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The history of interior design

Decoration

Why we love Sunderland lustreware and where to find the best pieces

We chart the 18th-century origins of lustreware and explain why this style of metallic-glazed pottery lends itself to contemporary interpretation and continues to fire up collectors
Decoration

The value and charm that fantasy brings to an interior

Examining the inspiration we can find in ballet, opera, and theatre set designs
Decoration

The evolution of the home library

Home libraries have historically been a popular choice for houses big and small. Fiona McKenzie Johnson looks at what past and present can tell us about the possibilities for organising and displaying a book collection – and why we should retain one
Decoration

How tablescaping became a symbol of status and style

From Renaissance banquets to modern tablescapes, we take a look at how dining has always been about more than just food
Decoration

Is ‘medievalcore’ the next big thing in interiors?

Skylar Pinchal Coysh talks with Professor Suzannah Lipscomb and Brandon Schubert about the Castlecore trend, and how we have seen this before throughout history
The history of interior design

Inside the extraordinary world of Lee Miller as a new exhibition of her work opens

As a new exhibition opens at Tate Britain, we look again at Lee Miller’s East Sussex home
Decoration

The fascinating history of the White House's interiors

With the current demolition of the White House's east wing, and Trump's renovation plans now fully underway, Skylar Pinchal Coysh discusses the most defining moments of the White House’s interiors through the ages.
Decoration

The vital and enduring decorative influence of ancient Egypt

The fascinating history of our collective obsession, the boundless decorative benefits, and the sometimes surprising impact
Decoration

Maximalist decor ideas to steal from Empress Eugénie

With renewed attention on the Empress after the theft of her jewels from the Louvre, it’s worth remembering that her flair for decoration was every bit as dazzling as her diamonds
Decoration

What is a priest hole? The secret features of historic houses uncovered by interior designers

Historic houses come with a bounty of interesting features. Here are some of our favourites
Decoration

How the decorator Syrie Maugham established the quietly luxurious style known as ‘Vogue Regency’

As a collection of Syrie Maugham, the decorator known as the Princess of Pale’s belongings go on sale at Dreweatts, we look at the lasting appeal of her Vogue Regency style – and how we could harness it today
Decoration

Why folklore is having a resurgence in our interiors

Artworks, ceramics, and textiles inspired by enduring tales bring a sense of story to any home. We've gathered some beautiful examples sure to inspire
Decoration

Inside Cecil Beaton’s fashionable world, as a new exhibition opens at the National Portrait Gallery

As a new exhibition opens at the National Portrait Gallery, we look at his marvellous interiors, and the aesthetic tips we can take from them
Decoration

Why mismatched furniture is the new three-piece suite

Most of us are ditching matchy-matchy furniture in favour of a more relaxed, eclectic look. But how do we tread the line between mismatched and chaotic?
Decoration

The seven classic pieces that will always be worth the investment

From brass bedsteads to collections of blue and white china, we look at the furniture and furnishings that will always prove to be a wise purchase whatever your budget
Decoration

The decorative life of the folding screen

From imperial China to Marie Antoinette’s Versailles and Coco Chanel’s Paris apartment, the folding screen has shifted between stage set and shelter, practicality and decoration. Once overlooked, this versatile piece is ready to step back into modern life.
Decoration

Want to live like Marie Antoinette? This new exhibition at the V&A shows you how

As the V&A opens its landmark exhibition on the French Queen's style, we take a look at how we can emulate it at home
Decoration

Why everyone wants to decorate like a club

The privacy of London’s clubs has always been part of their mystique, but their influence is anything but hidden. From Annabel’s to Soho House, the club look has become one of the most powerful forces in decoration today.