So many people loved the PBS series Downton Abbey, not only for the story line, but also for the fashions and home styling that evoke an era of grandeur. So how might we capture some of that elegance in our modern-day homes? Well, you could buy it – the show’s producers now have about 250 pieces of furniture and accessories available for sale. Or you could add some special touches to any room to bring about the feeling of an English estate.
- Antique Furniture
An obvious place to start is by using antique furniture, or reproductions of antiques. Now, I know that these days many younger people lump antiques into what they call “brown furniture.” But there is a certain regal quality to the rich woods and amazing carvings that are a part of this era. Rather than thinking you need an entire wall of carved bookcases, start by adding a coffee table and/or end tables. And perhaps there’s a special nook that could benefit from a lovely little antique writing desk. - Pastel Tones
A key thing to keep in mind is your color palette. Pastel tones inspired by nature were all the rage, with pale greens, sky blues and rose pinks in every room. To compliment the patina of the wood tones seen throughout an older home, warm pastels were used extensively in rugs, upholstery and drapes and even on the ceilings. Take the look a step further and think about using wall coverings to create the ultimate stately look. - Rich Materials
Materials used on furniture and drapery were also rich in their feel and look. Furniture in velvets and brocades, with overstuffed cushions and tufted backs, was abundant. Leather chairs were also used, especially in the library. - Oriental Carpets
Oriental carpets over hardwood floors are another aspect to consider. Large and small, rugs with intricate patterns and rich colors certainly bring to mind a feeling of elegance, and the older the rugs are, the better! - Luxe Lighting
Another feature of rooms in Downton is lamp lighting. Floor lamps and table lamps add ambiance and warmth to a room. Choosing fixtures that are in wood or antique brass, with Baroque features, will help bring that old-world feeling to a space. And, of course, an ornate crystal chandelier will certainly conjure up the ambience and grace of the Edwardian era. - Traditional Accessories
And we can’t forget to accessorize – a lot! Pillows with fringe, drapery with tasseled tie-backs, lace table runners, stacks of old books, antique silver pieces and cut crystal bowls. All these additions will add a feeling of provenance, as if your family has lived in this home for generations. - Fresh Flowers
Lastly, bring in fresh flowers and a few well-placed green plants. A fern on a stand, an orchid on a table by the window, and a vase of flowers on the hall table will bring forth a sense of being catered to.
With a few of these special touches, your home will start to feel more and more like an ole English estate. Another luxurious touch, start a fire! Even if you don’t have a maid to lay the fire for you each evening, the charm evoked by this look of the early 19th century will evoke warm thoughts!
