After the final season of Downton Abbey draws to a close, interior designers have seen a surge in requests for Downton-esque grand interiors. Although their clients might not mix in the same circles as Lady Grantham, there's no doubt that the aristocratic style of the show has influenced many things in their lives from fashion to soft furnishings.
Get the Downton Abbey Style
The traditional feel of the interiors are obviously more suited to a period property rather than a new build, but there are features of the style that we can all take inspiration from no matter our property.
A Dramatic Entrance Hallway
A dramatic entrance hallway is a must if you want to make a statement with this look. From distinctive tiled flooring to a wooden console table displaying a carefully chosen ornament we can emulate the traditional feel into our home as soon as someone walks in. When it comes to the structure of the room itself, deep skirting boards, dado rails, picture rails and plasterwork can all add a sense of classic history to your home.
Keep accessories subtle and traditional such as candles and stag heads, choose your stag in a metal or fabric if you want a more contemporary look.
A Living Room fit for a Lady
The living room is an area where you can add elements of Downton style but within a modern edge. Mix classic furniture design in light colours with touches of dark accent colours and period accessories such as mirrors. Luxurious fabrics especially in rich hues are great choices for a sophisticated and classic Downton design, whether in full length curtains or Roman blinds.
Floral prints on curtains or blinds are another way of decorating like Lady Grantham, they pay homage to the traditional style of a bygone era and help to create a luxe feel. The addition of a gorgeous chandelier or feminine light shade will bring a heritage feel to the room.
Dining in Downton style
A classic set of fine china sets the scene for fine dining - setting the table for dinner is a very Downton-like thing to do. Having these laid on the table daily, as if expecting a dinner guest will make your room elegant and look welcoming. With the trend for vintage china and home baking still popular, a cake-stand, teapot, milk jug and cups and saucers are a very stylish way to enjoy your Downton afternoon tea.
A Classic Kitchen
We're not saying to make your kitchen as basic as the Downton's servants kitchen, you still need some modern elements but don't forget about the statement heritage pieces that complete the look. A Belfast sink, range cooker and tiled flooring can make even the most modern kitchen look
A Master Bedroom
If you have the room, a four-poster bed is a Downton must-have. If your space and budget won't stretch to a four-poster, a fabric canopy above the headboard or just a padded headboard in a heritage colour will give a nice nod to a Downton design.
If you have a fitted bedroom, experiement with dark wood tones and glossy textures. Check out our interactive wardrobe builder to design your own Downton-inspired wardrobe.
A Bathroom to Reign in
Nothing says Downton more than a roll top bath - choose oversized, classic style taps in gold and mismatch units. Use muted heritage colours for walls and vintage patterned tiles.
