How To Nail English Country Style, According To Interior Designers

Glittering penthouses and island retreats might be luxurious, but there’s nothing like a bit of English country charm. And with the triumphant renaissance of cottagecore interiors (curated clutter, anyone?), you might want to keep an eye on all the latest trends. Here’s what’s new in the world of country interiors – and how to achieve the English country house look.

Country Home Design Trends: How To Get The English Country House Look

Antiques & Artisanal Pieces

VSP Interiors (c) Paul Massey

Buzzy trends might come and go, but the real basis of the country house look? Quality and tradition. It seems classical details are as valuable as ever to interior designers working on country properties. 

‘Prioritising quality over transient styles ensures that a home remains beautiful and relevant for many years to come,’ says Henriette von Stockhausen, founder and creative director of VSP Interiors. ‘I’ve noticed a growing emphasis on quality and the incorporation of timeless antiques. There’s also a resurgence in classical detailing, with clients increasingly requesting elements like trimmings and a more relaxed, less tailored aesthetic that prioritises comfort.’

‘We’re witnessing a return to traditional design, with many clients requesting classic woodwork and decorative details,’ agrees Philippa Thorp, founder of Thorp. ‘In a shift from the recently favoured minimalist look, people are embracing warmth and personality by investing in impeccable craftsmanship. More than ever, they recognise the value in artisanal pieces and want to support talented makers with centuries-old skills – rather than buying mass-produced items.’

‘People want their homes to tell a story,’ Henriette adds. ‘Incorporating antique textiles, where possible, is a wonderful way to achieve this, rather than opting for a space where everything feels brand new.’

Regency Bathrooms

Bobbi Beck

Following on from the regency kitchen craze, regency bathrooms are set to be a popular choice for country homes this year. ‘Country bathrooms will be inspired by the market’s ongoing love of maximalist decor and the perennial charm of the Regency era,’ predicts Clive Griffiths, manager at Grange Design. 

But what does the Regency look actually entail? ‘It’s all about bold patterns and darker colour palettes,’ Clive states. ‘We’re finding that character is being introduced through fixtures and fittings, with designer brassware, over-the-top window dressings and statement tiles coming out on top. Look for ornate basin taps with strong curves, solid brass construction and classic capstan-style or ceramic handles.’

Brass & Bronze

Abode

Speaking of designer fittings, brass and bronze are a vital part of the English country house look. ‘These traditional touches continue to hold their own in both modern and classic kitchen spaces, and we predict a growing demand for high quality brassware in country homes,’ confirms Dan Biddle, product manager at Abode. 

‘In country home design, the choice of hardware finish plays a huge role in shaping the overall aesthetic – and we anticipate a strong preference for antique brass finishes,’ adds Mark Harper, senior product designer at Joseph Giles. ‘These elements offer a characterful, aged appearance, imbuing country homes with timeless charm. Their warmer tones also complement the earthy palettes often found in country interiors.’

Skirted Sofas

VSP Interiors (c) Simon Brown

Another country home design staple? Skirted sofas – at least according to the team at Andrew Martin.

‘Skirted sofas are currently enjoying a resurgence, especially in country homes, forming part of a broader trend toward timeless design and creating interiors that feel inviting and homely,’ notes Mike Durbridge, the brand’s CEO. ‘Originally, sofa skirts were used in traditional upholstery to conceal structural elements, but they quickly became a hallmark of refined design. Skirted sofas are particularly well-suited to country homes and classic family spaces, where they create a relaxed, layered aesthetic. They also work beautifully in transitional interiors, balancing traditional and contemporary elements.‘

Wall Murals

Bobbi Beck

Last year, experts pegged intricate wallcoverings and murals as emerging trends, and both seem to have swept right into the world of country interiors – especially when it comes to pastoral scenes. 

‘One of the most prominent trends is landscape-inspired wall decor,’ says James Mellan-Matulewicz, CEO and creative director of Bobbi Beck. ‘Panoramic murals featuring pastoral views or delicate botanicals bring a sense of depth and serenity to country interiors, transforming walls into dynamic focal points. The effect is both grounding and luxurious, evoking the calm of the countryside within the home.’

Exposed Hardware

Abode

While luxe minimalism might be all the rage in modern kitchens, country homes enjoy a more rustic feel – which means exposed hardware and plenty of ornate detailing.

‘A particularly notable trend is the preference for visible cabinet handles and pulls in kitchens, living areas and dressing rooms,’ says Mark. ‘Unlike the sleek, concealed options popular in contemporary designs, exposed hardware adds to the decorative aspect of country spaces. Handles and knobs with detailed craftsmanship become focal points, creating a tactile experience and celebrating functional beauty.’