How To Make Traditional Interiors Feel Fresh & Inviting

“One of the main components of the English traditional style is the combination of materials, finishes, patterns and textures. Sometimes the art is not overthinking everything too much and choosing things that are made and designed well.” –  Octavia

“I’m particularly fond of rattan, which we use extensively at Sharland England. It’s a natural material that really softens a room. Antique wood has a lovely patina which brings warmth, while sisal or vintage flatweave rugs are a timeless layer too.” – Lousie

“Try mixing printed upholstery with woven fabrics, adding vintage textiles wherever possible. Even a lampshade made from antique sari silk can make a difference. Layering rugs is another clever trick – try a large jute rug beneath a smaller antique design in rich reds or browns. And don’t feel obliged to match every metal finish. Antique brass, bronze and silver can happily coexist.” – Jess

"Natural materials are incredibly important to me. Wood, linen, wool, velvet and metals all bring warmth and texture to a room, and I like combining materials with very different finishes and light reflecting qualities. Antique brass brings warmth, while natural or stained warm woods introduce a raw element that works with any colour scheme." – Alice

“Florals, ticking stripes, checks, chintz – traditional interiors have never shied away from pattern. The secret is knowing how to use them without overwhelming a room. English country houses were awash with different patterns in the same room. What helps them sing rather than clash is a common thread running throughout the colour palette, often in slightly softer, muted tones.” – Louise

“Try varying the scale of each pattern while ensuring there’s at least one colour connecting them. You can use stripes, florals and checks in the same room. A good way to experiment with this, without going all in, is to mix fabrics in your sofa cushions. Once you feel more confident, you can add in fabrics for window dressings and other soft furnishings too.” – Jess

“Don’t forget you can also introduce plenty of plains to give the eye somewhere to rest. Of course, if you're feeling brave, an entirely patterned room can look fabulous too. The important thing is to be confident with your choices rather than worrying about everything matching perfectly.” – Octavia

"Introducing pattern doesn't always make a room feel busier. Sometimes a patterned fabric or wallpaper can actually make a space feel more harmonious by bringing together the different colours within it." – Alice

Perhaps the most appealing thing about heritage interiors is that they don’t need to look new. In fact, a little wear and tear is positively encouraged. Choose what you love. If you fall for a chest of drawers with a drawer pull missing or scratches on the top, it doesn’t matter. One of my favourite paintings is a little oil of the mountains, which I found in a charity shop for £10 and I gave it a beautiful antique frame.” – Louise

“For me, the magic lies in combining old finds with newer pieces. This combination of ‘the new’ with ‘the found’ results in a more relaxed and layered look which feels like home as opposed to a show home.” – Jess

“A traditional interior should reflect its owner rather than follow a formula. The traditional English country style is about the mixing of styles, which pieced together highlights what sort of collector you are." – Octavia

"You don't need a room full of antique furniture to create a heritage feel. Sometimes a single vintage chair or an interesting piece of furniture is enough. Look for beautiful proportions, interesting details and materials that will age well. Above all, it's important to buy things because you love them." – Alice