How To Nail Traitors-Style Interiors

The Traitors is officially back on our screens, now with a brand new celebrity twist. When you’re not glued to the dramatic missions or nail-biting round table discussions, you might find yourself checking out the show’s gorgeous Scottish setting – and, more specifically, the castle’s grand interiors. Whether your dreams involve cosying up in the library with Hamlet in-hand like Stephen Fry, or inspecting the castle’s range of medieval armour, who wouldn’t wish to live within those impressive halls?

As well as showcasing Claudia Winkleman’s impeccable style, the show shines a spotlight on some rather stunning Scottish landscapes – including the infamous Ardross Castle in which it is filmed. While the castle-inspired aesthetic has already enjoyed its time on the throne, The Traitors look has a more quintessentially Scottish feel: think medieval grandeur with a touch of countryside chic, plus plenty of tartan. Here’s how to get the look. 

Interior Design, The Traitors-Style: ‘Highlandcore’ Is Trending

Lucie Annabel

Velvet Statement Pieces

If you want to commit to a Traitors-style space, it all starts with a bit of velvet. ‘Many of the iconic sofas in the castle’s chill-out areas consist of velvet statement pieces,’ explains Chloe Barrow, interiors expert at Laura James. ‘From bright blues to striking orange tones, you simply can’t look away from these eye-catching pieces.’ Looking to invest in a statement sofa? ‘Choosing a dramatic velvet sofa or accent chair is the simplest way to add a Traitors look to your living space,’ Chloe advises. ‘If you’re looking for something a little more budget-friendly, however, velvet cushion covers are a brilliant place to start.’ 

Blood Red

However luxurious your space may be, there’s no point donning it up in shades of beige. ‘Celebrity Traitors UK is as much a visual experience as it is an entertainment one; it’s all about rich tones, texture and atmosphere,’ says Plumbs style expert Sophie Clark. ‘We’re seeing more customers embrace those darker, moodier hues this season. Think claret reds, midnight blues and olive greens layered with natural wood and candlelight to create a sense of intrigue and warmth.’

Plumbs

When opting for a colour palette, drama is essential. Hillarys style and trend expert Victoria Robinson suggests opting for bright jewel tones in order to evoke the over-the-top feel of The Traitors world. ‘Rich, dramatic colours like emerald green, royal blue and deep red instantly evoke the luxury of the castle interiors,’ she explains.

And if you really want the master the gothic look with some blood red hues, seek your inspiration from the castle’s kitchen. ‘Burgundy can be used as a bold statement through tiles or kitchen cabinets,’ explains luxury interior expert at LUSSO, Mike Whitfield. ‘The rich hue seamlessly integrates with a variety of design styles including traditional and rustic.’

Layered Textiles

For a more maximalist take on the castle aesthetic, think about pairing velvet fabrics with luxurious detailing like embellishments and fringes, notes Sarah McCann, print and product expert at Scottish-founded interiors brand Voyage Maison. ‘Consider using eclectic prints and tastefully clashing patterns in rich, heritage colours; deep magentas and royal blues can add an instant touch of opulence.’

Lucie Annabel

Whether wallpapering your room in plaid, or upholstering your furniture in heritage motifs and archival prints, for the Scottish-set Traitors, seeking inspiration from traditional country style is a must. ‘Tartan is a standout motif in the castle, offering a cosy nod to Scottish heritage,’ Victoria explains. ‘Layer it with velvet throws, textured rugs and antique-inspired accessories to create a rich, characterful sanctuary.’

Quirky Animal Decor

Another Traitors staple? Quirky decor (including the all-important peacock feather quill). If you’re really looking to nail the castle core look, try checking antique shops and flea markets for some eclectic accessories. ‘The Traitors castle is full to the brim with eccentric decor, from gigantic paintings of birds to jaguar statues, lamps with elephant bases, and even a cheetah coffee table in the lounge,’ says Chloe. ‘An easy and affordable way to get this look is by adding a few quirky ornaments to your home.’

Antique Furniture

Nothing says grandeur like oak panelling and polished mahogany furniture, and the Traitors castle certainly showcases a variety of elegant wooden pieces. ‘Incorporate antique furniture, particularly in dark wooden finishes, to provide a dramatic focal point for any space,’ advises Victoria. ‘This will also create a sense of heritage and sophistication.’ To channel the grandeur of the castle, she suggests opting for oaks and mahoganies to provide that essential heritage feel.

Plumbs

Gold Accents

No castle is complete without a few opulent additions, and it seems gold accents are particularly integral to the Traitors set; Chloe notes gold lighting options, including table lamps and chandeliers, while Mike Whitfield, luxury interior expert at LUSSO, highlights the golden design choices in the kitchen.

‘The kitchen in the Traitors castle demonstrates how you can embrace certain features of a period property but elevate it with modern fixtures and finishes, creating a well-rounded contemporary feel,’ he explains. ‘Take for example the traditional style of the stove design, arched alcove, and beige and white checkerboard floor tiles. These choices alone risk the space looking quite outdated, but they’re cleverly balanced by bringing in sleek yet cohesive details like brushed gold kitchen taps and sleek marble countertops.’

Top it all off with a few candelabras, a gilded mirror and some gold picture frames and your Traitors style is complete.