English design in clothes and interiors cannot be confused with any other. The rigor in the choice of materials and the desire for sophisticated luxury create a fabulous atmosphere of Victorian England, which today will take root both in a country house and in a city apartment. 

The history of the formation of the interior in the English style

Respectable British style began to take shape in the second half of the 19th century, when the romantic Puritan Victoria ascended the throne. For the country, the period of her reign became a golden age: the social order changed, science and art developed, the values ​​of the middle class came to the fore: practicality, frugality and good manners.

Production became manufactory, mechanical machines appeared, furniture ceased to be a luxury item. Wealthy families now have thoughtful interiors and amenities, including a bath and bidet. For families with above-average incomes, cabinet-makers worked, making furniture masterpieces from noble wood species.

Components of the English style in the interior

You will recognize the English living room at first glance: you will be greeted by striped or checkered fabric wallpaper. The heraldic lily print and floral motifs are also popular. The walls can remain plain, dark or light, but always decorated with moldings. An option for a country house is a natural stone. Noble materials are welcome: walnut and bog oak, mahogany and rosewood.

The climate of England is far from perfect: high humidity and drafts motivate ladies and gentlemen to stay close to the fireplace. This need gave birth to the Victorian “armchair with ears”, also known as the “wing chair”. The high back of the chair protects against drafts, and the wing-armrests keep the heat coming from the fireplace.

The interior of the house in the English style presupposes massive, solid furniture. The carved antiques and the Chesterfield sofa with quilted upholstery and decorative buttons will organically fit into the ensemble.

On the walls of the English living room, you will certainly see many family photographs and paintings on the walls. Motives – hunting scenes, portrait painting, still life. And, of course, it is difficult to imagine an Englishman’s house without a fireplace and an impressive library. The library can occupy a separate room or part of the study, the living room: the main thing is that the library area looks cozy, slight negligence in sorting book formats and genres is welcome.