Bullerswood Wallpaper

William Morris’s Bullerswood wallpaper is one of the most opulent and richly layered designs in the Morris & Co.collection. Though it was inspired by Morris's aesthetic, it was actually designed by J.H. Dearle, Morris’s protégé and successor, around the early 20th century. The wallpaper is named after Bullerswood, a house in Kent furnished by Morris & Co., and the design reflects the full flourish of the Arts and Crafts movement in its later stages.

Design & Motifs:

  • “Bullerswood” is a sumptuous floral tapestry, overflowing with intertwining foliage, stylized blossoms, and scrolling acanthus leaves.

  • The design features a dense arrangement of large-scale flowers—often including tulips, poppies, and carnations—which interlock with swirling vines and structured foliage.

  • The leaves are heavily stylized, curling and twisting in rich, decorative rhythms that evoke the Renaissance and medieval textiles Morris adored.

  • Unlike Morris’s earlier, more restrained patterns, “Bullerswood” is bold, theatrical, and baroque in feel, while still staying grounded in natural forms.

Pattern Structure:

  • The layout is symmetric and repeating, yet the density of the detail gives it a continuous, immersive quality, more like a woven tapestry than a flat wallpaper.

  • It often gives the impression of a luxurious wall-hanging, perfect for rooms seeking a touch of historical grandeur.

  • Though maximalist, the pattern has balance and flow, avoiding visual chaos through its rhythmic repetition and masterful composition.

Colorways:

  • Traditional Morris & Co. palettes for “Bullerswood” include deep reds, ochres, sage greens, indigo blues, and warm neutrals.

  • Modern reissues also explore softer or moodier tones—like pewter greys, dusty pinks, or midnight blues—to suit a range of interiors.

  • The layered use of color adds depth and richness, with shading that gives a sense of three-dimensional texture.

Historical Context:

  • Though not designed by Morris himself, “Bullerswood” is completely in line with his vision, and J.H. Dearlewas highly respected for continuing the Morris tradition with his own flair.

  • The pattern reflects the late-stage Arts and Crafts movement, where designs became more lavish and ornate while still celebrating handcraft and nature.

  • Originally designed for woven textiles, “Bullerswood” was later adapted for wallpaper, bringing its textile-like opulence to interior walls.

Mood & Setting:

“Bullerswood” creates an atmosphere of warmth, luxury, and timeless elegance. It’s perfect for:

  • Dining rooms or libraries where richness and drama are welcome

  • Historic homes or Victorian interiors

  • Feature walls that deserve visual impact

  • Spaces styled in traditional English or maximalist decor