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When you think of English interiors, you might conjure up an English country house style, complete with layers of antiques and chintzy drapes. Or, perhaps, you imagine a cosy cottage in the Cotswolds with Jude Law appearing at the front door, like in The Holiday.
I adore this uncontrived and comfort-lead English style of decorating. But what I find really exciting is when it’s combined with an edge.
That’s the magic happening in English interiors right now. It’s the fireplace and mantle, but skip the gold mirror — pop a bold modern artwork there instead. The expected symmetry of two matching sofas — now reimagined with a pair of curvy pieces.
The colour is bold and the pattern is artfully layered, the mood is lived-in but glam, and the traditional bones are there, but with a slightly rebellious soul.
You’ve seen it. You’ve saved it. You’ve mentally redecorated your entire home in it. Here are some tips to capture that impossibly chic English interior look — without accidentally recreating your nan’s guest room.
1. Break the rules (lovingly)
Think of the traditional English structure: fireplaces, antique mirrors, solid wood furniture, and symmetrical layouts. Now, it’s time to misbehave; swap that ornate mirror for a bold modern artwork, choose curvy sofas instead of a straight set, and play with proportion and surprise.
Replace expected symmetry with something sculptural or off-beat, and introduce a punchy lamp or oversized art piece where something more ‘proper’ would usually go.
2. Pattern like a pro
The Brits layer pattern generously, joyfully, and without fear. Think florals with checks, stripes with toiles, and chintz with wild abandon.
Stick to a cohesive colour palette, vary the scale — tiny prints with bold ones create contrast and are easier to coordinate — and add patterned lampshades, cushions, rugs, and curtains (even a tablecloth to create that lived-in look).
3. Bring the glamour
Add just enough sparkle so your space feels dressed up, but not trying too hard. A little brass, a fringed lampshade, a jewel-toned velvet chair or a mirror can really lift the space.
4. When in doubt, find a muse
If you need a direction, find inspiration in a British designer and go from there. Here are some of my favourites:
Studio Ashby: Bold artwork, layered textures, eclectic chic with a glam undercurrent.
Maddux Creative: A clever blend of history and modernity. Clean lines, soulful, and full of character (books, art, and patterned sheers).
Pinch: Quiet, crafted, and elegant. Pinch strikes the perfect balance between the minimalist and maximalist, simple and detailed, sparseness and decoration.
Rita Konig: The ultimate in cosy and clever. Rita Konig designs ‘proper English’ style with layering of patterns, lamps with fabric shades in each corner and always a playful element that stops the space from feeling too serious.
5. Trust the process
Lean into this eclectic look and don’t be afraid of colour. Think mustard, olive, dusty rose, navy, and muddy greens. Aim for charm over polish. This English look isn’t about perfection and it’s okay if it looks a little “collected over time.”
Add books, art, personality, layers, and a comfy chair to admire it all from.
