Posts

Downton Abbey

From Downton to Kansas City: Downton Abbey Design Inspiration for Your Home

Post-I don’t know about you, but I’ve gotten hooked on Downton Abbey!  I totally love the series, but also admire the Edwardian interior decor, and can get just as hooked admiring all the details in this beautiful home.  This form of interior design has experienced a recent surge in popularity thanks to Downton Abbey, the critically-acclaimed British period drama.  While full-on early 20th century aristocratic style isn’t for everyone, it’s easy to take some cues from production designer Donal Woods in adding a note of elegance to your own Kansas City home.

Downton Abbey

Traditionalhome.com

Deeply saturated colors take center stage on Downton Abbey, particularly burgundy red, paprika, and gold with highlights of emerald, navy, and celery green.  Luxurious fabrics like velvet and silk lend a richness that can be borrowed by homeowners today, in the form of draperies or upholstery, which play well against hardwood floors and hand-knotted rugs.

Downton Abbey furnishings and high ceilingss

“he show’s designers benefit from the high ceiling rooms filled with priceless paintings and furnishings.” – traditionalhome.com

Wood takes an important role in furniture and detailing as well, and Downton Abbey’s set designers prefer a medium tone.  Antique woods have a sense of depth and complexity, but professional staining can simulate the patina of age, and when paired with red and gold hues the overall effect is a warm ambiance.

Downton Abbey staircase

Photo: Traditionalhome.com

The most important details, however, are often the smallest. Carved mouldings can change the entire feel of a room, and ornate frames capture the sense of decadence that saturates Downton Abbey’s sets. Consider investing in a detailed newel post for your staircase–this subtle touch can elevate an often-overlooked part of the home.

The Decorative Touch is ready to help craft your Kansas City home’s interior, whether you prefer an understated design or the full elegance of the British gentry. Contact us to discuss your ideas and we’ll work with you to bring them into reality.

Modern british colonial

Worldwide British Style

As the entire world watches the 2012 Olympics, there is a renewed interest in all things English, especially interior design. And two things come to mind when English décor is discussed, quaint brick cottages full of history and light airy modern flats featuring fresh colors and cutting edge styles.

British interior design

Photo Credit: Heart Home Magazine

 

Modern british colonial

Photo via pinterest.com

Many of these English brick country homes are blessed with outstanding architectural detail. And if you are presently decorating a home with some these same features: high ceilings, soaring windows and intricate mouldings, then take advantage of the space by using tall mirrors, stenciled ceilings and contrasting moulding colors. While a modern American home would take advantage of the extra space by crafting oversized built-ins, the English generally favor more low slung pieces emphasizing the room’s openness.

 

Modern British Interiors

Photo Credit: styleathome.com

If your tastes run more toward the modern, think bright colorful fabrics meshing with bold furniture and accent pieces. It’s easy to update a classic piece with a couple coats of paint or funky upholstery. Or the newest trend is all white…and while it does present a clean crisp look just think twice if you have pets or children!

Would you ever consider bringing a bit of English design influence into your Kansas City home?