Regal interiors are rich in history, spanning centuries and monarchies. Over the last couple of years, however, they have served as design inspiration for our own houses (even though most of us don't call a palace home).
Since 2020, it has been Regencycore (thanks, Bridgerton), and with the popularity of The Traitors, it has now transitioned into Castlecore – a design trend that embraces all the opulence of storied palaces, from their luxe materials to their medieval structural features.
With Google searches for Castlecore surging 929 percent in the last 3 months, it is inevitable that this is a style we will be seeing everywhere. Interested in trying it out for yourself? We've broken down the trend into elements so you can recreate a look worthy of royalty.
1. Elegant Seating
When we think of castles, we think of drawing rooms, and as such, we imagine luxe sofas and embellished seats that almost look too beautiful to sit in.
'The Traitors is everywhere at the moment, and while fans enjoy the drama and betrayal, they are also drawn to its iconic castle interiors,' says Paulina Wojas, Interior Designer at Stunning Chairs. 'The perfect example of a vintage-modern piece is the notable gold, velvet buttoned accent chair for the player interview room.'
'This vibrant piece is the room’s focal point and has a traditional feel that complements the castle’s interiors. The chair’s bright-rich color ties nicely with the room’s dark tones and wooden features for a stylish and sophisticated look. The aesthetic is completed with whimsical decor, such as a pineapple table lamp and an ornamental skull for an eclectic effect.'
2. Antique lighting
Candelabras and castles are practically synonymous; as the main source of light pre-electricity, candles not only provide illumination in a home but can look elegant and refined when placed in candelabras, as a centerpiece for a dining room.
Alternatively, many chandeliers and wall sconces come fixated with the classic, tapered white candle silhouette, blending the familiar piece with a unique base. Opt for an antique, brass chandelier with candle fixtures for optimal castle-esque ambiance.
The Barclay Butera Wilshire Wall Candle Sconce is a throwback to the old candle holder sconces of previous times, a feeling enhanced by the pretty iron hardware. The mirrored glass also adds a vintage touch.
This durable and timeless wall sconce would fit perfectly into an antique home. The look of candles, without the weak glow and the fire hazard.
The bold black and soft curve of this mounted wall sconce serves as the perfect base against a straight, cream, taper candle. If you want to be safe, choose LED candles that will 'burn' safely forever all evening.
3. Dramatic headboards
A statement headboard is a major focal point in the bedroom, and as such, is a great way to transform a space from minimal to regal-centric.
'Layer your space with velvet cushions, heavy curtains, and jewel-toned bedding,' suggests Andrew Seed, Managing Director at The Odd Company. 'For the pièce de résistance, choose a statement bed with a velvet upholstered headboard or a dark wood frame to accentuate the room's moody elegance.'
We would be remiss not to mention canopies, which are a fixture in castles real and imagined in storybooks.
'Try mixing and matching classic French country pieces—think canopy beds, intricate carved wood accents, and plenty of stoneware—with antiqued pieces and upscale heirlooms for a regal and timeless look,' says Kathy Kuo, designer of Kathy Kuo Home.
4. Dark woods
Handsome and timeless, dark woods are a fixture in styles of yore like dark academia, and their place is Castlecore is not to be underestimated. An oak chest of drawers or even reclaimed wood floorboards contribute to the antiquated feel of a space thanks to its natural finish and unique details.
5. Extravagant ottomans
First introduced in Europe via Turkey, ottomans radiate energy, especially those upholstered in velvet and/or tasseled. There are plenty of ottoman ideas: place one at the foot of your bed as a makeshift seat, or opt for one that includes storage space to make it completely functional in addition to beautifully decorative.
Nothing says opulence like velvet and tassels – and at under $150, the price is right on this vintage-inspired piece.
Skirted furniture is going to be big in 2025, and adds that sense of elegance that castlecore is all about.
With a spacious storage compartment to fit blankets, throws, toys, books or seasonal items, this classic button tufted design is elegant and versatile.
6. Ornate wallpaper
A castle-inspired room wouldn't be complete without an ornate wallpaper to set the mood. We are partial to subtle statement-makers like chintz and toile, but a simple maroon or deep brown would suit the style, too.
While these styles may have once felt dated, there are plenty of ways to make trad prints work in chic spaces without feeling fussy. Try selecting a color from a chintz pattern and incorporating it into contemporary accessories in a space for a more relaxed feel.
For those who want an authentic look, we recommend scouring antique and vintage shops and auctions for unique pieces in mixed metals and rich textures, such as velvet and faux fur. The beauty of decorating with vintage pieces is that their antiquity actually ensures their longevity – when you invest in high quality, luxe pieces, all of which make up the foundation of Castlecore, you can feel confident that you have decorated in a way that is both trendy and timeless.
