How to Create an Egyptian Theme in Your Home

The Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt were one of the very first groups of people to enjoy interior design. They were very conscious about creating an interior that reflected their wealth and power and showcased some of the most luxurious and ornate accessories and decorating techniques in history. While we may not have a Pharaoh’s fortune we can still achieve this elegant and extravagant finish in our own home interiors in a few simple and stylish steps.

Gold! The most precious metal that the Egyptians owned and they definitely liked to show it off. From golden furniture and fabrics to shimmering golden mirrors, ornaments and urns, this metal took centre stage in any palace interior. To recreate this look in your own home opt for furniture items with gold leaf frames such as a large dining table, wardrobe or bed frame and co-ordinate with a set of gold tasselled cushions and curtains that will add to the rich and opulent finish.

For a more subtle addition place a large gold framed mirror or art work on a feature wall with Egyptian motifs such as sphinx, cats or the Eye of Horus for an authentic antique style.

The golden theme can be carried through into your paint and flooring design with a simple white, black and gold colour palette that was a popular choice for Ancient Egyptians. For smaller rooms concentrate your black colour to one statement wall and accent with gold skirting, cornices and woodwork for a subtle take on this flamboyant look.

Larger rooms can be a little more daring with large blocked walls of gold, white and black or bold wallpaper with stripes, marble effect, pyramid prints or hieroglyphs for an eye-catching and lustrous finish. For the ultimate in opulence and drama, purchase or paint a mural on your largest wall featuring an Egyptian backdrop, or a palatial frieze featuring large columns and ornate decor.

Of course no Egyptian themed home would be complete without a selection of hieroglyphics that will create visual detail in your chosen room. They perfect way to display these intricate illustrated stories is with a selection of cushions that are visually striking but will not overpower the entire interior space. Select an arrangement of cushions in classic hieroglyph designs for a subtle take on this look and combine with simple cream cushions in natural linen fabrics.

For a more glamorous design that is opulent and luxurious, opt for black and gold cushions featuring hieroglyphs or Egyptian symbols and lettering and place alongside gold velvet bolster style designs with elegant tassel detailing.

Scroll style patterns are a key design feature of Egyptian interior design and this simple yet striking motif even carried on past the Egyptians into Greek and Roman homes. This elegant pattern will look amazing on a large set of metallic embroidered curtains or makes a great feature on a plain bedding set to add visual detail whilst still maintaining a feminine opulence. This pattern was regularly seen on furniture and ornamentation in striking gold and black to emphasise the intricate lines and detail.

If you cannot find an antique or reproduction item in this style (there was a huge resurgence in this print during the art deco period) why not try your hand at updating your current furniture items by stencilling a gold scroll detail to black painted chests, tables and drawer and door fronts for a cost effective yet eye-catching finish.

When selecting furniture items for your Egyptian themed home then the more dramatic and ornate the better! Gold leaf items with curvaceous legs, fluid shapes and carvings work extremely well while chunky mahogany and walnut items featuring gold handles or inlays will give a masculine touch to this look.

Gorgeous ornate bed frames, benches and tables are a must have feature and can be complimented by adding Egyptian themed accessories such as sculpted lamp bases featuring Egyptian gods and goddesses to ornate urns, pyramids and cats that are sure to create a focal point in your chosen room. Don’t overcrowd the room but instead place statement items in specific areas where they will draw the eye, such as a mantelpiece, sideboard or lamp table.

For more ideas on introducing an Egyptian Theme into your home, take a look at our latest Pinterest board - Pinterest - Egyptian Luxury