How to Achieve the Effortlessly Cool London Home Style (A Pupsi Home Guide)

Image credit Lucy Williams

London interiors have that certain something, don’t they? A mix of old and new, bold yet understated, lived-in but impeccably styled. It’s a look that’s hard to pin down but instantly recognisable. If you're wondering how to recreate that London home style wherever you are, you're in the right place.

At Pupsi Home, we call it London British, effortlessly cool. It’s layered, personal, and just a little bit unexpected. Here’s how to get the look.

1. Mix Old with New (And Don’t Be Precious About It)

London homes often reflect the city's history: Victorian fireplaces, mid-century sideboards, and modern lighting all happily coexisting in one room. The trick? Embrace contrast.

Try this:
• Pair a vintage chest of drawers with a bold, contemporary lamp
• Hang abstract art above a classic moulded mantle
• Source second-hand where possible; Facebook Marketplace and Vinterior are goldmines

It’s less about matching, more about curating.

2. Keep the Colour Palette Warm and Moody (But Add Personality)

London style doesn’t shy away from colour, but it leans into richness. Think inky blues, olive greens, soft terracottas and earthy neutrals. These shades create depth and atmosphere, especially in rooms with lower light.

But don’t forget personality. Throw in a quirky cushion, a bold rug or a statement wall. The unexpected is what makes it feel authentic.

3. Prioritise Texture Over Perfection

A true London interior feels lived-in. Worn leather, natural linen, velvet cushions, rattan, ceramics. Texture is everything. The more tactile, the better.

Quick texture wins:
• Add linen curtains for instant softness
• Layer jute rugs with wool runners
• Mix high-shine brass with matte ceramics or wood

Don’t aim for showroom-perfect. Aim for relaxed and real.

4. Let Art Tell the Story

Gallery walls are practically a London trademark. But they don’t have to be fussy or symmetrical. Lean framed pieces on mantles, mix prints with personal photos, or hang one large artwork to anchor the room.

Top tip: Buy what you love, not what matches. Your space should tell your story.

5. Function First, But Never Boring

Space in London homes is often at a premium, which means every piece needs to earn its keep. But that doesn’t mean compromising on style.

Think:
• Ottomans that double as storage
• Slimline console tables with bold styling
• Built-ins that blend seamlessly with the architecture

Function is essential, but with a little design magic, it can still look elevated.

6. Lighting Is Everything

From classic pendants to layered lamps, lighting can completely transform the mood of a space. In true London fashion, mix it up.

• A sculptural table lamp on a vintage desk
• Wall sconces for ambient glow
• Candles and dimmers for softness in the evenings

Forget overhead-only lighting. Go layered, go atmospheric.