The shared desire for romantic escape seems more intense than ever before. A few much-anticipated historical dramas promise to soon satiate this longing.
Downton Abbey 3
to
Netflix’s
Pride and Prejudice
limited series
Captivating tales such as these thrive thanks to refined settings. Within grand estates, protagonists recline on delicate floral couches; heavy gold-framed oil portraits decorate almost every surface; sumptuous curtains soften four-poster beds and frame windows showcasing vistas of the English countryside.
Consider it serendipitous that the increasing longing for all of this in 2025 aligns perfectly with the
250-year mark since Jane Austen’s birth
Fans continually revisit the celebrated author’s works because they are rich with lavish settings where engrossing stories come to life, from
Sense and Sensibility
to
Emma
to
Persuasion.
However, once more, the captivating interiors within these stories are transcending the pages and screens. We might as well dub it an Austentatious resurgence.
While
Bridgerton
might have ignited the first interest in
Regencycore
This aesthetic enhances the allure. Austere yet attractive interiors are characterized by an array of elements ranging from heritage-influenced furnishings to intricate wallpapers. In contemporary applications, the focus leans towards subtler embellishments, with the ambiance hinging on nuanced details that convey sophistication: thoughtfully placed trimmings, eye-catching light fixtures, and arrangements of freshly cut blooms. The maximalist approach welcomes these additions.
intentional clutter
. Every surface is covered with beloved objects and collections, whether it be leather-bound books or taper candles in special holders.
To embrace Austentatious interiors,
Max Rollitt
A designer located in Winchester, England, highlights furniture crafted from prevalent Regency-era materials such as mahogany and rosewood, serving as a solid base. Such pieces are ideally discovered at antique stores, allowing buyers to thoroughly assess them in person. “The interior design during the Regency era incorporated elements of neoclassicism, and Jane Austen’s characters were frequently depicted lounging on chaise longues or sleeping on beds featuring curved footboards,” explains Rollitt.
The London-based designer Nicola Harding suggests focusing on the color scheme. “During the Regency era, blue frequently accompanied yellow,” she explains. However, there are numerous additional options to consider.
soft yet spirited shades
If you prefer, you can soak the walls with shades of blush pink, lavender, or pearl gray. Blues and greens particularly catch the eye in Austen adaptations. For instance, consider the seafoam green dining room from
Emma
(2020) to the room with turquoise decor
Persuasion
In 2022, lively paint hues transform these traditional areas into more relaxed environments.
Wallpapers inspired by nature boost the overall impact. For example, consider textiles from the company Schumacher.
Pride and Prejudice
Inspired by wallpaper set for release in early 2025, this creation comes from Johnson Hartig, the brains behind the fashion label Libertine. The triptych-style pattern presents a birds-eye look at an 18th-century English hamlet. Appropriately titled “Mr. Darcy,” it features elements such as an aristocratic manor, meticulously kept gardens, a gothic church, quaint cottages scattered over gentle slopes, and a tranquil body of water off in the distance. Its handcrafted appearance lends the piece the air of being an authentic relic from centuries past. As Hartig shared, “It feels like you might spot Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet wandering through the misty fields right here; perhaps they’d meet near those two houses depicted within the wall covering.”
Vogue
.
In the world of textiles, an Illinois-based designer
Andrea Goldman
She notes an increase in tone-on-tone embroidery and the application of “ditsy prints,” characterized as petite patterns. They particularly appreciate this type of embroidery since it creates a sense of design subtly, not overpowering the viewer. During the Regency period, such designs often included trellis or vine motifs; however, contemporary interpretations offer greater flexibility with various pattern choices.”
Goldman recently opted for a sheer white fabric adorned with white embroidery when designing window shades for the service kitchen and laundry room in a Florida residence. “Sheer fabrics were quite prevalent during the Regency era and continue to find their place within contemporary interior designs.”
Another material suggestion from Goldman for achieving Austen-themed decor?
Upholstered walls
In a bedroom or
home movie theater
The rich, appealing details can create an extraordinarily luxurious atmosphere.
Regardless of whether you wholeheartedly adopt the allure or just incorporate a hint of magic, Austen-esque decor acts as your pathway to bringing romance into daily life. In a time when disturbing occurrences happen often, this aesthetic provides a welcome respite and a feeling of comfort.
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