
Image Credit: David Giles
Obsessed with The Traitors? 14 ways to get the look in your home (castle not required)
Gothic country lies somewhere between Highlandcore and dark academia decorating styles.
It’s moody, dramatic, rustic, and fun.
The Traitors interiors feature an eclectic blend of maximalism and rich character that feels completely timeless, with a side element of quirky fun.
Here’s our expert tips for incorporating the timeless gothic country elegance of The Traitors castle into your own humble abode.
Whether you’re team faithful or rooting for those in the hooded cloaks, this January has been all about The Traitors.
Of course we came for the dramatic revelations, tense round table discussions and serial coveting of host Claudia Winkleman’s signature chunky knits and kilts.
But we’ve also found ourselves checking out the show’s cosy Highland gothic interiors.
Filmed in an imposing, 19th century, Baronial-style Ardross Castle, in the isolated beauty of the Scottish Highlands, the captivating setting seamlessly blends the elegance and grandeur of quiet luxury with the moody drama of gothic country style, which dominated AW24-25 catwalks.

But what exactly is The Traitors style décor and why are we desperate to recreate the look in our homes?
“The Traitors castle has a mysterious atmosphere that is heightened by its very intentional interior design cues, which blends moody colours, heritage design and luxurious gothic elements,” explains Molly Woodward-Moor, interior designer, and creative director at Stone Superstore.
“Throughout the castle, we see bold velvet textures, stone, and rich wood, making the spaces throughout feel both grand and intimate, amplified by the use of layered lighting to create drama and intrigue.”
Molly says gothic interiors have seen a resurgence in recent months, with the style gaining increasing popularity, likely driven by the growing fascination with The Traitors.
“There’s also a broader desire for immersive spaces that evoke mystery and drama, with more people seeking comfort in aesthetics that fuel strong emotions,” she adds.
“The Traitors interior style strikes the perfect balance between cosy luxury and mysterious intrigue.”
Additionally, the trend also taps into the desire for escapism.
“With all the current uncertainty in the world, we are seeking spaces that transport us to another time, feeling or headspace, especially in our home environment where it’s important to separate external stresses from home life,” Molly explains.
In celebration of the upcoming finale, we spoke to the interiors experts to find out how to bring a slice of Scottish magic to your interiors. Castle not required.

How to get the gothic country look in your home
Go bold
The Traitorsdesign style is iconic – an eclectic blend of maximalism and rich character that feels completely ageless. “Achieving an interior inspired by the show is all about combining the dramatic, mysterious elements of gothic style with the rustic heritage of classic British country design cues that convey a sense of reliability and familiarity,” suggests Molly.

Opt for a moody colour palette
When it comes to the colour palette, go for deep, rich jewel colours like dark plum, burgundy, forest green and midnight blue which come together to create a gothic, mysterious atmosphere.
“Pairing these darker shades with warmer, natural tones like weathered wood or brown leather will incorporate softness for balance and warmth,” Molly suggests.
Sarah Bratt, interior designer at My Bespoke Room, suggests starting small with your hues. “Maybe a feature wall or a painted piece of furniture as Traitors-style hues will instantly add drama and a luxurious feel to your space,” she says.

Distressed not perfect
In terms of furniture and materials, Molly suggests filling your spaces with vintage or distressed pieces.
“Think dark wooden furniture to add character, large ornate, vintage mirrors to bring an ethereal quality to the space,” she adds.
“Add gothic artwork such as portraits, botanical prints, or landscapes in darker tones to tie in the gothic aesthetic.”

Layer your lighting
Layered lighting is also key for this aesthetic.
“Candles are a must in creating the gothic ambiance, consider choosing candlesticks and holders in black or brass to enhance the drama of the space,” Molly says.
When it comes to overhead or mood lighting, use dim, warm lighting to create an intimate and atmospheric mood.
“Think about using old-fashioned table lamps such as Tiffany lamps with darker lampshades or lantern-style lights to replicate the props used throughout the show,” Molly adds.

Discover highlandcore
Last year the experts at Pinterest predicted castle-inspired aesthetics would be hugely popular in 2025, and now highlandcore, which evokes the natural beauty of Scotland is also on the rise.
“We see more of this look in the breakfast space of the show,” explains Molly.
“This look incorporates elements of tartan patterns, stone walls and flooring, along with warm, earthy colours.”
When recreating this aesthetic, it’s all about cosiness.
“Layered textiles like woollen throws, antique-inspired furnishings, and rustic elements that bring a wilderness vibe such as dried flowers or natural greenery,” Molly adds.

Embrace vibrant velvet
Velvet is the ideal fabric for adding depth and richness to a space, and it’s beautifully showcased throughout the interiors of the show via plush sofas, heavy curtains or comfy chairs.
“From upholstered armchairs to curtains and cushion accents, this rich material enhances the gothic atmosphere while maintaining a sense of warmth and luxury,” advises Molly.

