When it comes to design then it’s fair to acknowledge that Britain is right up there with developing and adopting new trends. If you’re looking to give your place a new zip then here are some of the great ideas that have emerged from the innovative, modern British interior designers and trendsetters.
Just remember, you don’t have to everything all at once, but you’ll always have a room or two that you know needs to be changed around, so embrace the fashions and have some fun!
Theme tropical
There’s nothing that warms the heart quite as much as tropical themes in your house. They convey a sense of the exotic, the exciting and, perhaps, the unattainable. Still, you can recreate some beautiful images to get you closer to your island paradise: perhaps some wallpaper featuring colorful trees and flowers to suggest that Caribbean getaway; or tropical birds, a riot of colors, on a cushion; or even a parrot-shaped lamp to conjure up those tropical visions.
Brass and copper
In Britain brass is slang for money and copper for a policeman, but in interior design it’s the metals that have been trending in the shops. You’ll find gold-plated bathroom fixtures such as faucets that add a real touch of luxury and some stunning classic designs that will turn your bathroom into a set from Downton Abbey.
Accessorize with antiques
Now here’s a trend that’s all the rage in Britain. Sure, many homes have sleek modern lines with sleek modern furniture, but mixing these with some judiciously placed antiques makes a bold new statement. The antiques trade in Britain is huge and the opportunity to pick up beautiful objects is ever-present.
When you’re thinking about mixing the old and the new, look at what you already have and search for things that will complement the surroundings. An ornate clock could sit well in between some sculpted candlesticks, and an old oak chest with attractive carving will add a real touch of class to the corner of the room – and store all manner of things.
The old and the new can work together – it just needs the right eye to match things up.
Warm woods
There’s little doubt that the influence of Scandinavia has had a major impact on British interior design over the years. Those blond woods are undeniably attractive but there is a growing trend for warmer woods to furnish the home. Veneered dressing tables, chaises longues, furniture in the traditional British woods of oak, cherry and walnut are all part of the reinvention of classic furnishings.
Window watching
Curtains have so often been the go-to solution for covering windows, but you’ll find many British homes are choosing wooden shutters instead. Why? They’re versatile, they can be made from a whole range of materials and to fit any type of window, and they give a room additional character. On top of that, they can be adjusted to let in or keep out as much light as required – what’s not to like?