The British Invasion - How to Create the British Home Interior

I simply can’t resist hopping on the Royal Band Wagon! The wedding last week of Prince William & Princess Kate is no doubt igniting a new interest in the English Decorating style. Some have asked me: “How can I achieve that warm and inviting English décor in my home?”  You must think quaint, yet sophisticated. Coziness, comfort, and a love of nature can all be found in the English home. To create the look, this is how they go about it.

1. COLOR.

The English create their color palette from nature. Just look at the clothes the ladies were wearing at the wedding. They all wore colors that could be pulled from the flowers in their beautiful cottage gardens and rolling hills of the English countryside. The same holds true for their home fashions. Look for soft blues, muted rose tones, buttery yellows, and mossy greens.     

2. FABRICS.

The English love to mix a variety of patterns all within one room. Here, on the other side of the “pond,” we might consider it a bit busy, but they do it in a most tasteful way. And, there is a trick to mixing the right combination of floral patterns, geometric designs, plaids, and solids, but don’t be shy!

3. FURNITURE.  

Their furniture tends to be of a classic style. You may see a mix of traditional woods such as mahogany and oak, along with an occasional painted accent piece.

4. WALLPAPER.

The English LOVE Wallpaper. This may have fallen out of popularity here in the States, but in England it’s still hot! The oldest wallpaper company in the world, SANDERSON, is located in London and still provides custom-made wallpaper for Buckingham Palace and the White House.

5. FLOWERS.

Nothing captures the English décor more than flowers. Whether it’s fresh English roses from the garden,  floral prints on the walls, or floral-painted china, this theme must be incorporated to capture the mood.

6. ACCENTS & ACCESSORIES.

Needlepoint pillows with tassel-fringe, teapots, scattered vases of fresh flowers, ornate lamps and candlesticks. The English like to decorate with treasured pieces.  So, scan the antique stores for these special items, if you don’t already have a collection to work from.

7. WINDOWS.

For the cozy, English-cottage look, lace at the windows adds a charming touch. For a more formal room, heavily lined, sumptuous, long drapery panels made from rich fabrics, such as silk or velvet, add elegance. 

Ah . . . I am feeling in the mood right now for a cup of Earl Grey tea, a scone, and some English jam!