Exploring a fresh perspective on English interiors
As Features Editor at House & Garden, Elizabeth Metcalfe is perfectly positioned to offer insight into the evolving English style of decorating. In her book New English Interiors, she explores its contemporary iteration through 22 fascinating homes, discussing the design choices and decorative flourishes of some of today’s most interesting creatives – from interior designers and illustrators to artists and antique dealers. It’s a celebration of the bold, eclectic, and personal approach that defines modern English interiors today.
We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Elizabeth and ask her what defines the “New English” style and to explore her thoughts on how to create interiors that are full of personality. Whether you’re a professional interior designer or simply passionate about design, Elizabeth’s insights are sure to inspire a fresh perspective on your own spaces.
We’ve illustrated some of the themes raised by Elizabeth with images from our recent campaign shoots. One of the inspiring homes featured in her book is a stunning centuries-old red sandstone farmhouse in Somerset, which also served as the backdrop for our V&A Threads of India Opulent Velvets campaign shoot, and a place we feel especially inspired by.
Q: Elizabeth, what inspired you to write New English Interiors?
A: I was approached by my publisher, Frances Lincoln, to write a book that celebrated the richness of colour and pattern in interiors. From there, it evolved into New English Interiors, where I wanted to showcase how English design is shifting. Traditional English interiors have long been associated with bold patterns and colour, but the “New English” style introduces a slightly looser, fresher approach. It’s about creating spaces that are lively, playful, and reflective of the individual’s personality – making the home feel truly lived in.
Q: The homes in your book often embrace “organised clutter” and personal collections. Why do you think these elements bring so much joy to interiors?
A: The best interiors are those where the owners have let their personalities shine. The beauty of “organised clutter” or curated collections is that they tell a story – whether it’s vintage finds, artwork, or cherished objects from travels. These items create an environment that feels lived in and not over-styled. When you can see what people love to surround themselves with, it adds charm and authenticity. It’s not about perfection but about personal expression.
Q: New English Interiors promotes the idea of “slow decoration.” What advice would you give to someone feeling impatient about letting their home evolve naturally?
A: Slow decoration is about enjoying the process, not rushing it. Great interiors often come together over time. For someone who’s eager to make changes quickly, my advice would be to start by mixing different periods, styles, and price points – old with new, high with low. A few well-chosen antique pieces alongside contemporary finds can create the impression of a space that’s evolved organically, even if it’s just beginning its transformation.
Q: The 22 homes featured in your book mix bold colours and patterns in unexpected ways. Were there any combinations that particularly surprised or inspired you?
A: One of the most delightful surprises was seeing how people draw inspiration from the most unexpected places. For example, illustrator Fee Greening designed her utility room colour based on the dye job of her boyfriend’s hair at the time. It’s those kinds of personal connections to design choices that make a space feel truly unique. Another example is Tobias Vernon’s cottage in Somerset, where the walls were painted a simple white, but the richness of the room came from a carefully chosen collection of pieces – bright rugs, upholstered furniture, and art – that gave the space depth and warmth.
Q: Are there any design “no-nos” you’ve come across when creating a New English interior?
A: In a New English interior, the only “no-no” is trying too hard to follow trends. Design should be led by what brings you joy, not what’s currently “in”. This style is defined by the choices that reflect you personally, and the freedom to make those choices without being concerned about fitting into a certain look. It’s about what feels right for your home and your personality.
Q: For someone trying to achieve a modern English interior look, where would you suggest they start?
A: Start with what makes you happy. If that’s a bright yellow sitting room, then go for it. If you prefer a more neutral backdrop, then let your art and collections bring in the colour. The New English style thrives on collections, so don’t be afraid to rummage – markets, charity shops, and antique fairs are great places to find unique pieces. Let those finds guide the evolution of your space, and trust that it will all come together over time.
Q: Sofas are often the centerpiece of a home. What advice would you give for choosing a sofa that will remain stylish and functional as spaces evolve?
A: When choosing a sofa, make sure comfort is just as important as style. This is where you’ll unwind after a long day, so it needs to support both your practical needs and aesthetic preferences. If you’re aiming for flexibility, I recommend sticking with a neutral, plain fabric for the sofa itself and then layering in patterns and colour through cushions. This way, your sofa can evolve with your style over time, and you can refresh the look whenever you like.
Q: How does your own home reflect your design philosophy?
A: My own home is a work in progress, and I’ve been living with off-white walls for a couple of years. But recently, I’ve started adding colour – my sitting room is now a soft pink, and my bedroom is a glowing yellow that brings me so much joy. I’ve always collected pieces from flea markets, antique fairs, and travels, so my home is filled with objects that carry memories. For me, interiors are about making choices that reflect who you are and what makes you comfortable.
Quickfire Round with Elizabeth Metcalfe
- Velvet or Linen? Linen
- Florals or Stripes? Stripes
- Beamed Cottage or Georgian Townhouse? A bit of both! But if I had to choose, I’d pick a Georgian townhouse for its proportions.
Key takeaways from Elizabeth Metcalfe’s review of the New English style
- Don’t rush the process: Great design evolves naturally. Take your time and enjoy building your space over time.
- Mix it up: Layering old with new, high with low, creates a timeless, collected feel.
- Create a space that reflects you: Whether it’s vibrant colours, a collection of meaningful objects, or a relaxed style, your home should tell your story.
If you’re inspired by Elizabeth’s thoughts on evolving spaces, embracing collections, and mixing periods, why not take a closer look at how we can help you and your clients personalise interior spaces with fabrics and upholstery design details that speak to interests, passions and personal stories.
Take a look too at our recent Uncommon Threads campaign, and follow the personalised sofa journeys of three creative individuals eager to weave their personal stories into beautiful bespoke furniture for their homes.