The French are perhaps known for their fashion – a specialty I was born something This manages to be effortless and elegant at the same time – but when it comes to home interior design? Nobody does it like the British. As the biggest design trends continue to be at the traditional end of the spectrum, many people are yearning to transform their spaces into something you would see in the English countryside.
For Emma Corner, a British designer who now splits her time between Austin and New York City, it's the little details that make British homes so charming. “Our design education tends to emphasize historical styles, craftsmanship, architectural details and the layering of design elements, and we see more of that here (in the U.S.) in projects and their influence,” she says. “We see spaces that are not loud, but quiet, elegant and timeless – where everything is placed with intention.”
Do you want to bring the look and charm of? other Side of the pond in the USA? Look no further. Below, American designers reveal the key British decor elements they always “borrow” for their projects and how to bring the look into your own home.
Stack the patterns
When it comes to patterns, more is better. “British design has long embraced the art of mixing, from florals with stripes to checks with chintz,” explains Jade Joyner, founder of Metal + Petal in Athens, Georgia. “It’s a fearless layering that creates depth and story.” As Americans shed their penchant for minimalist decor, they crave spaces that feel “story-rich and personal.”
There's a fine line between pattern clashes that are chic and combinations that are downright chaotic, so Jade recommends starting with textiles. “Place a floral pillow on a striped chair or mix a traditional print with something unexpected, aiming for a cohesive color palette so it feels collected rather than chaotic,” she says. For a fail-safe strategy, focus on materials with a similar color palette but experiment with print and proportions. A throw pillow covered in oversized floral patterns adds visual interest when paired with a pinstripe armchair. (Yes, even if they come in similar color palettes.)
Jade's biggest tip? Take your time. “Let your spaces evolve over time rather than making sure everything fits together,” she says. “There is beauty in the mix of old and new and in pieces that tell a story.”
Redress your seats…and sinks…and…
Don't let the dated reputation of skirted furniture fool you: the look is quintessentially British and, yes, it's a moment. “There is something inherently romantic and calming about a fabric-covered table or a gathered skirt on a chair,” says Laura Lubin of Ellerslie Interiors in Nashville, Tennessee. “It pays homage to tradition while still feeling inviting and lively.”
If you need even more proof of skirt details, we spotted a ruffled sofa designed by Heather Chadduck Hillegas in the bedroom sitting area of a South Carolina home pictured above. Similar to mixing and matching patterns, Laura recommends starting small. “A custom patterned linen side table or a ruffled sink edge in a guest bathroom add instant personality,” she says. Or, for an unexpected “wow” factor, add a fabric curtain to your bathroom vanity, like designer Katie Rosenfeld did in this cozy lake cabin.
Layer window treatments
Windows may be the eye of the house, but they also crave a British X-factor. For Laura, layered window treatments provide a “collected, lived-in look” so typical of English homes. “I think people are craving comfort and nostalgia in their homes right now,” she says. “Multi-layered window treatments provide the feeling of warmth and softness that was missing in the pared-back, minimalist years.”
Bonus points: Because you're working with two different layers, you can control the natural light that flows into your home—creating an intimate, cozy space whenever you want. While tucking a sheer curtain behind heavier curtains is one option, Laura recommends thinking beyond the one-piece treatments. “Try placing woven shades under lined curtains or adding contrasting trim to your curtains to create a British-inspired, finished feel,” she adds.
Kelsey Mulvey is a freelance lifestyle journalist who covers shopping and deals Good housekeeping, Women's HealthAnd ELLE decoramong other things. Her hobbies include themed spinning classes, Netflix and nachos.