William Morris Wallpaper Design in Upstairs Hall / 1939 Home

William Morris was an influential designer from the early 20th Century, Arts & Crafts and Art Nouveau periods. His patterns are timeless, and I am seeing renewed interest in his designs today.

The original pattern (top photo) was very similar to the new selection. But it had been damaged by some home renovations. And the color had dulled over the years and looked dingy. I have started to strip the paper off the wall.

Second photo shows the wall prepped and ready for wallpaper.

Third photo shows the finished wall. I centered the pattern so it would give a balanced effect as one walks into the room.

The pattern is called “Willow Boughs” by Morris & Co. It has a nice “raised ink” texture to it. It is printed on what we call a “British pulp” substrate. It’s a classic, but rather old-fashioned material. Reminds me of the pages in the old family Bible. Somewhat brittle and stiff, and can tear easily, even when simply trimming with a sharp razor blade. And some pastes can stain papers like this.

The home is in the Rice University area of Houston.