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 Violet’s new venture, HeritageXplore, brings together Britain’s independently-owned heritage castles and palaces to be admired and visited for the first time.
Insights from Top Designers
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, and why HeritageXplore is a game changer for the field of preservation and interior design. “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.
Experiencing British Heritage
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.
Authenticity and Attention to Detail
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.
Preserving Heritage and Nostalgia
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.
Conclusion
The introduction of HeritageXplore has opened up new opportunities for designers and enthusiasts to experience the grandeur of British heritage homes. As Lady Violet Manners noted, “Texas in general is having a moment, especially Houston….I think we all like bespoke travel increasingly.” With the chance to stay in these historic houses and learn from their owners, HeritageXplore is set to change the way we appreciate and preserve British heritage. As Elias exclaimed, “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.”
