A beautiful example of English Country Decorating at the Georgian-era vicarage Hailsham Grange, in East Sussex. (Image by Huntley Hedworth)
The English country house style, with its timeless charm, has captured the hearts of decorators and homeowners worldwide. Despite its name, this style is not limited to the English countryside; it can be found in cities like Atlanta and London too. You may have already experienced the essence of this style without even knowing it. It features plush sofas adorned with pillows, traditional rugs, fabric-shaded table lamps, captivating artwork, and an abundance of flowers.
In an English country house, a fire is always lit or appears just extinguished, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. The rooms are filled with a harmonious mix of old and new—a French fauteuil or a Regency chest alongside contemporary or Asian-inspired elements. It is a style that embraces eccentricity and allows for a bit of clutter, making it undeniably charming and pretty.
The Origins of English Country House Style
The garden at Hailsham Grange, a series of rooms created by hedges of Korean box and hornbeam. (Image by Huntley Hedworth)
The English country house style traces its roots back to the layered interiors of old manor houses in the English countryside. While its origins are ancient, the credit for popularizing this style in America is often given to Nancy Lancaster, an influential decorator and garden designer. Partnering with John Fowler, Lancaster brought this exquisite style to her own homes and her esteemed clientele. She believed in the power of informality and understatement, creating rooms that felt relaxed and lived-in.
English country house style draws inspiration from various historical periods, predominantly the Georgian through early-Victorian eras. The style offers a wide range of influences, from classical Palladian symmetry to Victorian Gothic romanticism. Regardless of the architectural style, these rooms should exude a sense of belonging and heritage, as if they have been cherished by generations.
Colorful and Patterned Delight
The English are unafraid of color and patterns. (Image by Huntley Hedworth)
English interiors are known for their bold use of color, both pastels and rich, strong tones. Whether it's pastel or floral hues, deep blues, crimson, or gold, the English embrace color with enthusiasm. The pattern is also a key element, with different designs adorning wallpapers, rugs, and upholstery within the same room. Floral chintz coexists harmoniously with stripes, plaids, ticking, and paisley, creating a layered and textured visual feast.
Genteel Clutter and Timeless Beauty
A Minneapolis living room featuring a delightful mix of formal layout and casual furnishings. (Image by Karen Melvin)
English country house style celebrates the art of displaying beloved objects. Filled bookcases, framed art, porcelain, china, plants, flowers, and travel souvenirs create an atmosphere of genteel clutter. These carefully curated collections add character and tell stories of a life well-lived. The result is a space that is both visually stunning and deeply personal.
Hallmarks of English Country House Style
- Livable and Comfortable: English country house style embraces imperfections and creates an inviting and cozy atmosphere. It is a style that prioritizes comfort and relaxation.
- Fresh Colors: The color palette ranges from springtime pastels to vibrant reds, blues, and gold. It is a timeless combination that brings joy and elegance to any room.
- Patterns Galore: Mixing and layering patterns is a hallmark of this style. Whether it's floral chintz, stripes, or plaids, the key is to find harmony through a limited palette and an understanding of scale.
- Genteel Clutter: The art of displaying cherished objects is an essential aspect of English country house style. Filled bookcases, framed art, and collectibles add character and create a lived-in feel.
- Embracing Wear and Tear: English interiors embrace the beauty of age and wear. Treasured furniture and fabrics gain character over time, becoming even more beautiful with sun-faded patinas.
"English country house style pairs formal arrangements with comfort and wear; it respects history and tradition yet is practical about modern updates; it is exuberant, colorful, and pretty. The look may be adapted for almost any era." - Old House Online
English Country House Visits
If you're seeking inspiration from the original English country houses, there are numerous estates open to visitors in the United Kingdom. Some notable properties include:
- Scotney Castle, Kent: A classic English country house with interiors that span centuries.
- Ightham Mote, Kent: A medieval moated manor house with a rich history.
- Sissinghurst, Kent: Famous for its gardens designed by Vita Sackville-West.
- Bateman's, East Sussex: The former home of Rudyard Kipling, a 17th-century Jacobean rustic farmhouse.
- Tyntesfield, North Somerset: A picturesque Victorian Gothic Revival country house.
These extraordinary houses showcase the essence of English country house style and offer a glimpse into the charm and elegance that has inspired decorators for generations.
In conclusion, English country house style is a timeless and charming approach to interior design. It combines comfort and elegance, showcasing a rich tapestry of colors, patterns, and cherished objects. Whether you live in a grand manor or a cozy cottage, this style can be adapted to create a warm and inviting home.
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