We’re interior experts – from tartan to metals, here’s how to nail Scottish-style trends from The Traitors castle
FAN-FAVOURITE show The Traitors is filmed at Ardross Castle in the scenic Scottish Highlands.
The stunning 19th-century castle is situated around 25 miles north of Inverness and serves as the backdrop for contestants’ intense battle to win up to £120,000.
Its rich colour palette, gothic features and period finishes make this the perfect setting for mystery and drama, as well as interior inspiration for many.
And for those in love with the castle’s aesthetic, interior experts have revealed how to achieve the look in your own home.
Here’s their five top tips…
Opt for Tartan
A key element of the castle’s design is its use of tartan, a pattern that is steeped in tradition yet highly adaptable.
Amy Wilson, interior designer for 247 Blinds, says: “Tartan prints have had a revival as people turn to more traditional and nostalgic elements to make the homes feel more cosy and inviting.
“This classic pattern is one that has a timeless quality and can elevate a traditional scheme as well as provide interesting contrast in a more contemporary home.”
There are a number of ways to blend tartan prints and patterns seamlessly into your existing interior space, but it’s important you choose the right colour ways that will complement the rest of your room.
Amy adds: “If you have light and neutral tones in your existing decor, you can make a statement with any statement tartan fabric in darker shades.
“Consider the bolder and more traditional colour combinations such as, contrasting reds and greens taking inspiration from the regal Balmoral tartan.”
Incorporate metal accents
Metallic finishes also play a significant role in Ardross Castle’s dramatic and opulent aesthetic.
Paul McFadyen, chairman at metals4U, emphasises how these accents enhance the grandeur of a space.
He says: “These metallic finishes instantly help to elevate your space by enhancing a sense of luxury with their timeless feel.
“The strategic use of metal gold and brass accents helps to achieve a blend of classic elegance and modern style.
“Not only that, metal hardware like door handles, cabinet knobs, and keyhole covers, are the perfect way to bring historical and ornamental character to a space.”
The use of metal in decorative ornaments also adds to the castle’s distinctive character, bringing a quirky yet sophisticated aesthetic.
Blending old with new
The Traitors’ kitchen has become one of many iconic rooms for scheming and devising.
But in addition to this, it is also a beautifully designed space fit for socialising and the perfect inspiration for those who like to use their kitchen to host.
Mike Whitfield, luxury interior expert at LUSSO, describes the clever balance achieved in the design.
He says: “The Traitors’ Castle kitchen is a masterclass of how you can embrace certain features of a period property, but elevate it with modern fixtures and finishes to create a well-rounded contemporary feel.
“Take for example the traditional style of the stove design, arched alcove, and beige and white checkerboard floor tiles.
“These design choices alone risk the space looking quite outdated, however, they have been cleverly balanced by bringing in sleek yet cohesive details – such as their choice of light fixtures, brushed gold kitchen tap and countertops.
“The marble countertops, for example, are a staple in luxury kitchens, providing a clean and elegant surface that oozes grandeur.
“Whilst marble can sometimes feel quite modern, it is also timeless because it’s a natural material and it blends seamlessly with the decor around it, bringing the kitchen to life and adding brightness.
“Opting for marble is a foolproof way to uplift a space, especially if it features dark rich colours, such as the deep red cabinetry seen in the castle’s kitchen.”
He adds: “The best kitchens are those that are entertainment friendly without sacrificing functionality.
“The large central island is ideal for encouraging people to sit around and socialise, however, it also has practical benefits such as the sunken storage area and kitchen sink, making it a multi-use space.”
Embrace Highland themes
Sarah McCann, print and product expert at Scottish-founded interior destination Voyage Maison shares her insight on how to embrace Highland themes in your very own home.
“When creating a Scottish Highland-inspired theme, there are several ways to embrace this look based on your home style”, she explains.
“If your home features maximalist design choices, you might want to capture the drama of the Highland landscape.
“Consider using eclectic prints and tastefully clashing patterns in rich, heritage colours. Deep magentas and royal blues can add an instant touch of dramatic luxury. Incorporate embellishments, fringes, and luxurious fabrics such as jacquard or velvet, and you will have achieved the look beautifully.”
If you prefer a more subtle approach, consider adopting a more classic and natural country style.
Sarah adds: “Try layering understated tartans or floral prints with country life motifs in a muted and light colour palette, which celebrates Scottish heritage and the beauty of the outdoors.
“Think of dusty pinks, warm creams, and earthy sage greens, all inspired by cottage life.
“You can introduce this style through subtle accessories, such as printed sofa cushions or lampshades, helping to create an inviting and cosy atmosphere reminiscent of the show The Traitors.”
Tension building lighting
Finally, Marlena Kaminska, designer at ValueLights weighs in on how The Traitors cleverly uses lighting throughout the castle to manipulate the mood of the contestants.
She says: “For peak intensity moments like at the roundtable, where the tension can be cut with a knife, the lighting is kept low and uses warmer tones, to establish an air of mystery for all the drama to unfold.
“The lights are focused directly on the roundtable, with the rest of the room cloaked in darkness. Perfect for creating a pressurised environment and highlighting every movement, like Linda’s infamous head turn.
Sarah reveals that pendant lights or chandeliers hanging overhead are amazing for adding drama – creating a “central spot” like a dining table.
She cotinues: “They look great too, which is always a bonus.
“Table lamps dotted around the room also work well to highlight little corners for sneaky conversations, especially if they’re dimmable to maintain the intense atmosphere.”