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3. Tropical inspired furnishings. During this time, the solid and formal designs of the Victorian era were ultimately adapted to accommodate more tropical locales. Carved pineapples, lattice work and turned elements were carved into woods and used alongside bamboo, rattan and leather accents. The pieces took their inspiration from the tropics but retained elements of British formality with dark woods and turned elements. Get this look: Classic cane chairs are an easily accessible furniture piece that can help you get the British Colonial look in your home. Try using a chair or two as an accent in a modern room, or immerse yourself in this style by matching a chair with side, coffee and sofa tables.
2. Lightweight and eclectic fabrics. Collectors who helped create this style traveled all around the world, bringing back authentic textiles from Asia, India, Africa and the Caribbean. Botanical prints, paisleys, ikats and animal prints in lighter weight cottons and linens were in heavy demand. Get this look: Mix and match throw pillows for an eclectic, world traveled look. Hang flowing cotton or linen treatments on windows and bed frames for soft, filtered light. You can even suspend lightweight fabrics from your ceiling for a little romance.Shop decorative pillows
1. Campaign furniture. Motivated by the romance of exotic travel, many British Colonial furnishings were specifically designed to collapse into manageable, travel-ready pieces called campaign furniture. Folding mahogany chairs, writing tables, collapsible beds and liquor cabinets were just a few items that could easily be stored away in a steamer trunk, ready to ship off to the next location. Get this look: Today's reproduction campaign furniture mimics the collapsible forms of the past (although often without the function). Choose pieces with classic criss-cross legs in clean lines and dark woods, such as the desk in this image. Thrifted objects — such as old trunks or suitcases — can emulate this well-traveled feel, too.
4. Natural texture. Texture is king (or queen) with British Colonial design. Caning, rattan, reed and sisal were often used to add an interesting contrast against traditional darker furniture. Get this look: Woven window shades, rugs and wallpapers can all help add depth, interest and texture to your space. Look for natural fibers, such as rattan, jute or sisal. If redoing an entire room feels intimidating, start by papering a focal wall or a framed panel to put behind a vignette.
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