UK vs USA INTERIORS: SIMILAR TRENDS OR DIFFERENT STYLES?

With the recent opening of our Los Angeles showroom, we are delighted that Clive Christian Interiors now proudly boasts three showrooms across the United States. With a significant proportion of our clientele residing stateside, we thought it fitting to reflect on the unique design preferences and trends that distinguish our projects in the UK from those across the pond.

Traditional Elegance vs Contemporary Sophistication

While every project is tailored to the unique vision and preferences of our clients, there are trends that emerge in the styles favoured by UK and US homeowners. In the UK, where homes are often much older, there remains a strong preference for timeless, traditional designs. Our Architectural Collection, with its intricate bolection mouldings, friezes, pilasters, and classical columns, is a perfect fit for these heritage properties. Its homage to traditional architectural elements appeals to those seeking a sense of refinement and historical continuity.

By contrast, clients on the US West Coast often gravitate toward more contemporary aesthetics. Here, our OPUS Collection, our first contemporary collection, continues to be popular. Its clean lines and minimalist finishes are particularly well-suited to the sleek, new-build homes that dominate this region. The result is a striking balance between functionality and contemporary sophistication that aligns perfectly with the lifestyle and architecture of these modern residences.

Transitional Style

Head of Design Oliver Deadman states, however, that a design trend has emerged on both sides of the Atlantic in favour of a transitional aesthetic. A happy medium between traditional and contemporary style it is characterised by ‘strong classical form with keyed back ornamental detailing, enhanced by contemporary facing materials such as stone, glass and metal work all create a timeless elegance.’ This trend shows that although there can of course be differences between these two markets, evolving tastes will often unite them.

Scale and Proportion

One of the most notable differences between UK and US interiors lies in the scale of the properties we encounter. In the United States the generous proportions of rooms and towering ceilings offer a remarkable canvas for design. These expansive spaces allow for bold cabinetry, grand kitchen islands, and larger-than-life statement pieces that command attention.

In the UK, though we work with a huge number of large new build homes, many properties particularly within cities date back to the Victorian era or earlier, characterized by smaller, cozier rooms, terraced layouts, and lower ceilings. Designing for these spaces requires ingenuity and precision. Our design teams excel at creating cabinetry that maximizes every inch while enhancing the perception of light and space. For instance within our recent barn conversion project, we used carefully positioned columns to draw the eye upward and selected a bright, airy palette to make the room feel both taller and more expansive.

The Role of Kitchen Appliances

Kitchen appliances play a pivotal role in defining the aesthetic and functionality of a home. In the US, large-scale appliances such as range cookers and double-door refrigerators are not only practical but also serve as bold design statements. This preference reflects both the larger room sizes and a cultural inclination toward showcasing appliances as integral design elements.

Conversely, UK homeowners often prefer a more discreet approach, seamlessly integrating appliances into cabinetry. Hidden fridges, concealed microwaves, and built-in warming drawers are among the most sought-after features, allowing for a harmonious, uncluttered appearance that complements traditional and contemporary spaces alike.

A Nation of Tea Lovers

Stereotypical it may be, but the Brits love a cup of tea and always will.  The inclusion of bespoke tea and coffee cupboards has become a defining feature of many of our UK kitchen designs. These carefully crafted spaces house everything needed for the perfect brew, from neatly organized drawers to dedicated compartments for cups, saucers, and accessories.

While coffee culture is also deeply ingrained in the United States, the approach differs. Instead of tea cupboards, American clients frequently opt for integrated coffee machines, which serve as both a practical addition and a sleek design feature.

At Clive Christian Interiors, we pride ourselves on creating designs that are as diverse and individual as our clients. Whether rooted in timeless tradition or contemporary elegance, our bespoke interiors reflect not only the architectural character of a home but also the personality and lifestyle of those who live there. Please do get in touch if you would like to discuss a project with us, we would love to hear from you.