Guest Picks: Inspired by Downton Abbey
Add a nod to Edwardian style with upholstered furniture, damask prints and bone china
Now into its second season on PBS, the Masterpiece classic period drama Downton Abbey has captivated many with its soap-opera drama and cast. Aside from the clash between servants and aristocrats, a great reason for the series' success is the opulent, well-curated set. Many of the scenes are shot on location at Highclere Castle in Hampshire England, and no detail is left unturned.
Set in the Edwardian period of England, after the heaviness, clutter and dark colors of Victorian interiors, people wanted something new and cheerful. Edwardian style was a breath of fresh air with decor in fresh, light floral patterns and pastel colors.
The products in this ideabook are influenced by the English taste that can be described as worldly and eclectic, gathered from travels around the world and founded on beauty, luxury and class. — Lauren from Fourth Floor Walk Up
More: Interiors with a Dash of Downton Abbey Style
Set in the Edwardian period of England, after the heaviness, clutter and dark colors of Victorian interiors, people wanted something new and cheerful. Edwardian style was a breath of fresh air with decor in fresh, light floral patterns and pastel colors.
The products in this ideabook are influenced by the English taste that can be described as worldly and eclectic, gathered from travels around the world and founded on beauty, luxury and class. — Lauren from Fourth Floor Walk Up
More: Interiors with a Dash of Downton Abbey Style
Stefano Chair
The upholstered club armchair is a modern take on an English classic. The rolled arms and tufted back add a little "gentleman's club" to an Edwardian-inspired library.
Carved Mahogany Chippendale Style Side Chair
England is renowned for the origins of Chippendale furniture. Thomas Chippendale, trained in England as a carpenter, created one of the most influential design movements of the 18th century. This dining chair is in the Chippendale style with the ornate lines and exotic silhouette.
Elegant Eating: Four Hundred Years of Dining in Style
With a blending of the decorative arts and social history, this book is an important visual resource of luxurious period table settings. It would be a major resource for someone who would want to re-create the Downton table setting.
Knole Sofa
The Knole Sofa dates to 17th century England as one of the first designs of sofas. The height of the arms and back was originally intended to prevent draughts and, some say, to thwart servants curious about the "elicit affairs" of the Lord and Lady. In Downton Abbey, a Knole is placed in the sitting area of the library.
Kazak Rugs Carpet No. IM-182
This large Persion rug made of natural dyes and hand-spun wool is a beautiful reproduction of an older Oriental rug. English interiors often featured imports, such as this style of rug, from far off lands.
English Tea Table/Candle Stand
An English tea table is a Downton necessity, as there's always time for tea.
French Tapestry Aubusson Pillow
This fine needlepoint tapestry pillow with roses and other floral accents exhibits just the right amount of Edwardian femininity.
Damask Wallpaper
This pastel green damask wallpaper is a wonderful adaptation to the one seen in the Downton Abbey drawing room.
Royal Albert "Old Country Roses" Dinnerware Collection
The Royal Albert "Old Country Roses" Dinnerware Collection is reminiscent of the old English bone china patterns. It's sure to add an aristocratic edge to any table setting.
Goldschmidt Silver Tea Set Service
While living in the Downton spirit, acquiring an heirloom-quality tea set for special occasions can offer your guests a unique experience.
Antique Single Louis XVI French Style Gold Gilt Armchairs
This antique, Louis XVI, French-style, gold gilt armchair is a perfect example of the garnered Edwardian taste. It would be found in the Downton estate drawing room with its formal gilt finish.
19th C. Rococo Iron & Crystal Chandelier, Extra-Large
This remake of a 19th century Rococo iron and crystal chandelier would be an elegant addition to a Downton-inspired interior.
Chinoiserie Vases
Blue and white Chinese porcelain vases and ginger jars have been collected since the 17th century. English aristocrats displayed these coveted items on consoles and mantels as souvenirs from their travels.
A Pair of Derby Porcelain Vases Mounted as Lamps
This is an exquisite pair of porcelain vases mounted as lamps and decorated with colorful flowers and gilt scrolling foliage. Place a large fringe or scalloped lamp shade on top to finish the English beauty.
Cream Scallop Dome Lamp Shade
This is the perfect Victorian lampshade to top off those porcelain table lamps.
Penelope Damask, Pearl
Custom drapery is an important detail within any Edwardian interior. The damask curtains often matched the wallcoverings or, as in the case of Lady Mary's room, the bed linens.
The St Antoine Papers BP 915
Lady Mary's bedroom wallpaper is made of rich hues of reds and blush pinks. This vibrant combination emulates her strong and sensual character that the viewers are so entranced by.
19th Century Cheval Mirror
Vanity is an important aspect in the English lifestyle of the Edwardian period. In order to keep up one's appearance, there must be an equally attractive floor-length mirror.
Camella Brocade Bedding
Similar to the bedding in Lady Mary's room, this ensemble with an elegant, traditional design adds an air of classic opulence to almost any bedroom.
D.R. Dimes Chippendale Writing Table in Tiger Maple
This reproduction, Chippendale-style writing desk is a must for Edwardian lifestyle, as it can be used as both a dressing table and a place to scribe letters to loved ones at war.
This is the cast of Downton Abbey. The characters come in as wide a range as England's interior influences.
Next: Interiors with a Dash of Downton Abbey Style
Next: Interiors with a Dash of Downton Abbey Style