Botanical wallpapers by Miller Harris

Floral patterns are generally something I stay away from as I often find them fussy and old fashioned even when many designers have given them a more contemporary twist. However, the new wallpapers by my favourite perfumer, Miller Harris, in collaboration with wallpaper designer Karen Beauchamp, of wallpaper company Cole & Son, take beautiful 18th century botanical illustrations and classic designs such as the damask and update them in the form of simple repeats and flashes of colour. Of the 3 different prints developed all available in three different colour ways my favourite has to be the triple sea fig (below), the delicate florals set in a simple graphic repeat and offset against a muted dusky yellow backdrop; perfect for bringing colour and the illusion of light and warmth in a small space or basement flat with little natural light. 


I was reminded of the buttery yellow used in the famous 'Yellow Room' originally created in the 1950's by Nancy Lancaster and John Fowler, of Colefax & Fowler, one of the foremost English decorating firms of the 20th century. Colefax and Fowler have recently recreated this iconic room with the help of the World of Interiors editor, Rupert Thomas, photos of which can be found in the December issue of the magazine along with a sensitively written article not just about the visual appearance of the room but Nancy Lancaster personality which are intrinsically linked. 


For further reading on Nancy Lancaster and her work it is worth taking a look at the richly illustrated title, 'Nancy Lancaster. English Country House Style' by Martin Wood. You can purchase it at this link: http://www.pottertonbookslondon.com/epages/BT4004.sf/en_GB/?ObjectPath=/Shops/BT4004/Products/384

Triple Sea Fig

Pomflower Damask

To view the full collection of Miller Harris wallpapers or order a sample visit: www.millerharris.com or to experience the wallpaper in situ visit the Miller Harris tea room at the flagship store on Bruton Street, Mayfair.