Friday, September 20, 2013

Set to life: Downton Abbey

If you love Downton Abbey as much as I do, you are probably enamored not only by the tremendous actors and detailed costumes, but the house itself. 

You may have wondered what it would be like to live in the early 1900's and how you could incorporate that look into your own home.  We live in a wonderful time where there are so many styles of furniture available to us. All it takes is a little imagination, a bit of a modern twist and you could be waking up every morning in your very own English Manor. Matthew not included...RIP. 

Our inspiration!





Our look!

Source: Crate and Barrel

First, you will need a rolled arm sofa.  A practical bench seat will allow for maximum guests.  Keep the sofa neutral and bring in pattern with pillows and area rugs.


Source: Esalerugs.com

Next, let's layer in a great Persian rug.  

Source: Pottery Barn

Instead of a standard coffee table, let's do a tufted ottoman. You will be able to place a tray on top for serving.  

Source: Neman Marcus

Add in some wooden accent tables.  If you have any hand me downs from your parents or grand parents, here is great place to use them!

Source: Pottery Barn

A great, weathered leather chair will be perfect for late night reading. 

Source: Ballard Designs

Metal lamps will contrast nicely with the wood tables.


Source: Pottery Barn

Dress your windows in a silk drapery that go to the floor. Extra length if you want to be really dramatic!


Source: Wisteria

Select some modern embroidered pillows in a pop of color. This will keep your sofa feeling fresh and not too serious.


Source: Wisteria

Accessorize with blue and white pottery.


Source: Restoration Hardware

Pressed botanicals add a natural element and a nod to the gardens.



Use your antique portraits in clusters to create full walls of art.

Source: Walnut Wallpaper

Bonus Points!  Add a patterned wallpaper to one (JUST ONE) wall as an accent.  You'll thank me, trust me!  A modern print will keep the room from feeling stuffy.

I hope you enjoyed this modern living room based on Downton Abbey!

Cheers! - Vee

*Need help with your own home?  Contact us at virginia@virginiabdesign.com and check out our website at www.virginiabdesign.com 

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