To people, the Georgian house—be it a classic building in one of the squares of London, Edinburgh or Bath, a modest two-up, two-down terrace, or a country villa—will always be the archetypal British home. For the Georgian style, unlike many of those that followed, has stood the test of time.
Positioned proudly with a sense of calmness and composure, the Georgian house is detailed, symmetrical, and filled with light. From outside, the understated elegance is instantly recognisable, with a central door and perfectly balanced sash windows. Climbing hydrangeas and a pathway lined with lavender set the scene for decades of family stories that live inside. The interiors are balanced and refined, with a touch of understated grandeur, perfectly framed by decorative plaster coving. Soft and muted, each room is well proportioned, with timber floorboards underfoot and crystal chandeliers overhead that are always elegantly cradled by plaster ceiling roses.
Throughout this style guide, discover how to either transform your home into a Georgian-inspired space or learn how to preserve your Georgian property for many future generations to enjoy.
What is Georgian interior design?
The Georgian period covered the years from 1714 to 1830, when there were four consecutive King Georges on the throne. Georgian architecture and interiors were known for their elegance and lightness of touch. A Georgian interior is defined by its symmetry, proportion, elegance, and understated luxury. A Georgian-inspired interior should feel welcoming yet sophisticated. To achieve a Georgian style in a modern home, consider a neutral colour palette combined with classic architectural details such as plaster coving, ceiling roses, and dado rails to curate a comfortable interior that nods to the iconic Georgian era.
What are the main Features of Georgian interior design?
Georgian Interior design aims to communicate, order, harmony and grounded confidence. The style represents history, mathematical rules and quality.
| Symmetry | Throughout the Georgia period architects and interior designers believed that symmetry represented natural order and the true beauty of the universe. Add Symmetry by creating a mirror image of both sides of the room to create a calm and neat atmosphere. For lounges use a fireplace as the central focal point and for bedrooms the bed should be central. |
| Plaster Details | Typical high ceilings were decorated with plaster details such as plaster coving, ceiling roses and corbels. |
| Natural Light | The use of reflecting natural light from tall sash windows is key in Georgian Interior Design, the use of reflective paint, polished floor boards and glided surfaces such as mirrors are all intentional choices to maximise natural light |
| Panelled Walls | Panelling was used to create classic details and add a sense of balance with the use of picture rails and dado rails that add extra proportions. |
| Muted Colours | Muted colours help enhance the brightness in room. Pea green, dusty pink, sky blue and cream were popular choices. |
| Mathematical rules | Fundamental when creating perfect proportions, symmetry and rooms where you can move around freely. |
| Rich Textiles | Velvet, silk, cashmere and tapestry were often layered to add a touch of subtle grandeur. |
What colours are used in Georgian Style Interiors?
A Georgian style interior should feel elegant and inviting, muted colours create a sense of calm and can easily bounce the light around the room. Sage greens, warm creams and dusty blues will make a room feel peaceful whilst deep tones like charcoal grey, soft navy and moss green will add mood without absorbing the light.
What defines a Georgian-style home?
Classic details, strict symmetry and balanced proportions are key when creating a Georgian style interior When considering Georgian Interior design, designers often work tendency for more muted colour palates, don’t be afraid of strong and vibrant colours, found traditionally in Georgian properties.
What architectural details are common in Georgian Interiors?
Plaster Coving and Ceiling roses details are essential when creating a Georgian-inspired interior. They elevate any space, particularly those inspired by a bygone era. Coving creates a sense of order and helps to perfectly proportion a room. When choosing a cornice design, opt for a profile with a touch of symmetry to communicate balance, while a ceiling rose—whether large or small—creates a striking focal point that naturally draws the eye.
What is the difference between Georgian & Victorian Interiors?
Georgian homes (1714–1830) and Victorian homes (1837–1901) are easily distinguished by their distinctive design principles. Both are iconic British architectural styles, yet they differ significantly in their approaches to decoration, colour and proportion.
Victorian style is defined by richness, ornamentation and a celebration of individuality, whereas Georgian interiors focus on symmetry, light and order.
Is Georgian interior design still popular today?
Yes, Georgian Interior design is absolutely still popular today with it's classic and inviting appeal. Both interior designers and DIY enthusiasts pull inspiration from the defining principles to create calm and balanced spaces.
How do I create an Georgian Inspired Interior in a modern home?
By following the key features of Georgian Interior Design with the thoughts of peace and symmetry in mind, to simplify:
- Use your fireplace to create a focal point and build a mirror image around it using furniture to create thoughtful balance and order.
- Add plaster coving to enhance symmetry and elegantly frame the space the use of a plaster ceiling rose will also add a majestic focal point for the fourth walls.
- The use of picture rails will add balance and soft grandeur
- Keep colours muted to create a calm and inviting atmosphere that also maximises light.
For Interiors Inspired by Georgian Elegance and Symmetry, We Recommend:
Ceiling Roses:
- LPR049 - features a central display of finely modelled peacock feathers, surrounded by an outer fan design for balance.
- MPR038 - Not too plain, not too ornate—just the perfect balance.
- LPR020 - The perfect symmetrical centre piece that will sure be a conversation starter.
Coving:
- MPC078 - Clean lines with an elegant curve for a versatile finish.
- LPC021 - Will create ornate detailing and add a touch of subtle grandeur.
- LPC030 - This iconic 'Swan Neck' profile reflects the light perfectly and add subtle shadows.