Serial makeover

Teja Lele Desai with design tips we can borrow from the stylish sets of five popular TV soaps

February 27, 2015 04:27 pm | Updated 04:27 pm IST

Get inspired by the sets of Downton Abbey.

Get inspired by the sets of Downton Abbey.

US Congressman Aaron Schock is in the eye of a storm following revelations that he used the free services of an interior decorator, who gave him a luxe office inspired by Downton Abbey, the popular British television period drama. He may be facing an ethics probe, but there’s nothing wrong in seeking decor tips from television series.

DOWNTON ABBEY

Downton Abbey is a Yorkshire country house where all the action takes place. The series follows the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family during the reign of King George V and we follow the decadent Edwardian décor through the grand manor. The furniture is old, heavy and dark — four-poster beds, Chippendale chairs and chunky sideboards. The walls are pastel and accented with antique frames, mirrors and sconces. The lushness is emphasised by opulent Oriental rugs, ornate chandeliers, embroidered pillows, velvety drapes with tassels and taper candlesticks.

Two ideas to steal Create a lasting first impression by investing in a show-stopping crystal chandelier. Incorporate vintage style by using mirrors with wooden frames and portrait or landscape oils.

SEX AND THE CITY

We all loved Carrie and we all loved her apartment. All her furniture has an elegant, shabby-chic appeal. The weathered paint, comfortable fabrics and mismatched chairs and tables create an appealing ambience. The rustic armchair (which she got from Aidan) gives her home a relaxed look. The desk by the window is where most of her columns were written. Carrie's fashion magazines and books are displayed, creating a space that reflects her best.

Two ideas to steal Forego the ubiquitous sidetable and place a dining chair by your bedside. Be it modern or weathered and rustic, a dining chair works with any set-up. Show off art as Carrie did by leaning paintings and murals against the wall — it lends a casual air and allows you to change art works in minutes.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S

Monica’s iconic West Village apartment was where we felt relaxed and comfortable. The open-plan apartment features two bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen, living room and a balcony and we love the fact that the kitchen and living room mesh together. The walls are purple, two vintage posters add vibrancy and drama and the furniture is inviting. Funky finds from across eras are mixed up and a variety of colours are used.

Two ideas to steal Dining chairs don’t have to match. Put together a collection of mismatched chairs and keep the fabric pattern/ colour similar to pull the look together. Add quirkiness like the not-to-be missed gold frame around the peephole for a charming touch.

TWO AND A HALF MEN

Charlie Harper may have been a bachelor but there’s nothing beach bum about his beach house. The décor seems to have been inspired by a Spanish hacienda and shows off a warm colour palette — creams, beiges and rich terracottas. The dark green sofa, vibrant throw pillows, Aztec-print textiles, functional coffee tables and lamps combine to create a lounge-like vibe. Charlie’s precious grand piano, yes, the one on which he composes jingles, takes pride of place by the patio doors.

Two ideas to steal The Mexican-style vibrant tiles that spruce up the staircase, turning a functional element into a design one. Second, make the kitchen as comfortable as you can. A small seating arrangement, smart appliances and a string of hooks to put up coffee mugs look great.

2 BROKE GIRLS

It goes without saying that this is an apartment decorated on a budget. It doesn’t work on any particular colour scheme — the walls are neutral, beige and grey (why didn’t they just go greige?), the trim is yellowish, and the floors are hardwood.

The furniture is grunge, shabby-chic with mismatched chairs and hand-me-down tables — exactly the kind that two broke girls would pick to furnish their home. The walls are decorated with lots of prints, posters, art and signs. The accessories, be it lamps, artefacts or planters, create a vintage vibe. The kitchen shows off open shelving and a bunch of magnets add colour to the retro refrigerator.

Two ideas to steal Give the bulky kitchen island the go-by and bring in an old table. It fulfils a lot of functions — kitchen island, dining area and hangout zone.

Copy Max’s idea and cover one wall with a pretty floral fabric to create visual interest at almost zero cost.

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