enjoyable alternative.
D Swift
A second life for old furniture. Another tendency popping up a lot in British style is to have a timeless furniture shape, similar to this wingback chair, and have it re-covered in vivid colours or contemporary floral prints. The result is unexpected and totally unique — I wish to try this with my following thrift shop find.
Design-OD
Modern loft. To get that chic London loft look, consider pairing clean-lined modern basics like a white sofa and very low coffee table with an elaborate mirror, sleek arc lamp and eye-catching pottery.
Inform usWhat facets of British style appeal to you? Would you rather live in a sprawling country estate à la Downton Abbey or a townhouse in a trendy London neighborhood? Share your thoughts in the Comments section.
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