CLASSIC GEORGIAN HOUSE

How to dress your Georgian Home.

The Georgian period style has influenced nearly all home decor styles that followed in interior design for generations. It is characterized by a unique blend of colors, materials, and finishes inspired by both French and Italian aesthetics. Georgian homes are rich in history, craftsmanship, and fine architectural details.

If you own a Georgian home and are wondering how to preserve its heritage, or if you admire the Georgian style and want to replicate it in your own home, Saint and Noire can help. With over two decades of experience in redesigning luxurious Georgian residences—from mansions to townhouses and city apartments—we are here to assist you in reimagining the elegance of the Georgian era.

The Georgian era was prominent from 1714 to 1837 and significantly influenced by the British Royal Family. Buckingham Palace was built during this time with the intention of being "spacious and comfortable, with grand proportions and a heightened sense of space and light." These elements continue to define the concept of Georgian interior design today.

No.1 Lighting Georgian Interiors

To enhance the distinctive architecture of Georgian homes, it’s important to embrace natural light. This can be achieved by incorporating large open windows and using a variety of ornate mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of a more spacious area.

When Georgian homes were originally built, electricity did not exist, so the emphasis was on natural light. During this period, decorative elements like lanterns, candlesticks, and candelabra provided “uplighting,” allowing for a smooth transition from day to night. Georgian homes often feature traditional fireplaces, which serve as additional sources of light and comfort.

With effective indoor lighting, the interiors can radiate warmth, but it’s equally important for the exterior to work harmoniously with the interior. Outdoor lighting should be warm and inviting, promoting a sense of balance. In today’s world, lighting plays a crucial role in creating atmosphere and relaxation while celebrating the unique architecture of Georgian buildings. "Downlighting," or statement ceiling fixtures, can blend traditional and contemporary designs. Additionally, wall lamps or accent lighting can be strategically placed to highlight furniture and delineate different areas within an open floor plan.

No.2  Authentic Materials

Bare oak timber floorboards and exquisite marble stone floors once graced the luxurious homes of the Early Georgian era. As time evolved, opulent oriental rugs found their way into the residences of the affluent, followed by the introduction of fitted carpets in the wake of the Industrial Revolution. To embrace the beauty of rustic style, consider wooden flooring paired with traditional rugs in your living spaces, while opting for stone flooring in the kitchen and hallway. Above ground level, neutral-toned carpets can create a serene atmosphere. Pale stone flooring beautifully complements darker furniture, and coordinating it with the walls enhances the cohesive color palette, accentuating the architectural features such as the elegant staircases typical of Georgian homes. If you are fortunate enough to have vintage Georgian wooden floors, seek expert guidance to preserve their original charm and qualities.

No.3 Furnishings Selection

To add an element of grand regency to your Georgian renovation, consider using gold metallic paint for gliding, along with gold frames and furniture. These details will coordinate effortlessly. The key is to blend the soft furnishings harmoniously with the colors of the walls and floors to maintain a sense of fluidity.

It is essential to choose an authentic Victorian paint color scheme that will elegantly elevate your Georgian home and portray a sense of "Palladian" opulence. A modern interpretation should feature a simple and muted color palette with soft, subtle tones and matte finishes—such as sage green, dusky pinks, soft greys, sky blue, and beiges. While bold colors like navy and teal can be powerful choices, they should not be entirely dismissed. They can create striking feature walls and furniture pieces in a quintessential British home.

Many paint companies offer “heritage” paint collections, which include pre-selected colors to help guide your decision-making. During the Georgian period, there was a notable experimentation with international influences and colors, particularly in antique decorative elements such as prints. This included styles inspired by Egyptian, Indo-Chinese, and Greek designs, which worked well with plain-colored English furniture, resulting in a beautiful and layered aesthetic for a bright home.

No.4 Smart Home

During the Georgian era, television did not exist, but in today's world and the future, technology is essential for a functioning home. To maintain the Georgian interior decor while incorporating smart home technology, it's crucial to integrate modern media in a way that preserves style and harmonizes with classic features. “Integrating any technology must complement the historical building and align with the client’s vision. Today, smart device applications can control every aspect of the home, including heating, lighting, security cameras, and appliances—essentially everything. It feels like magic: with a voice command like 'Good morning,' the blinds open automatically, the washing machine starts, the coffee maker brews, and music begins to play throughout the house.” — Lenka Marsh, Founder of Saint & Noire

No.5 Classic Cabinetry and Accessories

You don’t need an expert eye to recognize the timeless beauty of genuine Georgian furniture and antique styles. Though these styles have evolved over the centuries, shaped by royal reigns from King George to Queen Anne, the unique trends of Neo-Classical, Rococo, and Regency continue to inspire us today. Embrace the elegance of Georgian-inspired furniture and fabrics by carefully considering the materials, design, and iconic “Hepplewhite” or “Chippendale” styles. Choose real wood materials, as the essence of Georgian furniture lies in its rich use of oak and mahogany. In your entertaining spaces, let wooden sideboards, console tables, drinks cabinets, card tables, and glass-fronted wooden bookcases bring warmth and sophistication. Transform your kitchens or bedrooms with the grandeur of wooden four-poster beds and the graceful charm of chaise lounges with wooden legs, the possibilities are endless.