We’re (Ardently) In Love With The ‘Austenmania’ Interiors Trend
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3 hours ago
The Regency design craze is back
It might not be a truth that’s quite universally acknowledged, but we like to think that the Georgian era is the epitome of elegance – so it’s no surprise that the ‘Austenmania’ trend is taking the interior design world by storm. Here’s what you need to know.
Inside The ‘Austenmania’ Interiors Trend
Nicola Harding
When the design experts at Etsy predicted the rise of the ‘literary girl’ aesthetic, they envisioned immaculately styled bookshelves, cosy corners, and reading nooks. But it was only a matter of time before this particular aesthetic took inspiration from the great hero admired by any true literary girl: Jane Austen.
It’s true, of course, that the Regency design trend has already made its mark, from the enduring popularity of English country style to the resurgence of chintz fabrics and elaborate wallcoverings. So what makes Austenmania different?
Well, although it contains many classic Georgian design influences, the trend takes direct pointers from Austen’s rich literary world: it’s Regency chic with a story to tell.
Schumacher
Take romantic wallpaper designs like the Mr Darcy-inspired patterns from Schumacher. ‘Designer Johnson Hartig was inspired by Pride and Prejudice when he imagined Mr. Darcy in Pemberley Green, a three-part panel set that offers a bird’s-eye view of a quaint English hamlet,’ says Dara Caponigro, Schumacher’s creative director. ‘Based on original artwork, this wallpaper evokes 18th-century engravings with its meticulous details and hand-coloured look. Our studio devoted more than 250 hours to the creation of its fantastical combination of architectural and landscape elements; it’s brimming with bucolic charm.’
When it comes to furniture, meanwhile, you can expect handsome neoclassical pieces – the kind that Elizabeth Bennett would deem perfectly suitable for lounging in (armed with a few tomes, of course).
Max Rollitt
‘The Regency period interiors saw hints of neoclassicism, and we often witness Austen’s characters reclining on a chaise longue or a bed with curled ends,’ comments designer and antiques expert Max Rollitt. ‘Such furniture was often made of mahogany and rosewood.’
And the colour palette? Aside from the soft earthy tones used to evoke those all-important bucolic scenes, there were two standout colours in the Regency world. ‘Blue was a popular colour during the Regency period, and it was often used alongside shades of yellow,’ explains interior designer Nicola Harding. Think dusky blue walls accented by pops of canary – finished with a few leatherbound books for a real Austen-approved space…
The Austenmania Edit
Featured image courtesy of Will Green. william-green.co.uk
