The equestrian aesthetic is an enduring design trend that artfully combines the rustic charm of the countryside with refined, modern sensibilities. This style draws inspiration from the world of horseback riding, encompassing everything from the raw beauty of the stable to the sophisticated allure of the hunt club. With its roots in aristocratic traditions and its appeal to lovers of the pastoral lifestyle, the equestrian aesthetic has found its place in interior design. Here it offers a perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and timelessness.
What is Equestrian Aesthetic?
The equestrian aesthetic reflects a deep appreciation for nature, animals and the outdoors. It embraces a palette of rich, earthy colours, natural materials and textures that evoke the essence of the countryside. Think of worn leather, polished wood, weathered metal and soft woollen fabrics. This aesthetic often features elements reminiscent of a stable or a hunt club, such as bridles, saddles, riding boots and vintage equestrian artwork.
But the equestrian aesthetic is not just about rustic charm. It also incorporates a sense of luxury and sophistication. This is where the elegance of the English countryside comes into play – think antique furniture, ornate mirrors and rich textiles like velvet and tweed. The balance between these contrasting elements – rugged and refined, rustic and luxurious – is what makes the equestrian aesthetic so captivating.
The Foundation of Equestrian Design
One of the most critical aspects of achieving an equestrian aesthetic in interior design is choosing the right flooring. Dark oak laminate flooring is an excellent choice for this style. Its deep, rich tones evoke the warmth and natural beauty of aged wood, while its durability and ease of maintenance make it a practical option for modern living spaces.
Dark oak laminate provides the perfect backdrop for an equestrian-inspired room, grounding the space in earthy, natural tones. It complements the leather upholstery, wooden furniture and metal accents that are hallmarks of this style. Additionally, the textured surface of laminate flooring can mimic the look of hand scraped wood, adding a layer of authenticity to the overall design.
Embracing Earthy and Neutral Tones
The colour palette of the equestrian aesthetic is firmly rooted in the natural world. Combining rich, earthy tones with refined, neutral accents.
Deep chocolate brown and cognac cam serve as the foundation; reminiscent of high-quality leather and polished saddles, adding warmth and luxury. These tones are complemented by warm taupe and creamy beige, which provide a soft, neutral backdrop, balancing the deeper hues.
To evoke a connection with nature, deep forest green and sage green are incorporated, offering a sense of calm and freshness. Accents of burnt sienna and terracotta then introduce a warm, earthy pop of colour, while cool slate and charcoal greys add modern sophistication. Finishing touches of antique brass and matte black metallics bring a refined elegance, tying the palette together with a polished, cohesive look.
Balancing Rustic and Refined
When selecting furniture for an equestrian-inspired space, look for pieces that combine both rustic charm and refined elegance. Leather is a key material in this style, so consider incorporating leather sofas, armchairs or ottomans. The worn, lived-in look of leather adds character and warmth to a room, while its durability ensures it will age beautifully over time.
Wooden furniture is another essential component of the equestrian aesthetic. Go for pieces made from solid wood, preferably in darker finishes, complementing your dark flooring. Farmhouse-style tables, antique dressers and wooden chests are all excellent choices that evoke the pastoral charm of the countryside.
To add a touch of sophistication, consider including a few refined elements. Think about a polished brass chandelier, a velvet-upholstered armchair or an ornate mirror. These pieces should be used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the space!
Bringing the Theme to Life
The devil is in the details when it comes to interior design and the equestrian aesthetic is no exception. Incorporating equestrian-themed decor is an excellent way to reinforce the overall theme and create a cohesive look.
Start by adding artwork that reflects equestrian life – think vintage prints of horses, hunting scenes or country landscapes. Equestrian-themed sculptures, such as horse busts or statues, can also add a touch of elegance to the room. Consider framing old leather saddles or using riding boots as decorative elements. These items not only serve as conversation pieces but also help to establish the theme in a subtle yet impactful way.
Textiles also play a crucial role in this aesthetic. Woolen blankets, tweed cushions and plaid throws add texture and warmth to the space. Choose neutral or muted colours that complement the earthy tones in the room.
Creating the Perfect Ambience
Lighting is another critical element in creating an equestrian-inspired space. The goal is to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels both cosy and luxurious. To achieve this, consider using a combination of ambient, task and accent lighting.
For ambient lighting, a statement chandelier in a rustic or vintage style can be a stunning focal point. Wall sconces with brass or wrought iron finishes add a touch of old-world charm, while table lamps with leather or fabric shades offer a softer, more intimate light.
Task lighting is essential for areas like reading nooks or desks. Select floor lamps with adjustable arms or desk lamps with leather-wrapped bases to keep the equestrian theme consistent.
Finally, accent lighting, such as picture lights or spotlights, can be used to highlight equestrian artwork or decorative elements. These subtle touches of light draw attention to key features while adding depth and dimension to your space.
