Image Credit: Industville
Why Rivals interiors are the nostalgic decor trend we didn’t see coming
Pull back the poofy curtains, pour yourself a Babycham and prepare to welcome back the 80s in all its shoulder-padded, hair-gelled, vol-au-vont-ed glory.
Yep, Rivals has returned, and Rutshire is ready to misbehave all over again.
Naturally, we’re itching to find out what happens next between Rupert Campbell-Black, Taggie O’Hara and Cameron Cook, whether Tony Baddingham is actually alive and can keep his grip on Corinium, and just how much slapstick, scandal and social climbing one fictional Cotswolds town can take.
But while the power plays and illicit affairs are reason enough for us to tune in, we’re equally as invested in the show’s interiors.
From glossy finishes and chintzy corners, to well-stocked drinks trolleys and country club polish, Rivals taps into a very specific kind of nostalgia: the childhood homes of floral sofas, glass cabinets and “best room” formality, all elevated with a touch of country club chic.
“The Rivals’ aesthetic is unapologetically confident,” Kunal Trehan, interior designer and founder of Touched Interiors says of the hit show’s decor.
“It’s rooted in 1980s affluence, where interiors were designed to impress rather than retreat, with high-gloss finishes, rich colour palettes, and a sense of theatricality.
“There’s a boldness to it, but also a refinement, it’s not kitsch, it’s curated glamour.”
Kunal says the look is resonating right now because it offers an antidote to years of pared-back minimalism.
“We’re seeing a shift away from overly neutral, ‘safe’ interiors,” he explains.
“People are craving personality again.
“The Rivals look delivers escapism; it feels luxurious, expressive, and slightly indulgent, which is exactly what many homeowners are leaning towards right now.”
Of course, having an appreciation for the nostalgic maximalism the show showcases doesn’t necessarily mean we want to bring back 80s homes in their entirety.
But interiors insiders say there is a way to channel the look without turning your abode into a full Rivals fan-home.
“The Rivals aesthetic works best when you take the mood of the era, for example tailored glamour, bold choices and quality materials, but interpret it in a more contemporary, restrained way,” explains Victoria Robinson, style & trend expert at Hillarys.
“Think classic foundations with moments of drama layered in.”
So how exactly do you get the Rivals aesthetic in a modern, stylish way?
We asked the interiors experts to share their best tips for channelling a little Rutshire romance – zero scandal required.
Embrace rich, layered colour
The Rivals colour palette is typically classic, rich and understated.
“Neutral tones such as warm whites, soft creams, taupes and light greys provide a timeless foundation, while deeper shades such as burgundy and navy are often used to add sophistication and contrast,” explains Mike Whitfield, luxury interiors expert for Lusso.
Designers also frequently incorporate colours associated with traditional country estates, including forest green, navy blue, burgundy and chocolate brown.
“These deeper hues work particularly well on cabinetry or panelled walls,” Mike continues.
“To maintain balance, the palette is usually softened with natural materials and warm metallic accents, such as aged brass or brushed gold, ensuring the space feels refined rather than overly formal.”
Kunal agrees deep greens, oxblood, navy, and warm neutrals create an unmistakable 80s depth.
“The key is layering; walls, upholstery, and accessories should all contribute to a cohesive richness,” he adds.
Incorporate some country club core
For those who want to nod to the Rivals aesthetic without going full Rutshire time capsule, country club core offers the perfect middle ground: polished woods, tailored stripes, plush seating, brass accents and just a whisper of polo-club privilege.
According to Mikecountry club style interiors are rooted in heritage elegance, understated luxury and traditional craftsmanship.
“The aesthetic draws inspiration from historic British estates and private members’ clubs, blending classic architectural details with comfortable, refined furnishings,” he explains.
In kitchens, Mike says the style is typically defined by shaker cabinetry, marble worktops, aged brass hardware and traditional style taps.
“Open shelving, glass-front cabinets and statement pendant lighting also help create a layered, timeless look,” he adds.
For bathrooms, the focus is on classic fixtures and high-quality materials.
“Stone baths, traditional toilets and elegant vanity units often act as focal points, paired with marble surfaces, warm metallic finishes and soft lighting to evoke a sense of quiet luxury,” Mike adds.
A Rivals-esque bedroom prioritises comfort and sophistication.
“Upholstered headboards, plush bedding, layered textiles and neutral colour palettes create a restful yet refined environment, often complemented by antique-style furniture or heritage-inspired lighting,” Mike adds.
“Within living spaces, the aesthetic leans towards traditional wood furniture, panelled walls and carefully curated accessories such as books, artwork and statement lighting.
“The aim is to create rooms that feel welcoming, lived-in and effortlessly elegant rather than overly styled.”
Try some power decorating
After years of demure decorating, power interiors are having a resurgence, with 80s‑inspired maximalism stepping boldly back into interiors.
“The era’s sense of ambition, glamour and theatrical flair is returning as people are embracing more confident, character‑filled spaces,” explains Daniel Smith, Founder of Danetti.
“We are increasingly drawn to expressive, refined designs that build atmosphere through rich colours, sculptural shapes, high‑gloss finishes and tactile upholstery.”
Daniel says statement sofas, moody corner lighting and layered pendants all help create depth and drama.
“By mixing velvets with smoked glass, chrome accents and warm, directional lighting, maximalism becomes both dramatic and liveable,” he adds.
“The Rivals television series is built around image, ambition and the performance of perfection,” Daniel continues.
“What makes the aesthetic so fun to bring into the home is its confidence, its boldness, glamour and the essence of not being afraid to play.