Go traditional with stone
If you’re looking to go all out on The Traitors look, stone flooring provides the perfect rugged, rustic foundation for your space.
“Natural materials are key in creating an earthy, grounded feel and stone flooring in particular works well in a hallway or kitchen, evoking a sense of old-world charm,” advises Molly.
“The natural variations found throughout natural stone floors are formed over thousands of years, ensuring your flooring is brimming with unique character and an authentic sense of history.”

Be playful with pattern
Getting experimental with patterns is another great way to bring the aesthetic of The Traitors into your home. “Patterns like plaid, damask, or even a traditional Persian rug bring depth and personality to your space,” advises interior designer Milena Vallier from My Bespoke Room.
But a little goes a long way.
“Try a plaid cushion or a patterned armchair for a nod to the look without going overboard,” she adds.

Contrast and clash your colours
There’s a juxtaposition between the very traditional, royal colours which dominate and the playful way in which they are used.
“Each room within the house differs with a bold, block use of colour, such as the rich red cabinets in the kitchen or the deep teal blue of the library,” Molly explains.
“This helps to clearly define the various rooms with each evoking a different emotion or sense of character; something that is reminiscent of perhaps one of the most original and well-moved murder mystery game boards, Cluedo.”
To apply this within your home Molly recommends decorating each room with a different base colour, depending on the mood you’re longing to achieve in that room.
“For example, deep blues are a very dependable, soothing colour known for putting people at ease and for having an overall calming effect,” she says.
“While reds suggest strength, indulgence and can even increase energy levels and social connections.”

Go big on gold
No castle is complete without a few opulent additions.
“Even with such a maximalist, eclectic interior style, there is a common thread used throughout every room in the house that ties it all together as one – gold accents,” advises Molly.
“The use of gold and brass accents feature through handles, lighting, frames fixtures and accessories give a cohesive finishing touch to the eccentric design styles of each differing space.”
Molly suggests swapping out your own cabinetry handles and lighting fixtures for a quick yet high-impact upgrade.

Have fun with quirky accessories
Accessories are where you can really notch up the fun.
“Think brass candlesticks, antique mirrors, or a stack of old books from a second-hand shop,” advises Sarah.
“These little details add charm and character, making your home feel like it has as much history as Ardross Castle itself!”
And if you love the Traitors portrait wall, why not encapsulate it in your own home with a gallery wall?
“You don’t need expensive oil paintings to get the look, simply mix prints, family photos, or even a DIY piece for a gallery wall that’s uniquely you,” Sarah continues.
“You can also experiment with the frames, visiting charity shops or vintage shops to find unique frames full of charming character.”

Choose cherry
Cherry red is a versatile and inviting colour that brings warmth and vibrancy to the home.
“The Traitors kitchen is full of cherry red accents making it an excellent colour choice for those looking to inject personality and nod to the gothic trend in a subtle but impactful way,” advises Victoria Robinson, style and trend expert at Hillarys.
“For added opulence pair it with gold accessories such as table lamps or light fittings to add vibrancy and elegance to your space.”

Try out tartan
A huge part of the gothic interior trend is using intricate patterns and elaborate textiles to create a rich and characterful sanctuary.
“Tartan is seen throughout the castle’s interior as a nod to its Scottish heritage, creating a cosy and inviting feel despite its grandeur,” advises Victoria.
The simplest way to incorporate bolder patterns into a room without it feeling too overwhelming is through soft furnishings and accessories.
“A pair of tartan curtains will add elegance and character, if you’re feeling bold, combine with scatter cushions and throws in varying textures and patterns,” she adds.

Take the look outdoors
Take the Traitors gothic country look outdoors by recreating the enchanting vibe of the castle’s iconic ‘sitooterie’.
“An awning with integrated heating and warm LED lighting will create a defined space for late night chats,” explains Victoria.
She suggests using wooden furniture with neutral tones to add warmth and complement the natural setting.
“Introduce faux fur throws, cushions and rugs make your outdoor seating more comfortable and bring country charm,” she adds.
“A circular fire pit will finish the look, creating a focal point that invites conversation.”

The Traitors: get the EXACT look
Want to buy some of the exact furnishings that were showcased in The Traitors’ castle?
Industville provided a selection of their chic lamps, helping light the interiors to Traitors perfection – including the pewter finish Ornate Ellipse Table Lamp, £159, Ornate Circle Table Lamp, £159, and the Knurled Pillar Table Lamp, £189.
Looking for more inspiration? Try The ‘Frazzled English Woman’ aesthetic: 9 ways to get the look in your home or Clever tricks to makeover your home in the time you have.
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