7 ways to do up your farmhouse in the latest English country manor style

Are you looking to give your farmhouse an opulent yet balanced flair ? Opt for an aristocratic vibe by doing up your farmhouse in the latest English country manor style. It is a style that is traditional, elegant, and always impeccable. At that same time, it exudes warmth, comfort and a love for family—making it the perfect backdrop for spending time with loved ones. We bring you 7 ways to transform your farmhouse into your very own English country manor :

1. Darker colours for a historical feel

The perfect English country look involves a darker colour scheme compared to most contemporary homes. Paint the walls in warmer hues of yellow, pink or green, or cover them in wood panelling. Take inspiration from nature, and paint the walls in warmer hues of yellow and pink from roses in an English garden or the greens from the rolling hills of the countryside. To invite some English drama into your farmhouse keep your floors dark too—opt for browns and red. For a masculine touch, try hues of brown, deep green, dark blue, and deep gold, in addition to rich wine tones.

2. Patterned walls for comfort

When it comes to recreating the English country manor style, start with the walls for an instant makeover. Patterned wallpaper is popular. Though English country style can be busy, it is not overwhelming. Therefore, don’t wallpaper the entire space of your farmhouse, just a wall or two. Pair large prints with smaller ones, like gingham, in similar colour palettes. Consider a toile-patterned wallpaper for a historical and cosy feeling. Floral-print wallpaper is a good bet for evoking a sense of a bright English spring. You can even coordinate your floral wallpaper with the English-style flowery designs on your drapes, cushions and table coverings.

3. Furniture for a touch of vintage

Wood is a popular choice when it comes to the furniture in English country manors. To add authenticity, look out for Victorian or Queen Anne-style furniture. Large wooden tables, chairs, bookshelves and cabinets adorned with carved details are a good bet. When opting for accents, such as the handles on drawers, consider the more traditional brass instead of the contemporary chrome. Since the best English county manors possess a lived-in look which only comes from years of use, you need to make sure that whatever furniture you opt looks well-worn yet sturdy. For a cosy English feel, ensure that your sofas and chairs are deep-seated and comfy. Opt for staples such as a chesterfield sofa and Queen Anne chairs, and pair them with an oak bookcase full of books for the perfect look. Throws and pillows with fringes and ribbons also fit the style perfectly.

4. Mixed upholstery for texture

To add texture to your farmhouse, use upholstery in a mixture of fabrics. Go the hand-embroidered route and opt for needlepoint throw pillows, chair seats or footstools. Or invest in textiles printed with flowery patterns such as chintz, a shiny cotton fabric which is an English country manor favourite. Opt for this floral bouquet fabric in everything from upholstery to draperies and table skirts. You can also stick with cosy fabrics such as tweeds, tartans and some suiting wools, in addition to rich textiles like velvet and damasks—and all can be placed together in the same space. For a tidy look, opt for a button-tufted sofa with pleated roll arms. For a touch of comfort the English way, consider a cushy armchair upholstered in linen velvet, with ruffled pillows.

5. Rugs for lush ambience In English country manors, bare floors tend to be big no.

Patterned rugs are a common sight. However, do not opt for a graphic rug—it can be too modern to integrate into your classic English country setting. Oriental rugs are popular too—a great idea is to cover the floors of your farmhouse with patterned kilims (flat tapestry-woven carpets), or Turkish or Persian carpets.

6. Drapes for cosy warmth

When it comes to window treatments in English country manors, you’re sure to see drapes instead of blinds. The longer your drapes, the better it is. Opt for floral designs as well as opulent fabrics such as velvet. A great idea is choose curtains that correspond to your wallpaper. Looking to achieve some extra privacy in your English country-style space? Opt for shades or window blinds in deep hues of beige and taupe.

7. Collectables for entertainment

An English country style can never be described as minimalist. Rather, classic English manors come across as slightly cluttered spaces that entertain well, thanks to the collectables on full display. Yet there is not a jarring note among the crowd. Start by adding artwork to your walls. Opt primarily for portraits and landscapes, and mix and match as per your liking. Want to keep things fresh? Then try a combination of classic paintings, abstract drawings, and even some pieces of modern photography. Take a look at adding a few brass accessories such as table lamps, along with stacks of books on a table. Or consider placing a set of your antique china in a tray on your sideboard. You can also cover your coffee table with fabric that reaches the floor, and then arrange your favourite china ornaments or a bouquet of flowers on top. Want to exhibit your collectables in the best way possible? Group together matching items, and consider incorporating some antique tables, cabinets and dressers for a traditional English showcase. If done well, the English country design of your farmhouse can make you feel right at home. After all, one of the great hallmarks of such spaces is that they look well-loved and well-lived in, which is exactly what you should be aiming for while following our 7 tips.