If we think of textiles today we maybe have a misguided view of looms and weavers hunched over in a country like fashion. However if we do think in these terms we might be forgetting the humble beginnings of interior design product beginnings of everyday articles which we now take for granted such as cushions, throws, wallpaper, rugs, carpets and accessories.

William Morris developed to became one of the giant interior designers of the late 19th century whose work influences a multitude of styles and designers working today. He was born in London and went to study in Oxford, embracing all things hand made from an early age. He loved the romantic periods of art and design, being influenced by his contemporaries producing modern masterpieces such as Ophelia by Sir John Everett Millais and other artists.

William Morris combined his passions for architecture and religion in what he felt the romantics of the time were trying to embody, however dipping in and out of politics throughout his life left him with enemies as well as socialist friends and collaborators.

His interior design work revolved around his monolithic themes of repeating patterns and quickly he began to design wallpapers and textiles which were made using traditional and aging techniques. He dyed his papers and silk materials and printed fabrics using traditional wood block techniques. His carpet, wallpaper and other designs are still being manufactured and sold today, albeit generally not using the original production methods. His work is available to see in some of the most influential arts and crafts houses and his aesthetics were felt all the way over to Europe and beyond with Barcelona born Gaudi adopting his flair.

Morris was an influential interior designer whose work inspires us today. His range and palette suggest an interior laced with floral beauty, if you aspire to a tranquil romantic setting with warm and rich yet earthy colours his interior design style is the choice for many. Think simplistic lines on the floors, curvy movements on the walls, hanging textiles and textures in natural or low lighting. If this sums up your living space then we recommend sourcing William Morris inspired interior design products and textiles.

We hope you enjoy this please read more about interior designers here at interior design trends. We think it is important to know the history of interior design before progressing with fitting out our homes in order to avoids some of the pitfalls of modern fads!