Guest Picks: Modern Takes on Sherlock Style
Get some clues from the set design of the BBC's popular series 'Sherlock' for a modernized take on classic British style
The smash BBC series Sherlock is great television, and the richly detailed set design is a standout too, with its clever modern take on the Victorian London of the original Sherlock Holmes stories. Give your own space the same stylish mix of old and new with accessories that would be right at home at 221B Baker Street. — Lori from automatism
Nureyev Wallpaper
This richly patterned wallpaper from Zoffany's Nureyev collection can be seen in Holmes and Watson's living room, and it really sets the tone for the space. The dark chocolate version was used, but it's available in three other colorways too.
LC3 Grand Modele Armchair, Dark Gray
No challenging cases to think about? Collapse with boredom comfortably into this down-filled LC3 Grand Modele Armchair. Designed in 1928, it became an instant classic — and these days it also comes in a huge range of colors.
Deer Skull Fine Art Photography Print by Jenna Zee
Skulls are a definite decor motif in the main lounge of Sherlock and John's flat. There's a human skull on the mantel, a skull print near the sofa and a bison skull sporting earphones. This delicately beautiful print of a found female deer skull by Jenna Zee on Etsy offers a softer approach, with its focus on the sculptural qualities of its subject matter.
UK & Ireland Map - Home Sweet Home Teapot
When your arch enemy drops by for tea, serve it in style with this beautiful teapot by Ali Miller. I love the mix of a traditional silhouette with pop art decoration — it's unexpected and lovely.
Malabah Bath Oil
Unwind after a long day of sleuthing in a relaxing bath scented with Malabah Bath Oil from Penhaligon's. The heady mix will soothe away even the most perplexing problems of the day.
Union Jack Cushion
Add a patriotic note to your space with this bold Union Jack Cushion from An Angel at My Table.
Vintage Salt and Pepper Shakers from Last Prize Vintage
Watson adds a little style as well as seasoning to his morning eggs and bacon with a set of Danish, midcentury modern, stainless steel–and-wood salt and pepper shakers. This set from Last Prize Vintage on Etsy is a close match and would add a dash of elegance to your own breakfast too.
1635 Map of Great Britain and Ireland
Add vintage style to your lounge with this reproduction of a 1635 map of the British Isles by Dutch cartographer Williem Blaeu. I love the beautiful calligraphy and wonderful details like the tiny sailing ships.
Tools 4 Litre Casserole
Making a delicious risotto for supper is easy enough to do in the beautiful Tools casserole designed by Björn Dahlström. It's elegant enough to serve from too (if you can find room on the table around all the lab equipment).
1870 Gorgeous Antique Victorian Bat Engraving by Vintage Treasure Shop
Sherlock and John might like to decorate their lounge with a shadow box containing a stuffed bat and beetles. When it comes to adding a gothic touch, I much prefer this delicate, original 1870 antique bat engraving by French naturalist Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon.
VASEN Vase
Occasionally the landlady Mrs. Hudson must have a bit of influence on the decor at 221B Baker Street — a vase of flowers on the lounge coffee table is surely her idea. The simple and elegant Vasen Vase from Ikea suits everything from the humblest wildflowers to the grandest bouquets.
Manoir Bed
After a long day of racing after clues through the streets of London, sleep will be even sweeter in a graceful sleigh bed like the Manoir design from And So To Bed. I love how this looks good in both traditional and modern interiors.
Signature Linen Bedding
Luxurious pure-linen sheets will be appreciated all the more when you need to sleep off an unwary encounter with a femme fatale.
Samtid Floor/Reading Lamp, Nickel Plated/White
On rainy days when clients aren't expected, curl up in a comfortable chair by the fire and browse through your vintage copy of Memoirs of a Bow Street Runner under the gentle glow of this lamp from Ikea.
Antique Johann Wolfgang von Goethe Steel Engraving by Vintage Goodness
Sherlock is a definite admirer of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, as can be seen from the bust displayed prominently in his room. This lovely antique steel engraving of Goethe dates from 1873 and would offer elegant inspiration every day.
Four Vintage Metal Egg Cups by Millie's Miscellany
Start your day as stylishly as John Watson does with a soft-boiled egg in a classic stainless steel egg cup. This set of four vintage egg cups is a close match to the ones used on the show, and they look great mixed with classic white china too.
Pocketwatch Clock
This is the sort of clock I can imagine finding in the hallway of 221B Baker Street — a modern black clock styled like a Victorian pocket watch. It has such a great mix of old and new.
Celine Pillow
A scattering of cushions on the sofa adds to the comfort of Sherlock's afternoon nap. This pretty hand-embroidered chain-stitch pillow from Judy Ross Textiles would definitely make it a more stylish one too.
Juuri Storage Jar Medium, Smoke
With a crime-solving roommate who doesn't think twice about storing the most gruesome exhibits in the refrigerator, Watson might want to invest in some good storage jars for the groceries. The beautifully designed glass Juuri Storage Jar series lets you see at a glance what's inside, so no more unpleasant surprises!
Clue, Parker Brothers Vintage Game Collection
On the show, you can see the game board for Cluedo, the British version of Clue, impaled with a knife over the mantel. I wouldn't recommend playing this with Sherlock, but your own friends would most likely be much more relaxed about the game rules. This vintage version comes in a wood box and would make a great addition to family game night.
Next: Decorating Around the World: British Style Charms Any Home
Next: Decorating Around the World: British Style Charms Any Home