Introduction to British Design
Houston anglophiles are having their moment in the spotlight. For the last few years, British-inspired Maximalism, Cottage Core, and Dark Academia have dominated Instagram and Pinterest boards. Even restaurants and private clubs have been designing with a not-too-subtle nod to the British. Local interior designers who have been long-inspired by design and architecture from across the pond are more popular than ever.
The Allure of British Style
While books, museums, and hit period shows and films can be great sources of inspiration, designers, architects, and lay people yearn for more. Recently, top Houston designers were invited to tea at Park House to meet The Duchess of Rutland and her daughter Lady Violet Manners as they discussed how their new venture, HeritageXplore, brings together Britain’s independently-owned heritage castles and palaces to be admired and visited for the first time.
What Draws Designers to British Style
CultureMap caught up with designers Courtnay Tartt Elias of Creative Tonic, senior designer Kelsey Ralph of Meg Lonergan Interiors, and Hallie Henley Sims — all self-proclaimed anglophiles — to discuss the magnetism of British style. “The British are truly having a moment right now with all of the beautiful prints coming out of England and by heritage British fabric companies and current British designers,” says Elias. “I adore color and pattern…and the British have a way with color because their light is so different across the pond, especially compared to Texas.”
The HeritageXplore Experience
The ability of HeritageXplore to allow small groups to stay overnight and experience these stately homes firsthand creates an opportunity for guests to understand how these spaces function as well as how they’re able to stand alone in their designs, while maintaining continuity. “Even some of the most formal rooms, for example the Elizabeth Saloon at Belvoir Castle, tend to feel so ‘lived in’ and comfortable and relaxed…and there is always something to be learned from actually experiencing one of these great places,” says Elias.
Learning from British Heritage Houses
Houstonians who seek out top designers with a penchant for designing perfectly-executed, British-style rooms expect authenticity — and there is no doubt that designers are seeking out ways to absorb how these generational homes live and breathe. “From cornices to curtain trims to how art is hung in libraries to unique hardware pieces on doors and in bathrooms, British heritage houses are a masterclass in the magic of small design moves,” says Elias.
Bringing British Style to Houston
Designer Kelsey Ralph points out that living in a city that is younger than most of these properties lends itself to a sense of wonder and fascination: “Who isn’t inspired by centuries-old architecture and design? Most heritage homes are older than Houston itself…and there’s so much to learn from the historic perspectives and stories integrated in the homes.” Houstonians wanting to acquire some of that nostalgia and authenticity are also able to do so through a wallpaper collection created during a restoration at Belvoir Castle.
A Unique Opportunity for Designers
Designer Hallie Henley Sims looks forward to all that can be learned by opening these private homes for the first time: “I loved the candor and candidness of Lady Violet and Her Grace’s chat. I felt like a bit of a voyeur peeking into their personal world and residence, Belvoir Castle. In a way I think that’s what HeritageXplore enables for its participants: the chance to see into the rarefied and fantastical world of the British aristocracy.”
Conclusion
The two tours a year will never be exactly the same as the 50-plus homes that have signed on for the experience will be swapped in and out for every five day, six castle stay. Elias is exceedingly excited about all that will be carefully observed and absorbed from these grand designs and what she can bring home to Houston: “I am incredibly impressed and excited about Lady Violet’s venture, HeritageXplore, which gives travelers access to so many privately owned and managed British Heritage properties. I will 100 percent get a group of design-loving friends and clients to take one of her trips in the next year!”
