Create an ideabook for your next remodeling project!
Browse more than 1,000,000 photos from top designers and save your favorites
Wedding Fever: Brit Design on the Mind
Union Jacks and More Fly High as Royal Wedding Draws Near
It's all right ... you can admit it … you've caught Royal Wedding fever. Even the most cynical bystander has to admit that it's pretty fascinating. From the dress, to the gifts, to the ridiculous souvenirs, there's a part of each of us that's at least a little curious about this over-the-top ordeal. Of course the Brits aren't just known for their outrageous royal shenanigans — they also have a pretty fabulous sense of style. With beautiful interiors that are a combination of extravagance and functionality, it's no wonder that these British design elements are still in fashion.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
The ultimate symbol of the British monarchy, the Union Jack has come to have more of a rebellious connotation — maybe due to the punk rock efforts of bands like The Clash and The Who — than its original prim and proper roots. Here, a sleek gray living room gets a kick from a unique neutral Union Jack pillow, and a colorful piece of art with an adorable (and equally English) bulldog.
The beauty of international flags is that the consistent use of similar colors means you can mix and match pretty easily (at least when it comes to decorating). This room does a great job of blending the Union Jack with the Stars and Stripes.
|
by KellyBaron
»
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| The traditional colorway of the Union Jack makes it a great accessory choice for any decorating style. It works great as a pillow in this cabin… |
by Dear Designer
»
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
… and an all-red version is the perfect pop of color in this feminine bedroom. For a more masculine look, a square set of Union Jack pillows like these would look amazing on a worn brown leather couch.
The Windsor chair is a beautiful example of superb British furniture design. Distinguished by a solid wooden seat, which the back and leg parts are affixed to, there is an American version of the Windsor chair, but the UK was one of its major centers of production. Due to its straight back and armless option, its often used as seating in a dining room, as is this Americanized chair from Restoration Hardware.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
This style of the Windsor chair, with arms and an extended headrest, is a bit too large for a dining set, but works great as a side chair in a more formal seating area.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Sitting areas and dining rooms were — and often still are — an important part of British home design. Long dining room tables that can seat large groups of people are vital for entertainment purposes.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Tea time is such a valued tradition in the UK, and a beautiful set for serving your afternoon tea is a must. The modern lines make this silver set quirky and playful. This silver-plated teapot is a bit more traditional, and can be monogrammed for extra flair.
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| Although typically associated with Scotland, plaid and tartan actually originated in ancient Britain. This flash of old-school red plaid in such a modern setting is a suprising tribute to a timeless British textile. |
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Even though plaid is generally considered a formal fabric, it can add a sense of casual elegance when used unexpectedly. For a look similar to the previous photo, check out this beautiful tartan throw from Pendleton.
Tell us! What are your favorite British design trends? Is the Kate and Will media frenzy making you lust after any extravagantly English accessories? Share your wish list and photos below.
If you've got a serious case of Royal Wedding fever, be sure to check out 8 Ways to Decorate For Kate Middleton and Prince William
More: I Spy: Union Jacks
Tell us! What are your favorite British design trends? Is the Kate and Will media frenzy making you lust after any extravagantly English accessories? Share your wish list and photos below.
If you've got a serious case of Royal Wedding fever, be sure to check out 8 Ways to Decorate For Kate Middleton and Prince William
More: I Spy: Union Jacks
Ideabook published on April 20, 2011.
What are you working on?
News From Our Partners
Latest Ideabooks
People found the photos in this ideabook after searching for:
View over a million photos:
My brother just visited from home, and I used a big Union Jack flag as an additional level of shower curtain to help make him feel at home. I'd love to do a Union Jack and a US flag on the outside of my porch, either side of my front door, since my hubby is American, I think it'd be a good way to represent our two cultures.
I do love our Stars and Stripes, but there's something so beautiful and classic about the Union Jack. You should definitely put both flags up though! I love the way the way Old Glory and Union Jack look together.