Growing up in the Cotswolds, English country style is part of my heritage. My childhood home, a charming thatched cottage, was surrounded by picturesque gardens and rolling hills.
As I pursued my Art History studies, I explored the Cotswolds' historic homes and gardens, mesmerized by the warm stone exteriors and character-filled interiors.
Now that I'm on the property ladder, I'm eager to infuse country charm into my own small Cotswold home. To refine my decorating ideas, I consulted some talented British interior designers for insights into capturing authentic English country style, and I've curated a selection of inspiring projects for my mood board.
Creating a stunning country interior revolves around a few key principles, with one of the most important being to draw inspiration from the natural surroundings and utilize organic materials.
'Using natural materials like stone, wood, and woven textures is essential,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe. 'Incorporating textiles such as wool, linen, and cotton adds warmth and texture, fostering a cozy atmosphere.'
This advice extends to color selection as well – choose hues inspired by nature, the experts suggest.
'Nature offers a rich color palette; observe the garden and landscape for various harmonious greens,' advises Emma Sims Hilditch, a master of timeless country aesthetics and founder of Sims Hilditch.
If your property features period details or unique vernacular elements, showcase and restore them as part of your design; they can serve as excellent starting points.
'Respecting the building's architectural features is vital,' explains Lauren Gilberthorpe. 'Exposed beams, original fireplaces, and flagstone floors enhance the property's authentic charm.'
In my renovation, I prioritized restoring my lovely original wood floors, doors, and fireplaces. I sanded the floors to reveal their natural beauty and used untinted Osmo oil to enhance their raw appeal.
Here are my top tips for embracing English country style, with insights from designers.
Select Quality Furnishings from Natural Materials
Investing in high-quality, solid wood furnishings is the best way to create a timeless, functional space. Custom joinery maximizes awkward angles in country homes, while handcrafted pieces like dining tables serve as unique focal points.
'This project aimed to honor the cottage's rich history while providing modern comforts,' says Lauren Gilberthorpe. 'We selected a handcrafted oak dining table as a centerpiece, reflecting the natural materials synonymous with classic country style.'
'Contemporary wingback chairs upholstered in heavyweight linen provide comfort, and bespoke shelving utilizes otherwise unused space for decorative objects and an antique speaker for dinner parties. Oversized pendant lights add contrast and serve as a statement piece,' she adds.
Draw Inspiration from Nature's Colors
For a comforting country-style interior, take cues from nature's hues. This living room in Laura Stephen's stunning Cotswold project, Well Cottage, beautifully blends greens with warm neutrals, enhancing the period features.
'Our client wanted the interior to reflect the outside environment,' explains Laura Stephens. 'We focused on earthy tones and natural materials throughout, especially in the sitting room, avoiding chintzy looks by opting for tartan wool for soft furnishings and trims.'
Highlight Characterful Features
Country homes often possess unique architectural elements that should be preserved and emphasized. In this Sims Hilditch room, beautiful beams are a focal point, complemented by a neutral palette and subtle prints.
'When designing a country home, we always begin with a focal point, like a piece of art or an architectural detail,' shares Chloe Cutts, senior designer at Sims Hilditch. 'Choosing a style and focal point at the outset ensures a cohesive design.'
Incorporate Vintage Elements
Using vintage decor is vital for achieving a relaxed country style. Antique and vintage furniture, with their unique charm, blend wonderfully in kitchens without creating a time warp, especially when paired with well-crafted cabinetry.
Lisa Mehydene, founder of interiors store Edit58, exemplifies this balance, combining timeless shaker cabinets with carefully selected vintage accents for a welcoming, lived-in look.
'While the cabinetry was new (British Standard by Plain English), we added a vintage shop counter from Belgium for serveware storage, a vintage Indian wall cabinet, and a long florists table surrounded by 1930s Thonet Bentwood chairs,' Lisa explains.
'We complemented these with vintage artwork and ceramics, creating a layered, cozy result. The units feel less built-in, allowing the vintage pieces to soften the overall look.'
Introduce Soft Fabrics
Successful country homes emanate warmth and a welcoming vibe. Incorporating soft furnishings and pleated curtains can enhance this atmosphere. Textures like linen, checks, florals, and stripes are staples of country style.
'Linen and checked fabrics evoke nostalgia and practicality, providing a relaxed feel without overly designed elements,' says fabric designer Tori Murphy.
For window treatments, consider cottage pleat curtains. Sink curtains are also making a comeback, offering an attractive way to conceal plumbing with charming prints.
Fill Your Home with Patterns and Personal Touches
During a photoshoot in Vanessa Arbuthnott's Cotswold home, I was struck by her vibrant style. Her barn was adorned with paintings, handcrafted ceramics, and colorful fabrics, creating a feast for the eyes.
This experience taught me that a home should reflect the things we cherish – items that evoke joy and memories. Feel free to mix patterns and styles for an eclectic yet harmonious look.
Utilize Tongue and Groove Paneling
Wood paneling is a classic element of country style that I plan to incorporate. As demonstrated by Laura Stephens, it adds character and is practical for achieving a country aesthetic.
'We aimed to infuse character into this newly added bathroom while ensuring a durable backsplash. Groove paneling met both practical and aesthetic needs,' Laura explains, noting its cost-effectiveness and waterproof features.
Decorate with Arts & Crafts Prints
To add heritage and a connection to nature, consider beautiful Arts & Crafts prints. The Cotswolds has a rich craftsmanship legacy and strong ties to the Arts & Crafts movement, which championed authenticity and simplicity.
This colorful kitchen showcases how a well-chosen wallpaper can serve as a design foundation, with its hints of green and red complementing cabinetry.
Embrace Nature-Inspired Prints
Celebrate the beauty of your surroundings with prints that feature flora and fauna. If you're aiming for Cotswold country style, explore designs from Lewis & Wood, which produces stunning prints in a converted mill in Woodchester. Their Beech design beautifully infuses a bedroom with nature's calming essence.
Channeling English country style requires a focus on nature's influences. Embrace earthy tones, natural materials, and prints inspired by the outdoors for an authentic touch.
When decorating period or country homes, it's crucial to preserve and showcase original features. Elements like fireplaces, beams, stone walls, and authentic windows contribute to a property's character and should be restored whenever possible. Use these features as a foundation for your design, carefully selecting colors and materials to complement them, ensuring a harmonious outcome.
