Inspiration
Are you as addicted to Downton Abbey as I am? Season 3 premiered last weekend, and I can't wait for the next episode. Filmed at Highclere Castle and set at the end of the Edwardian Era, Downton’s interiors encompass the eclectic range of styles and influences from the late Victorian to late Edwardian era. While I adore the story, it's the interiors, furniture, luscious fabrics and gorgeous clothing that keeps me waiting with great anticipation each week.
Obviously as enamored with soft, pastel colors as we are, the rooms are filled with antique furniture pieces upholstered in rich brocades, floral patterns, gilt mirrors, and chandeliers to reflect and catch the light. Then there are the pillows, the antique books, the silver tea services, and all things that make our heart beat faster. The beautiful feminine style is balanced with just a few darker wooden pieces to make the interiors classic, and not too overdone. And let me just point out those stunning chandeliers again!
A close up of the chandelier in the drawing room room, above, literally dripping with cut crystal prisms, to reflect the light a thousand times around the room. The Grantham family loves gilt details, the moldings in this room are grandly embellished with gilt, the French style chairs, the frames, all subtle but elegantly done. Since electric lighting was just beginning to be introduced in these grand homes, most chandeliers were converted at the time.
In the Edwardian era Downton Gothic inspired salon, the color palette is slightly darker. This was the center of most of the family's social gatherings. Unusual wall coverings in this room are made of leather, note the huge fireplace, and the japanned chests so beloved by the Victorians. Such a beautiful space to entertain guests!
The Music Room features beautifully polished wood floors layered with rich oriental rugs, the baroque ceiling was painted by Francis Hayman in the 1730’s. On the walls, Italian 16th century Italian embroideries, beautifully ornate. The love of gilt abounds, from the frames of the chairs to the details all around, set off perfectly by the simple English Tea Table. {notice the French Toleware flower container too!}
One of the many guest bedrooms on the south side of the home. Again, gilt touches bring grace an elegance to this room, with the Bergeres Chairs, and the ornate French Mirror. Another fireplace for warmth, and sumptious Lace hangings on the bed make this a wonderful room for a guest. {maid included!}
Downton Abbey has brought back our love for the charming Edwardian era. There is no reason why you can't adopt a little of the Granthams’ inimitable elegant style into your own home! There are opportunities grande and small....start with a silver teapot & a collection of delicate porcelain teacups, or go grand scale with a pair of elegant French Bergeres, then add chandeliers, antique vanities, a lovely oil painting or two. Don't neglect your boudoir, either, with vanities, dressing sets, even gloves and jewelry. Below are our top choices for getting that charming Downton look:
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