As part of the Commonwealth, it’s not hard to see that Canadians have a soft spot for anything British. I have friends who say William & Kate put England on the map in the fashion and design world, but I am quick to point out that it was actually Harry Potter that kicked off the craze. Bus Roll Signs, Keep Calm posters and of course anything with a Union Jack are the obvious design choices for people who are looking to inject a little UK love into their spaces. However, with the overnight sensation, Downtown Abbey, British Design is really becoming a major player in the design scene. Why the appeal? British interiors, while they can appear to be formal in their appearance are actually very relaxed.  Text by: Meredith Heron of Meredith Heron Design, Photography by Asa Weinstein

WORN, WELL LOVED PIECES:

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Adding a mix of antique or vintage inspired pieces helps make a space feel more layered and less “out of the box - brand new.” The design project was a complete overhaul of the main floor and bathrooms. We opened up the space and added an oversized mirror behind the sofa to gain visual real estate. The furniture, window treatments and floors were all brand new. It felt new - too new, in fact. In order to give it a more lived-in look, we added a vintage teak coffee table, placed worn leather antique suitcases under the table (a great place to store magazines or kids toys) and found this wonderful Queen Anne arm chair (British Period piece) upholstered in burlap and finished with antique nail heads. The deco-inspired sofa and love seat were mixed with textures using decorative pillows and a throw. We also included family heirlooms, such as fine bone china, cut crystal, leather and pattern galore! FLOWERS, FLOWERS & MORE FLOWERS: Floral fabrics, paintings and fresh flowers instantly add a British feel to any room. I especially love chintz which is a polished cotton often sporting a large overall floral pattern. We upholstered an accent chair between the living and dining room in a chintz pattern to create a bit of whimsy. Where to find the British Look? Vintage and antique stores are great places to find little British-inspired odds and ends - tea cups, ornately framed portraits and chairs.

 

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Canadian Home Trends magazine gives you a personal tour of the most stunning homes and condos across Canada. You'll be inspired by a selection of accessible home décor products, trend reports, simple yet stylish DIY projects, and much more. In each issue, you are given the tools to recreate designer spaces you've always dreamt of having at home, in-depth renovation and design advice, colour palette and furniture pairings, and Canada's best places to shop.

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