Celtic Decor: With a Fresh, Contemporary Twist.

I used to associate Celtic décor with the mystical fairy art of the ‘80s, but after living in a Celtic region for years and exploring local archaeological sites and museums, I’ve gained a whole new appreciation for the culture. The Celts’ use of natural forms and flowing, non-linear geometric designs was a major influence on Art Nouveau, and their artistry continues to inspire me. Recently, I took a Celtic pottery course—ironically on Saint Patrick’s Day—which got me thinking about how to incorporate Celtic influences into modern design with a fresh, contemporary twist.

source: Terra Termarum Castrolandín

Celtic pottery from this region has a distinctive blackened appearance, almost resembling metal. These pieces came in a variety of shapes and sizes, serving practical purposes like cooking and food storage. Made from locally sourced clay, they were often adorned with intricate motifs inspired by nature, reflecting a strong biophilic influence. Their signature charred look comes from a slow, traditional firing process—first dried around the fire, then gradually buried in hot coals and covered with soil, where they would bake over several days.

Celtic Decor Pottery Ideas

This elegant, rustic pottery is an easy way to bring a touch of Celtic charm into your home. Style a jug with a beautiful water reed arrangement on a side table, mimicking the thatched roofs of traditional Celtic homes. For an elegant, rustic touch, place a handled cooking pot by the fireplace for a cozy, old-world feel, or add character to your kitchen with a Celtic-inspired fruit bowl. Even a simple clay pot with a lush green plant can bring beautiful texture to your shelves!

Celtic Decor Rug Inspiration

Source: Museo Arqueológico Municipal de El Raso

In the Celtic Castro, evidence suggests that vertical looms were used to create textiles. The warp threads (vertical threads) were tied to clay or stone weights, which kept them taut. These weights had one or more holes where groups of warp threads were secured with rope.

Once the warp was in place, weaving started at the top, with the weft threads (horizontal threads) carefully woven through. A spatula was used to push each new row upward, gradually forming the fabric. Both plant fibers like flax and animal fibers like wool were used, allowing for the addition of color and intricate geometric patterns.

To get that cozy Celtic dwelling vibe, go for textured wool and natural fiber rugs. Think mid-century modern area rugs, wool Berber, or 100% wool pieces. Handmade Ukrainian carpets, felted rug throws, and Hutsul carpets all add that perfect touch of rustic charm. Basically, anything with a rugged, homespun feel will bring the look together beautifully.

Wall Art

Source: etsy.com

I know a Celtic roundhouse, with its low walls and high ceilings, probably wouldn’t have had wall hangings—but we’re not aiming for historical accuracy here! The goal is to capture that cozy, stone-hut, hygge-like vibe. Think natural fibers—chunky wool weaves mixed with plant-based textiles. It’s all about embracing a raw, rustic feel—perfection isn’t the aim; the more rugged and imperfect, the better!

Celtic Decor Style Prints

Source: etsy.com

Obviously, placing a massive stone boulder with a Celtic carving in your living room isn’t exactly practical—or legal! Instead, these abstract prints are beautiful reproductions of the ancient carvings found on the Newgrange passage tomb in County Meath, Ireland. Displayed as a set, they add an elegant and meaningful touch to any wall.

Celtic Decor Style Cushions

Source: etsy.com

I can’t quite picture the rugged Celts lounging in their stone roundhouses with plush, down-filled cushions, but if they did, I’d bet they’d go for chunky woven wool in earthy greys, creams, and browns. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to cozy up by the fire with a comfy cushion and a warm cup of goat’s milk?

Celtic Decor Lamp Inspiration

Electricity wasn’t exactly a thing in the Iron Age, so I doubt the Celts were too concerned with creating the perfect layered lighting scheme. But since I’m styling my own cozy roundhouse-inspired space, I’m all in! Think a chunky, tiered driftwood lampshade for ambient light, some dark pottery accents, and raffia table lamps for task lighting. As for accent lighting—yeah, that might be pushing it a bit too far!

Let Your Imagination Run wild

To nail the Celtic-inspired look, go for deep black walls reminiscent of the soot-covered interiors of ancient roundhouses. Balance the darkness with a cozy cream shaggy sofa, piled high with plump, rustic woven cushions. Add warmth with a textured wool rug—Lithuanian styles are perfect for this. Think dark ceramics, rugged wooden furniture, and lamps with plant-fiber or woolen shades paired with charred ceramic or weathered wooden bases. Honestly, anything with a raw, rustic feel works! Most of my favorite finds for this style came straight from Etsy.