Britain has always had its own sensibilities when it comes to interior design, with many classic design elements offering a sense of timeless beauty. These elements are inarguably British, bringing a unique feeling of patriotism to your home décor: here’s our personal list of six interior decorations that are, without question, British to the core.
Potted Plants
Gardening is a beloved British pastime that’s shared by the entire nation, and it’s not just limited to the great outdoors – plants can add a decadent atmosphere to a home thanks to their aesthetic value and pleasant smells, which can change from plant to plant.
The choice of plant can help define the aesthetic off the room. Herbs, like Jasmine and Spearmint, can fill the room with an irresistibly fresh scent, whereas flowers, like Geraniums, come in a variety of vibrant colours that will add a feminine touch.
Floral Patterns
Britain’s love of flowers doesn’t stop there – everything, from carpets to wallpaper to bedsheets can be clad in a feminine floral pattern, which offers a nod to that classically British aesthetic. British homes were once decorated head to toe in floral designs, but over the years, a subtler approach has been adopted.
Floral wallpaper has been replaced by floral wall art, and the flower-patterned bedding uses more neutral colour schemes these days – it seems like the nation’s love of plant-themed designs is still alive and well. It’s hard to find a shop that won’t have any floral decorations in stock.
Wooden Furniture
Wood is a classic stylistic choice that stems from British opulence. Long-lasting and durable, traditional hardwood furniture is reliable and sturdy. modern furnishings incorporate traditional wood into otherwise cutting-edge designs – maintaining that ageless British appeal. This also extends to wear and tear, with many modern wooden pieces being deliberately weathered and faux-worn to capture the atmosphere or classic hand-made British furniture.
The Chesterfield Sofa
The average British home revolves around the living room and the sofa becomes the main congregation area for the whole family, so choosing a sofa that is both high-quality and aesthetic appealing is incredibly important.
The chesterfield is arguably the most quintessentially British furnishing around. Its large rolled arms and deep buttoned backs have stood the test of time, as the design remains contemporary, even though it dates back to the 19th century. If you’re looking for bespoke craftsmanship, Chesterfield sofa manufacturers are the way to go, with companies like Robinson of England offering a personalised service and selection of traditional manufacturing techniques.
Book Tables
Even in the tech age, Brits love a good book. In fact, they’re so beloved that families will go out of their way to find extra storage for their collections. Specifically designed to store and support books in living rooms and larger bedrooms, these pieces are usually complimented well with “coffee table books”, huge hardbacks that are meant to be displayed (and read by) guests. This has become a huge part of British interior design, even turning up as conversation pieces in the most contemporary homes.