In a celebration of British heritage, Little Greene proudly introduces the much-anticipated ‘National Trust Papers IV,’ the fourth chapter in their series of authentic wallpaper designs inspired by National Trust properties in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
This versatile collection comprises eight meticulously curated historic wallpaper designs, thoughtfully adapted and recoloured across an impressive 42 colourways, ensuring their seamless integration into modern homes.
A Tapestry of History: Collaboration with the National Trust
Little Greene’s collaboration with Europe’s largest conservation charity goes beyond mere design.
Each wallpaper in this collection is a careful reinterpretation of original patterns discovered in various National Trust historic houses, with one exceptional design resurrected from the depths of the Little Greene archive.
These patterns collectively span over 250 years of British decoration, with a contemporary twist introduced through a thoughtful selection of colours.
Printing Techniques: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
The collection showcases an array of printing methods, from traditional surface printing to cutting-edge digital machines.
This diverse approach brings to life a stunning variety of designs, featuring exotic birds, stylised florals, scrolling trails, ditsy print florals, and large-scale tropical murals.
The employment of these techniques ensures the preservation of the intricate details that make each design a testament to the rich history it represents.
Little Greene’s Creative Director, Ruth Mottershead, expresses her deep appreciation for the collaboration with the National Trust. She remarks, “Working with the National Trust to uncover and revive these incredible historic designs is a real honour for us all at Little Greene.” Mottershead highlights the enduring freshness and relevance of designs dating back to 1770, stating, “Showcasing these historic patterns in their new colourways in contemporary spaces and modern design schemes has reinvigorated them, ensuring they can be enjoyed for years to come.”
Becky Stanford, Head of Brand Licensing at the National Trust, commends Little Greene’s ability to bring the prints and patterns from their care to life for the modern home. She notes, “In one collection, they’re able to shine a light on a wide range of designs and styles, drawing out how nature has always been a source of inspiration.” Stanford emphasizes the importance of collections like these, not just for homeowners’ joy but also for supporting the maintenance of inspirational places under the National Trust’s care.
Supporting Conservation: Every Roll Counts
One distinctive aspect of Little Greene’s commitment is their contribution to the National Trust’s vital work through the sale of every roll of wallpaper.
This support directly aids the National Trust in caring for 500 places, including 780 miles of coastline, historic sites, and vast expanses of countryside. The collaborative effort ensures the thriving coexistence of people and nature, both now and in the future.
The much-anticipated ‘National Trust Papers IV’ collection recently launched on Monday, 22nd January 2024. Let’s delve into a preview of some standout designs that encapsulate the essence of British heritage.
Aderyn – Erddig c. 1770: A Glimpse into 18th Century Elegance
This design, originating from Erddig in Wales in the late 18th century, showcases a hand-painted Chinese wallpaper adorned with exquisite birds and flowers. The contemporary adaptation, available in five glorious colourways, pays homage to the interconnectedness of opposites with subtle nods to Chinese philosophy.
Capricorn – Early 19th Century: Reviving Romantic Landscapes
Inspired by historic early 19th-century panels, this hand-repainted mural captures idealised landscapes of the time, featuring monkeys and tropical birds. With three colourful variations, it promises to inject dynamism and interest into any modern interior, offering a visual journey into the romantic and exotic.
Bamboo Floral – Kingston Lacy Estate c. 1790: A Panoramic Reimagination
Based on fragments of Chinese wallpaper found at Kingston Lacy Estate, this design takes us back to the 19th-century trend of importing Chinese wallpapers. Reshaped into a repeating pattern, it boasts a contemporary pop of colour in five fresh colourways, preserving the panoramic flow of the original.
Spring Flowers – Standen House c. 1910: Arts & Crafts Elegance
Reflecting the Arts & Crafts movement, this design from Standen House in West Sussex features a small floral pattern inspired by spring flowers. Coloured in six differing ways, it pays homage to the period’s stylised representations of nature, bringing a touch of elegance to modern interiors.
Great Ormond Street c.1890: Colourful Parrots from the Archive
Revived from the Little Greene archive, this colourful parrot motif, based on a multi-layered group of papers, adds a playful touch to contemporary spaces. With seven surface-printed colourways, it maintains a connection to its 19th-century roots while bringing vibrancy to the present.
Burges Butterfly – Knightshayes Court, Devon c. 1878: Charming Gothic Revival
Designed by William Burges, ‘Burges Butterfly‘ adorns the walls of Knightshayes Court in Devon. Faithfully reproduced in five contemporary colourways, this charming paper reflects Burges’s passion for medieval European and Asian-influenced design, offering a delightful link to the past.
Mosaic Trail – Fellbrig Hall c. 1885: Aesthetic Movement Beauty
With its floral trail and tonal variation, this design likely originates from the late 19th-century Aesthetic movement. Reproduced in four smart, graduated colourways, it mimics a tiled mosaic, achieving an informal finish with subtle shading effects, showcasing the enduring appeal of historical design.
Ditsy Block – Felbrigg Hall c. 1900: Floral Lattice Unveiled
Discovered at Felbrigg Hall in Norfolk, this floral lattice design, found in an unexpected attic location, is a testament to historical intrigue. With six contemporary colourways, it authentically reflects its original woodblock-printed manufacturing method, adding a touch of heritage to modern interiors.
In conclusion, Little Greene’s ‘National Trust Papers IV’ collection stands as a testament to the seamless integration of history into contemporary design. By reviving and reimagining historic patterns, this collaboration with the National Trust not only brings joy to homeowners but also contributes to the preservation of Britain’s cultural and natural treasures.
This collection will leave an indelible mark on the intersection of heritage and modernity.