“This era was known for its sculptural shapes, unexpected colour pops and pieces that spark conversation.
“The interiors in Rivals remind us that entertaining should feel effortless and joyful, so create spaces that invite people in and encourage them to stay is crucial.”
Shiny statement lighting
According to Mara Rypacek Miller, founder of Industville, a handful of elevated, eye-catching pieces are all it takes to design a space that feels as if you’ve stepped into the film set of Dame Jilly Cooper’s ‘Rivals’.
“To emulate the show’s signature 80s aesthetic, but with a contemporary twist, consider using bronze, brass and gold accents in lighting,” she says.
“These materials not only add a touch of the era’s glitz but also diffuse a golden glow reminiscent of the show’s warm film filter.
“Repeat the use of these materials throughout the room in furniture and other hard finishing to create cohesion, and tie it all together with a rich colour palette in soft furnishings.”
For lighting silhouettes, Mara says sculptural pendant lights and floor lamps with bold, clean lines and elegant curves suit this aesthetic beautifully, adding a sense of glamour to elevate the look.
Daniel agrees that chrome was a hallmark of 80s luxury.
“When utilised through lighting it becomes a real statement, giving a room a polished, high‑energy feel,” he explains.
“When you combine chrome lighting with gloss finishes, you get a home that feels vibrant, confident and ready for a good time, which is exactly the spirit of the show.”
As well shiny statement lighting, Kunal says it is important to layer your light sources. In other words ditch the big light.
“Forget a single overhead light,” he advises. “Use table lamps, wall lights, and ambient lighting to create depth and a slightly moody, intimate feel.”
Continue the shiny surface theme
Kunal says high-shine finishes are an essential element of the Rivals aesthetic.
“Whether it’s a lacquered console, polished wood cabinetry, or even subtle gloss paint, these elements reflect light and instantly elevate a space.”
But the look really comes together when you mix materials with confidence.
“The Rivals aesthetic thrives on contrast: marble with brass, glass with velvet, dark woods with soft textiles. It should feel considered, but never overly restrained.”
Invest in statement furniture
Statement furniture is another easy route into the Rivals look: bold, confident pieces that feel made for grand entrances, dramatic exits and whispered conversations over drinks.
“This era was about presence,” explains Kunal.
“A sculptural sofa, a bold coffee table, or oversized armchairs can anchor the room and give it that sense of importance.”
Kunal also suggests adding a touch of drama, but sparingly.
“A mirrored wall, a striking piece of art, or a dramatic curtain can nod to the era without overwhelming the space,” he says.
“It’s about suggestion, not replication.”
Pay attention to window dressings
Window dressings are one of the easiest ways to set the tone.
“I always come back to double pinch pleat curtains for this look,” advises Victoria.
“They’re structured, elegant and inherently timeless, which means they give you that sense of luxury without feeling fussy.”
In rich fabrics like satin, velvet or heavyweight linen blends, Victoria says these materials quickly elevate a room.
“Keeping them floor‑length and well‑proportioned is key, this is about confident fullness rather than frill,” she adds.
For a slightly sharper take, tailored headings like wave curtains can also work beautifully, especially when paired with bolder colours or stripes.
“Roman blinds are another great option, particularly in dining rooms or studies, where you can showcase a statement fabric without overwhelming the space,” Victoria continues.
“A deep green stripe, a glossy chintz or even a subtle geometric can bring in that country‑club feel in a more controlled way.”
Mix the old and new
Mixing vintage-inspired pieces, heritage prints and country-house details with cleaner lines, contemporary colours and modern finishes keeps the aesthetic nostalgic without feeling too stuck in the 80s.
“Pairing traditional shapes – rolled‑arm sofas, dark wood furniture, classic florals – with high‑gloss finishes, chrome details or smoked glass creates that subtle tension the era is known for,” Victoria advises.
“It’s polished, but not predictable.”
Julia Bilotta, creative stylist at Sofology agrees this blend of new and old helps create a look that feels both timeless and refined.
“The ‘Rivals’ aesthetic captures a comforting sense of familiarity, reimagined through a softened minimalist lens with a touch of modernist luxury,” she explains.
“Clean-lined sofas with wooden feet, paired with chrome and glass accents and layered soft textures, create the perfect balance for an elevated 1980s feel.”
Make your home guest-ready
To really embrace the Rivals mood, your home should feel ready for guests at a moment’s notice, whether that’s for cocktails in the drawing room, a dramatic dinner party, or someone arriving with gossip before they’ve even taken off their coat.
“Living rooms should feel ready for conversation,” Victoria says.
“Oversized seating, sculptural lamps and a considered drinks moment, whether that’s a bar cart or a beautifully styled sideboard, instantly give a room that ‘deal‑making’ energy.”
Dining spaces can lean more into the private members’ club feel, she says, with moody wall colours, velvet or leather chairs and statement lighting that pools warmth over the table.
Don’t overlook finishing touches
Finishings are where the Rivals glamour really comes through.
“Mirrors, polished brass, reflective ceramics and glossy surfaces catch the light and add confidence to traditional schemes,” Victoria explains.
“When it comes to pattern and accessories, this is the time to be generous – bold florals, stripes and sculptural pieces all have a place here.
“Rivals interiors aren’t about restraint; they’re about layers, character and a sense that the room is meant to be lived in and enjoyed.”
Want more inspiration? Read: Devil Wears Prada interiors: 12 ways to channel Miranda Priestly at home And check out All set for a Kennedy summer? 12 ways to get the Love Story look in your interiors
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