It is fair to say that there are many decor styles these days. Some have a rich history and have lasted for centuries, while others are more modern and have developed from recent trends. They all have their place, but when it comes to timeless style, some seem more suited.
One of these styles is English country decor. With centuries of history, this style has proven to endure and transcend trends. “The classic English country style is as enduringly appealing as it is comfortingly familiar,” says interior designer Nicola Harding. “It evokes a sense of comfort and ease, with a smile. The English style has a way of balancing the sensible with the cheerful, creating something eminently livable,” she adds.
So, what exactly is English country decor, and how can you create a cohesive scheme with this style? We turned to top interior designers to give their opinion on this enduring aesthetic and ask how they inject English country charm into interiors.
What is English country decor?
According to the website Homes & Gardens, English country decor is the epitome of timeless interiors. Filled with traditional colors, beautiful patterns, and eclectic collections, English country interiors embrace eclecticism and lived-in style in abundance. Think of the interiors of old country houses from period dramas like Downton Abbey or Bridgerton – English country decor is a collective of design elements from different eras and styles.
“The English country house style is about layers of texture, pattern, color, and above all, comfort,” says interior designer, furniture maker, and antiques dealer Max Rollitt. “It is also about decorating with antiques. Softening the interior architecture and adding a bit of humor. Interiors are much more interesting when there’s a mix of things,” he adds.
When it comes to enhancing English country decor, it’s all about the overall appeal of a scheme. “For me, it’s about comfort, eclecticism, and a harmonious mix of old and new, creating inviting, cozy spaces rich in character. This approach makes the style timeless and adaptable,” explains interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.
What are the key design elements of English country decor?
According to the website Homes & Gardens, interiors decorated with English country decor mix the old and the new, delight in patterns and colors, and certainly don’t feature rooms full of matching furniture. “English country decor is a blend of the old and the new and a combination of patterns, from large florals to checks. There’s a softness to English country that also exudes comfort,” says Liv Wallers, interior designer and co-founder of Yellow London.
Certain design elements are essential to English country design – without them, you lose the charm and character that make it unique. “The key elements of English country decor tend to include a mix of traditional and modern influences, emphasizing comfort and a connection to nature, whether you’re in the countryside or the city,” explains Lauren Gilberthorpe.
“We always incorporate weathered furniture, mixed patterns, and a collection of personal and meaningful items that reflect a journey through time. Think of antiques and contemporary pieces against a backdrop of natural materials like wood and stone, which reflect the layered history of an English country house,” she adds.
How to Decorate with English Country Style?
1. Introduce Vintage and Antique Pieces
Decorating with antiques and vintage pieces is important for English country decor. They not only capture the mix of styles and eras but also add interest and a sense of collected style. “Mix antiques and vintage in a room to add personality and achieve a warm, interesting patina,” says Nicola Harding.
Layering different vintage and antique additions is a great way to achieve the look associated with English country style. Liv Wallers recommends “picking up some antiques, whether furniture or accessories, to help add layers to the interior, bringing a sense of development.” For example, a vintage rug covered with a 19th-century table and chairs adds charm and character to a room.
Antique furniture is a great way to add a sense of history, and because most of it is larger in size, it can really transform a room. “Eclectic furniture from different eras is a key element, from an old farmhouse kitchen table in a room to a dark mahogany dining table,” adds Liv Wallers.
2. Decorate with Colors and Patterns
There is no room for minimalist whitewashed rooms in English country interiors. Instead, consider introducing bold heritage tones. “Warm tones like red and ochre and soft fabrics are often used to create a cozy atmosphere, paired with linen to keep the rustic feel,” says Liv Wallers.
Of course, there is room for calmer and subtler tones to balance out those more vibrant hues. “I recommend gently soft tones, colors that seem to belong to nature,” says Nicola Harding. “They feel grounded and easy to live with,” she adds.
Decorating with patterns is also essential to English country decor – from florals to checks and stripes, they add character and coziness to any space. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different patterns and colors as well. If done right, it can really emphasize the idea of eclectic interiors.
3. Create a Cozy Atmosphere
Comfort is always important in any interior design style you’re working with. English country decor is no exception, so consider the larger furniture pieces and upholstery you’re introducing. “A key piece of this look is a very comfortable armchair,” says Nicola Harding. A cozy armchair upholstered in a classic striped fabric and covered with a cushion is perfect for a perfect blend of country style and comfort.
Decorative details also come into play here. Rugs, poufs, window treatments are essential to pull together a scheme and add a sense of comfort. When it comes to curtains, Nicola Harding recommends “making them as high as possible – start high, always go to the floor and stack them as wide as possible, so you keep as much light as possible in the room when the curtains are open. And think about a cheerful lining.”
Lighting helps create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, so introduce plenty of additional light sources. Add floor and table lamps with carved wooden bases and pleated, colorful lampshades. Wall sconces are also very typical of English country style, so opt for wall lights where you can.
4. Mix Old and New for an Eclectic Scheme
Vintage and antique additions are essential for a successful English country scheme, but without mixing in more contemporary items, your home might start to feel dated. English country decor has always been about mixing furniture and decor pieces from different eras, and that includes today’s new items.
“Combine the traditional and contemporary by using a large-scale traditional fabric alongside a more contemporary stripe, for example,” advises Liv Wallers. “We are lucky with the choice of materials available now, just introducing some reclaimed tiles can change the feel of a newly decorated room, making it seem lived in and as if it’s been there for years,” she adds.
This also leans into the idea of mixing contrasting items to create an eclectic feel. “The style is about the art of mixing, not matching, and finding beauty in the eclectic and the imperfect. It encourages a home to evolve with you, so incorporate new finds and memories alongside precious antiques,” says Lauren Gilberthorpe.
5. Focus on Decor That Makes the Space Feel Personal and Lived-In
English country decor embraces the ethos that homes should feel like you, lived in rather than overly designed and perfected. This means including furniture that might be a bit worn and clearly loved, antiques with beautiful patina, and decorative items that have clearly been passed down through generations. “A key to getting the style right is embracing its inherently non-formulaic nature and the idea that comfort and personal expression are the most important elements,” says Lauren Gilberthorpe.
“I always say focus on creating a space that feels personal and inviting. Incorporate vintage fabrics, printed sofas, and rustic furniture to add depth and coziness. Mix patterns, add color, and choose old pieces that will inject character and charm. Personal touches like meaningful photographs, beloved artwork, flowers, and old and new objects can make a space feel authentically lived-in and uniquely yours,” she adds.
This also applies to displays – the idea of “shelf wealth” really comes into play here. Bookshelves shouldn’t be overly curated and styled, but rather a space to enjoy your favorite books (spines cracked and all!) and display artwork, photographs, and collected items that bring you joy. “Books bring comfort,” says Nicola Harding. “You never feel alone in a room full of books, and they give a sense of history,” she adds.
English country decor embraces eclectic and lived-in interiors that celebrate history and character. Schemes that embrace this style should feel collected and personal, rather than polished and perfected.
“Remember that timelessness in English country decor comes from authenticity and a true reflection of your home’s life, your interests, and the natural evolution of your personal style,” says Lauren Gilberthorpe.
So, display your favorite collections, fill your shelves to the brim, and let your furniture show its age and wear – all signs that your pieces are dearly loved and well-used and, most importantly, add character and personality to your space.
Source: Homes & Gardens. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
