From Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings to the literary worlds of Fourth Wing and A Court of Thorns and Roses, fantasy worlds and kingdoms have long dominated pop culture. It’s no wonder that these faraway realms have begun to influence our interiors as well. Pinterest has recently predicted that “castlecore” will be one of the top trending styles in both fashion and home. Of course, plumbing and electricity are modern comforts we simply cannot live without, so instead of suggesting that you move to the English countryside and take up residence in a Tudor-era manor, we’re here to help incorporate this medieval-inspired trend while enjoying all the comforts of the modern age.
Remember: The Tudor monarchs lived vastly different lives to the Regency-era royalty, so this means that you can pick the era that works best for you. For basic styling notes, think plush, velvet upholstery, antique case pieces, and wall tapestries. Whether you’re looking to subtly nod toward this period of history or go full Joan of Arc à la Chappell Roan’s 2024 VMAs look, we have you covered. Read on for four ways to bring the castlecore trend into your home in 2025.
Hang a Tapestry
Portraits and landscape paintings were the primary forms of wall art in castles, but many grand estates also hung luxe, woven tapestries often portraying battle wins, historical moments, or scenes of everyday life. These tapestries are on the rise again, trending in all styles of homes. Take inspiration from Nate Berkus and hang one above your bed for a dramatic design moment.
Pottery Barn Greenwood Tapestry Wall Art
Fine Art Tapestries Harmony Tapestry
1st Dibs Early 20th Century Verdure Tapestry
Incorporate Moody Colors
Castles were dark all the time—and it had nothing to do with ambiance. Sturdy stone walls, minimal windows (to stay protected from enemy attack), and no electricity meant that the primary palette was quite moody. Browns, blues, and greens—all hues from naturally derived sources—were the go-to choices if you had the wealth to paint or apply dyed plaster.
Forgo Overhead Lighting
Continuing the theme of pre-technology living, overhead lighting (other than candelabra-style chandeliers) was nonexistent. Instead, handheld candles, sconces, and lanterns were used to cast light when far away from a fireplace. Even today, candle sconces add a cozy air to any room, just be sure to keep a careful watch on the unpredictable flames.
Arhaus Artemis Wall Taper Candle Holder
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Fredericks & Mae Double Armed Iron Candle Holders
CB2 Vela Blackened Brass Wall Sconce Taper Candle Holder
Make Space to Hold Court
Can you really have a castle without a court? Hosting large gatherings and political adversaries may not be your cup of tea, but you can still live the castlecore life with a dining area ready for guests. Whether you opt for an elongated dining table where you can preside over the meal at the head, or a round one like King Arthur, you don’t have to give up flatware to eat like a king.
Choose Luxurious Textiles
While performance and synthetic fabrics are now cornerstone upholstery choices of modern family living, if you’re embracing castlecore, you’ll want to take it back to the basics. Consider all-natural materials like linen and cotton, or perhaps get fancy with silks or velvets. Lavishly soft textiles are key to making your home more regal.
Arhaus Granby Chair
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Williams Sonoma Soho Roll Arm Bench (63″)
ClickDecor Finch Louis Accent Chair
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Prioritize Raw Materials
Iron, wood, and stone were the primary building materials throughout history. To level up your castlecore aesthetic, include these materials wherever you can. And it doesn’t require a gut renovation. Choose a stone cutting board, iron sconces, chandeliers, and unpainted wood for your floors and cabinetry.
Make Use of Case Pieces
Closets, built-ins, and storage of any kind were nonexistent in castles. Instead, case pieces were everywhere. China cabinets, credenzas, armoires, and trunks were widely used instead of our modern millwork. Take inspiration from the above bathroom and abandon your linen closet in favor of a cabinet with historical character.
1stDibs Original Painted Swedish Two Door Armoire
Frontgate Etienne Sideboard
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Article Mysen 35.5″ Cabinet
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